Program Overview

Artificial Intelligence in Criminology BSc (Hons)

Course Description

On this course, you will consider the ethics, opportunities, and threats presented by artificial intelligence (AI). You'll review how machine learning and automated technologies will impact our future world. Scientists are looking at how AI can be used to predict patterns of reoffending, how we track crimes and criminals around the globe, and how AI can be used for safer and more reliable sentencing of criminals. You will be at the cutting edge of this new field.

You'll tackle ethical dilemmas such as who is legally responsible for artificial intelligence and what happens when there is an AI crime, such as a collision with a driverless car. We will consider this in the real world and in the virtual environment, and consider what these developments mean about the nature of crime.

This course will position you at the cutting edge of this graduate job market. You will graduate with the skills, knowledge, and expertise to maximise the opportunities that this new technology will provide.

The use of artificial intelligence in criminology is a contemporary issue. It is used to help analyse crime and criminal data and make informed decisions on strategy and policy. It can also improve processes in the Criminal Justice System.

Study Options

• Full-time: 3 years
• UK fee: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
• UCAS points: 120 (September 2025 entry)
• UCAS code: I4ML
• Start date: September
• Location: Kedleston Road and Markeaton Street, Derby Campus

What You Will Study

Year 1

• Logic and Discrete Mathematics
• Programming
• Ethics and Artificial Intelligence
• Digital Skills for Artificial Intelligence
• The Criminal Justice System
• Crime, Justice and Society

Year 2

• Core modules:
  • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Data Science and Analytics
  • Criminology and the Justice System
  • Research Methods in Criminology
• Optional modules:
  • Cybercrime and Digital Forensics
  • Intelligence-Led Policing
  • Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism

Year 3

• Core modules:
  • Artificial Intelligence and Ethics
  • Criminology and the Justice System
  • Research Project in Criminology
• Optional modules:
  • Forensic Psychology
  • Youth Justice and Crime Prevention
  • Transnational Crime and Global Justice

How You Will Learn

Our teaching methods consist of:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Practical sessions
• Group working

How You Are Assessed

A variety of assessment methods are used. Some modules are assessed through coursework only, others by a combination of:

• Coursework
• Portfolios
• Presentations
• Examinations
• Case studies
• Teamwork projects
• Computer testing and examinations

Careers

We are aware of the rapid pace of change in the dynamic AI and criminology field and are committed to helping you develop a valuable set of skills which are attractive to a wide range of employers nationally and internationally.

Our Criminology graduates have gone on to diverse roles in the police, Crown Prosecution Service, courts, probation and prison services, youth offending teams and other law enforcement agencies.

Entry Requirements

• UCAS points: 120
• A Level: BBB
• T Level: Merit. T Level in Science required.
• BTEC: DDM
• GCSE: GCSE Maths and English Grade 4/Grade C (or above) or equivalent qualification
• Access to HE: A minimum of Distinction: 15 credits, Merit: 24 credits, Pass: 6 credits.

Fees and Funding

• UK: £9,535 per year (2025/26)
• International: N/A

Additional Costs and Optional Extras

We're committed to providing you with an outstanding learning experience. Our expert teaching, excellent facilities and great employability prepare you for your future career. As part of our commitment to you we aim to keep any additional study costs to a minimum. However, there are occasions where students may incur some additional costs.

• Included in your fees:
  • DBS check if required for research purposes
  • We may offer a study trip if applicable and appropriate
  • Local trips to visit criminal justice organisations (e.g. courts, police stations) and virtual studios
  • Access to online learning materials.

How to Apply

Please look at our application deadlines before you apply.

• UK students: Apply through UCAS or directly to the University.
• International students: Apply directly to the University.

Research Areas

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Data Science and Analytics
• Criminology and the Justice System
• Cybercrime and Digital Forensics
• Intelligence-Led Policing
• Terrorism and Counter-Terrorism
• Forensic Psychology
• Youth Justice and Crime Prevention
• Transnational Crime and Global Justice

Facilities

• Computer Lab: home to our specialist hardware facilities and software access, including Python, Visual Studio, Unreal Engine, Unity, Apache, PHP, MySQL, Azure Cloud Services and DirectX/OpenGL as well as our data cave and visualisation suite
• Replica crown court: provides a practical learning space where you can take part in activities like moot court
• Custody Suite: practice in a replica modern-day police station setting including a booking-in desk, a cell and interview rooms.

Data Science Research Centre

The Data Science Research Centre (DSRC) is based in the University’s STEM Centre at Markeaton Street. It features high-performance computing facilities and a state-of-the-art Data Visualisation Laboratory. The centre aims to play a leading role in the region and nationally in research.