BSc (Hons) Criminology and Youth Studies

Overview

Students develop a questioning and critical approach to the understanding of criminal behaviour, young people and society. Students also gain skills in analysing theories and evidence, and applying research methods to develop knowledge.

Employers value the qualities and skills of criminology and youth studies 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 (Core)
• Key Thinkers in Criminology
• Law for Criminologists
• Introduction to Youth Studies
• Sociology and the Modern World
• Understanding Social Change

Second year modules

• Quantitative Data in Social Science (C)
• Qualitative Data in Social Science (C)
• Criminological Theory and Social Control 
• Youth Justice
• Youth Culture and Identity

With a choice of 1 module from:

• Child Law
• Young People and Social Policy
  

Third year modules

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

1 (if only 1 youth studies option is chosen) from:

• Penology
• Human Rights
• Victims of Crime

With a choice of 1 or 2 modules from:

• Comparative Youth Studies
• Youth and Development: Selected Issues

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.