Program Overview

Criminology and Sociology BA

Course Overview

How are societies organised? How and why are certain kinds of behaviour categorised as ‘crime’, and how should we respond? What has been the influence of the digital age on our society?

You’ll address questions like this on our joint honours BA Criminology and Sociology, by studying a variety of modules from both subjects. You'll get to explore how society works both locally and globally. You’ll think about the causes of crime and how societies attempt to control it.

With a wide range of optional modules, you can tailor your degree to your interests and career aspirations. Interested in policing, gender, social media, cults, or migration? With our degree, you'll gain a unique perspective on these topics and more.

Take part in the placements scheme for hands-on experience, putting your knowledge to the test in the real world. And why stop there? You can gain a global perspective by studying abroad in locations such as the Netherlands, Singapore, or the USA.

Whether you're looking to make an impact in the public, private or voluntary sector, our course will equip you with the tools you need to succeed. Come and unlock your potential - your future career awaits.

Why Choose This Course?

• Ranked 7th for social policy and 10th for criminology in the UK in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025
• Tailor your degree to your career aspirations through a wide range of optional modules
• Study abroad opportunities in locations such as the Netherlands, Singapore or the USA
• Gain real experience as part of our placements scheme
• Award-winning teaching - teaching often recognised by awards such as the University Chancellor's Award for teaching quality
• Diverse career options - our graduates develop successful careers across the private, public and charitable sectors, including local government

Key Information

• UCAS Code: 1L22
• Duration: 3 years full-time (available part-time)
• Fees: £9,535 (UK undergraduate students)

Course Structure

• Year 1:
  • Criminology: Understanding Crime and Victimisation
  • Introduction to the Criminal Justice 'System' in England and Wales
  • Investigating Social Worlds
  • Social Science Uncovered 1
  • Social Science Uncovered 2
  • Understanding Contemporary Society
• Year 2:
  • Classical Sociological Theory
  • Contemporary Sociological Theory
  • Contemporary Theories of Crime, Justice and Society
  • Research Design and Practice (Qualitative Methods)
  • Research Design and Practice (Quantitative Methods)
  • Optional modules (e.g., China Beyond the Headlines, Controversy: Experts, Post-Truth and Fake News, Crime Stories: Crime, Justice and the Media)
• Year 3:
  • Dissertation
  • Optional modules (e.g., Analysing Public Policy, Contemporary Developments in Welfare Policy, Crimes and Harms of the Powerful, Cults and New Religious Movements: Power, Belief and Conflict)

Teaching Methods

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Masterclasses
• Workshops

Assessment Methods

• Coursework
• Essays
• Examinations
• Presentations
• Dissertation

Careers Overview

A degree in criminology and sociology can provide a solid foundation for work in local or national government, or in voluntary associations engaged with the social issues deriving from criminal behaviour. You could also pursue a criminal justice career, in the police, prison or probation service.

Graduate Destinations

Our criminology and sociology degree can open doors to a career in various sectors including government, criminal justice, law enforcement, law practice and community safety.

Recent graduates are now working with the Youth Justice Board, Ministry of Justice and other governmental departments.

Job Prospects

• Average starting salary: £29,197
• Career progression: 85.70% of undergraduates from the Faculty of Social Sciences secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.