Course Overview
Are you interested in why people commit crimes, how criminals can be rehabilitated, and the role of the justice system? This two-year course enables you to combine a study of criminology, law and either sociology or psychology, equipping you with the knowledge and skills you need to enter the criminal justice sector – from policing and investigation to law and government. The course enables you to develop a critical understanding of how punishment works, the application of law, rehabilitation of criminals, and the role of society and individuals. You will gain an understanding of why people commit crimes, how offenders can be rehabilitated and the process of capture and prosecution. You will also get an insight into the English legal system and develop your critical thinking skills in relation to real cases. If you choose to study sociology, you will evaluate sociological theories and examine power, control and responsibilities within society. If you choose to study psychology, you will develop an understanding of psychological approaches and applications, focusing on health and criminality while also carrying out your own psychological research.
What will I learn?
Within this course, you will study for three qualifications – criminology, law and either sociology or psychology – each of which is equivalent to one A-Level.
You will study a variety of units including:
• Crime and punishment
• Criminal law
• Social inequality
• Forensic psychology
• Changing awareness of crime
• Applying the law
• Crime and its effects on society
Study, Assessment and Qualifications
You will study for three qualifications which are each equivalent to one A-Level: WJEC Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology; BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Law and BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Psychology.
You will be assessed through a combination of internal and external assessments.
Entry Requirements
3 GCSEs at grade 4, including Maths and English Language at grade 5.
Additional Costs and Information
You will be expected to wear the criminology and law uniform, which will be provided at the beginning of your first year. There will be a variety of course trips to relevant organisations such as the Houses of Parliament and law courts.
