Program Overview

Introduction to the FdSc Public Services and Criminology Program

The FdSc Public Services and Criminology program is offered by the University Centre Somerset College Group, in partnership with the University of Plymouth. This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the public services and criminology, preparing them for careers in these fields.

Program Details

• UCAS Course Code: L437
• Institution Code: B70
• Duration: 2 years
• Course Type: Full-time, with a part-time route available
• Study Location: Bridgwater and Taunton College

Course Structure

The program is structured into two years, with core modules in each year.

Year 1 Core Modules

• Introduction to the Criminal Justice System: This module introduces the concept of the criminal justice system, including policing and justice by consent.
• Public Services and Society: This module explores the theoretical concept of human need and its translation into social welfare policy.
• Crime in Context: This module examines human behavior in relation to crime, exploring why people commit crimes and the needs of victims.
• The Mind of a Criminal: This module delves into behavior theories, social diversity, and the impact of technology on crime.
• Government and the Public Services: This module introduces the political structure of the UK and its relationship with public services and society.
• Personal Development: This module emphasizes the importance of continued personal development, providing students with research tools and skills for structured reflection.

Final Year Core Modules

• Theory, Culture, Crime and the Public Services: This module examines the theory informing culture, crime, and public services, considering the methods and use of data collection in relation to society.
• Ethics in the Balance: This module reviews the concept of society, morals, and ethics, exploring how these inform and define justice.
• Understanding Leadership: This module develops an understanding of established leadership theory in public services, contemporary leadership challenges, and the application of leadership principles.
• Organisational Performance and Change: This module evaluates organisational structures, cultures, and factors affecting these, with a focus on public services and relevant theory.
• Research Skills in the Public Services: This module provides the opportunity to develop research skills, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation.
• Victims, Victimology & Restorative Justice: This module aims to give students knowledge of the impact of crime on victims and explores methods of supporting victims and the use of restorative justice.

Fees, Costs, and Funding

For information on fees and funding, students should contact the partner college directly, as this course is delivered by one of the University's partner colleges.

How to Apply

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service), requiring the UCAS course code and institution code.

Progression Routes

Completing this course enables students to progress onto related courses and programs with the University of Plymouth, such as the BSc (Hons) Community and Public Service Management.

Partnership with University Centre Somerset College Group

The University of Plymouth has developed partnerships with institutions to make higher education more accessible. The partnership with University Centre Somerset College Group allows students to enroll for a degree at a partnership institution, offering specialist degrees, unique facilities, and competitive pricing.

Studying with Bridgwater and Taunton College

Bridgwater and Taunton College is an award-winning Beacon College, known for its achievements and chosen by students from over 35 countries for their education. The college provides a supportive learning environment and access to facilities and services, including membership in the University of Plymouth's Students' Union.