WHY STUDY THIS COURSE?

Criminology is the scientific study of criminal behaviour; you will study crimes, criminals, victims of crime, the justice system, punishments and much more! This course will enable you to use theories of criminality to analyse criminal situations and make recommendations for policy. You will also develop the knowledge and skills to research policy in practice, assess campaigns for changes in awareness of crime and examine information to review verdicts in criminal cases.

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

The BTEC Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology gives you the opportunity to explore the criminal justice system and understand why crime happens in society.

You will study topics such as:

• Criminological Theories – examining different explanations for criminal behaviour.
• Types of Crime – exploring categories like white-collar, cyber, and violent crime.
• Law and Punishment – how the legal system works, including courts, policing, and sentencing.
• Crime Prevention – strategies used to reduce crime and protect communities.
• Investigative Skills – analysing evidence and learning how criminologists research
  and evaluate crime patterns.

The course combines practical and theoretical learning, with coursework based on real-world scenarios, giving you the skills and knowledge valued by universities and employers.

Students may also have the opportunity to participate in work experience or  enrichment activities that relate directly to criminology, enhancing both understanding and employability.

How will I be Assessed?

There are 4 units in total 

• 2 internally assessed units (Controlled assessment) 
• 2 externally assessed units (Exam)

Year 12

• Unit 1 – Changing Awareness of Crime (Internal)
• Unit 2 – Criminological Theories (External)

Year 13

• Crime Scene to Courtroom (Internal)
• Crime and Punishment (External)

Where can it lead?

This course is ideal if you plan to move onto university to study courses such as:

• Criminology 
• Criminology and Criminal Justice 
• Criminology and Psychology 
• Law with Criminology 
• Criminology and Sociology 
• Psychology and Sociology 

The careers relevant to criminology include: 

• Employment with the criminal justice system 
• National Probation Service
• Courts and Tribunal Service 
• National Offender Management Service