Criminology
Course Video
What will I study?
The Diploma includes elements of psychology, law and sociology, and it fits well with other humanities and social sciences subjects. Students study four units:
- Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime
– Analyse different types of crime
– Explain reasons and consequences of unreported crime
– Media representation of crime - Unit 2: Criminological Theories
– Social construction of criminality
– Biological, individualistic and sociological theories of criminality
– Use of these theories to inform policy development - Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom
– Investigative techniques
– Requirements of the Crown Prosecuting Service
– Key influences affecting the outcomes of criminal cases - Unit 4: Crime and Punishment
– Processes used for law making
– Social control and punishment
– Agencies involved in social control
The focus of the course is on students developing their skills of independent learning and development, problem solving, project based research, development and presentation, and apply learning in vocational contexts.
How will I be assessed?
The Diploma offers an attractive assessment pattern, with two of the four units (Units 1 and 3) being internally assessed via controlled assessments. Units 2 and 4 are assessed by external exam.
Students are typically assessed on Units 1 and 2 in the first year, and Units 3 and 4 in the second year, much like the former modular AS/A2 structure of A levels.
Where does the course lead?
Most students take the Diploma alongside A levels or vocational qualifications, for example in law, public services, or health and social care. It has the same UCAS points as an A level subject.
The main purpose of this qualification is to support access to higher education courses, such as
- BSc Criminology
- BA Criminology and Criminal Justice
- BSC (Hons) Criminology and Psychology
- LLB (Hons) Law with Criminology
- BA (Hons) Criminology and Sociology
- … and more
To find out more: https://www.wjec.co.uk/qualifications/criminology/