BSc (Hons) Criminology and Sociology

Overview

This course provides students the opportunity to study the transformations of the social world from a sociological perspective linking it with the theoretical and empirical debates regarding issues inherent within Criminology. As such this joint programme will help students develop a range of sociological and criminological knowledge of society which they can apply using appropriate concepts, theories and approaches.

Employers value the qualities and skills of Criminology and Sociology graduates, and most students find suitable work within a short time of graduation. A number of students also go on to study at postgraduate level.

Typical employers include local and central government, the Police, The National Probation Service, HM Prison Service, Youth Offending Service, education authorities, further and higher education institutions, and charitable, counselling and voluntary organisations.

Content and Modules

First year modules 

• Social Science Research Skills (C)
• Key Thinkers in Criminology
• Law for Criminologists
• Sociology and the Modern World
• Core Sociological Dichotomies
• Understanding Social Change

Second year modules

• Quantitative Data in Social Science (C)
• Qualitative Data in Social Science (C)
• Criminological Theory and Social Control
• Criminal Justice Systems
• Social Theory

With a choice of 1 module from: 

• Sociology of Health and Illness
• Globalization

Third year modules 

• Research Dissertation (C)
• Applied Studies (C)
• Contemporary Issues in Criminology

1 (if only 1 sociology option is chosen) from: 

• Penology
• Human Rights
• Victims of Crime

With a choice of 1 or 2 modules from:

• Gender, Sexuality and Culture
• Technology and Society
• Sociology of Sport
• Sociology of Law

Teaching methods combine teacher led and student led activities and include lectures, seminars, small group work, workshops and tutorials.

Further Information

All modules are assessed and a range of assessment methods are used, including structured essays, reports, case studies, critiques, reviews and formal examinations.