Integrated Foundation - Bachelor of Science (Honours) - Criminology

The BSc (Hons) Criminology with Foundation Year provides an in-depth exploration of the causes and consequences of crime, the ways in which crime is measured and defined, and how criminals are managed and controlled. The programme offers insight into the challenges and dilemmas faced by criminal justice professionals across policing, courts, prisons, probation services, youth offending teams, and victim support organisations. Strong links with practice, including the HM Prison Service, Youth Justice Board and local police constabularies, enhance the practical relevance of the course. Students have the opportunity to tailor all final-year modules to align with specific career aims and interests.

Criminology as an academic discipline opens pathways into a wide range of careers that can have a meaningful societal impact. The programme examines major philosophical debates surrounding retribution, rehabilitation and punishment, exploring why people commit crimes, how laws are created and enforced, the effectiveness of sentencing and punishment, and the broader social impact of crime on victims, communities and society.

The degree integrates perspectives from sociology, law, psychology and philosophy, encouraging creative thinking, critical analysis and the development of individual research interests. A strong emphasis on problem-based learning equips students to address real-world challenges in the justice system. Throughout the course, investigative, management and communication skills are developed through activities such as group work, negotiation, decision-making, research and argumentation.