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Program Overview
Course overview
Criminology covers what crime is and how it is defined by the law and public opinion. As a Criminology student at Keele, you will build your awareness of a range of different perspectives and explore why it is important to think about crime, its impacts and how it could be prevented in future.
You will research the theoretical explanations to understand the motivations for criminal behaviour and the subsequent investigation process. You will consider the many factors that may influence a person to commit crime such as socio demographic issues, peer groups and culture. You will evaluate how these influencing factors may differ internationally, for example, what is perceived to be a crime and the way it is controlled and dealt with by authorities across the globe.
Throughout the course you will explore the different methods used to collect and analyse criminological data and develop a robust understanding of the consequences associated with crime. You will also be encouraged to question whether outcomes are reasonable and effective to control crime within society.
Work Opportunities
Work Placement Year
On this course, you will have the opportunity to opt for a Work Placement Year in the School of Social, Political and Global Studies between Year 2 and 3. This will allow you to apply your knowledge and practical skills in a workplace environment enabling you to build key skills in communication, teamwork and project management. You will be able to demonstrate your abilities and creative thinking, working with fellow professionals as well as independently.
You will be supported by staff in your preparation to apply for a work placement that suits your interests and career prospects. This opportunity will allow you to develop both personally and professionally during your studies which will assist you in your employment after university.
Working for Justice
Our ‘Working for Justice’ Year 2 module gives you the opportunity to explore careers in criminal justice or related fields. You will explore the work of professionals in the police force, prison service or youth service and related professions. You will also have the chance to network with visitors and guest speakers, providing insight into their career.
You will learn how to craft a compelling CV, cover letter and job application which will form the basis of your assessment for the module which focuses on employability beyond your studies. This will enable you to demonstrate your expertise for a particular area.
Study Abroad
International Year
Enhance your career prospects with an International Year at one of our partner institutions. Utilising this opportunity between your second and third year can help in your employment search to stand out from the crowd and broaden your horizons, potentially working across the globe.
On successful completion of all modules across the year, you will graduate with a degree title ‘Criminology with International Year’. This can be highly beneficial for your career prospects and through experiencing different cultures; you will not only grow as an individual, but you will also strengthen your knowledge and interests within society. You can find more information here.
Alternatively, you may choose to study abroad for just a semester in your second year which will count towards your second-year grades. Our Global Opportunities team will support you through the process, ensuring you are able to get the most out of your international experience.
USA week visit
You may wish to study abroad for a short period and this opportunity allows you to spend a week in the United States. You will engage with various activities during your visit to gain an understanding of the function and role of criminal justice agencies in the USA.
Your time in the US will also involve talks from law enforcement agencies where you will gain insight into various careers and hear from professionals in the field. This is a useful experience to learn how the law operates in a different country and explore different cultures across the globe.
During this time, a group of students from the US also come to visit Keele University.
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