BTEC in Criminology

Course summary

This course will enable students to use theories of criminality to analyse criminal situations and make recommendations for policy. Students also develop the knowledge and skills to research policy in practice, assess campaigns for changes in awareness and examine information to review verdicts in criminal cases. Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime Internal/Controlled assessment: 8 hours The purpose of the unit is to plan a campaign for change relating to crime… The focus of the unit is on unreported crime and the consequences of such crimes. The unit will also introduce media representation of crime and how campaigns for change can raise awareness of unreported crimes in society. Candidates will apply their knowledge and understanding of the specification to the scenario presented by the unseen assignment brief when the controlled assessment begins.  Unit 2: Criminological Theories External examination: 1 hour 30 minutes This unit focuses on why people commit crime and includes a study of a range of theories of criminality Candidates may also draw on what is learnt in Unit 1 to support their answers. Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom Internal/Controlled assessment: 8 hours The focus of Unit 3 is the Criminal Justice System from the identification of the crime through to the verdict. This unit will allow candidates to gain the understanding and skills to be able to examine the validity of verdicts given in criminal cases Unit 4: Crime and Punishment External examination: 1 hour 30 minutes Apply understanding of theories and processes of bringing the accused to court Evaluate the effectiveness of social control Candidates may draw on information learnt in Units 1, 2 and 3 to support their answers.