Course summary

Are you interested in why people commit crime? Do you want to explore what society does to reduce offending? Criminology combines sociological and psychological approaches to understanding deviant behaviour and society’s response to criminal acts. You’ll explore a wide range of topics, from examining the role of the media in how we understand crime and justice, to explanations for serious violent crime by both individuals and the state. We’ll look at ethical issues arising from historical and cultural differences in the definition and management of crime, as well as how to understand people at the margins of both society and criminal justice, such as women and young people. Experience is crucial, so you’ll put theory into practice on your professional work placements. You’ll benefit from our links with local criminal justice agencies and other networks, which will give you the chance to gain degree-relevant work experience. By the time you graduate, you’ll have a thorough knowledge of how the Criminal Justice System works, including how society is policed and individuals are punished. Using the key theories and practices of criminology, you’ll also develop critical thinking skills that will enable you to ask key questions about crime, deviance and social control. Professional work placements Our students have completed placements in a wide range of roles and organisations, including forensic hospitals, HM Prison Service, the Police National Computer, Leeds City Council anti-social behaviour projects, crime prevention projects, charities that support ex-prisoners, the homeless and drug and alcohol abusers, and educational providers for children with behavioural problems. Graduate opportunities A Criminology degree opens doors to a wide range of careers across the Criminal Justice System, including police, prison and probation services. Your degree will also prepare you to work directly with offenders, as a probation officer or prison services officer, or in a more analytical role, such as a data analyst for HM Prison and Probation Service or local government.