Why study this course? Criminology helps society to understand the deep-rooted causes behind why people commit crimes. Students will investigate the social, economic and psychological causes behind crime as well as investigating rehabilitation and re-education of criminals. The course provides an accessible and fascinating insight into crime and punishment in British society and is an ideal stepping stone into higher education or employment in the criminal justice system. What will you study? Students learn about different types of crimes, explanations for why people commit crime and how we deal with criminals. They also study real-life examples of high profile crimes, and learn about media campaigns that arise from them, which aim to change the law. Students go on to look at what happens at the scene of a crime, the forensic and police investigation process, how cases are prepared for trial, and what happens in the courtroom at a criminal trial. They also look at our current forms of punishments, such as prison sentences, and consider how effective these are for deterring criminals. Course components Students complete 2 units that are coursework based and 2 units that are exam based across the two-year course. Each unit is worth 25% of the final grade. Future Pathways The criminology course supports students with access to higher education degrees in criminology, criminal justice, psychology, law and sociology. The course prepares students for entry into roles within the criminal justice system; the police, the prison service, forensics, intelligence agencies and social work.