Criminology and Sociology

BA (Hons) Criminology and Sociology
Mode: full-time

This vocational course is taught by experienced and supportive staff. Students are given a thorough understanding of sociology to underpin the study of crime and criminal justice.

All members of staff are involved in research and consultancy in the fields of crime and criminal justice.

The course integrates the complementary subjects of Criminology and Sociology. At stage one, students are introduced to the main theories and concepts of sociology and criminology and examine specific forms of criminal behaviour such as domestic violence, serial killing, white collar crime and racially motivated crimes. Criminological research methods and key principles of criminal law and justice are introduced at this level.

At stage two, students explore subjects in more depth and explore the philosophies of punishment and theories of deviancy. Consideration is made of how the mass media reports certain crimes and how the nature of this reporting can impact on society and influence its attitudes. Students will also have the opportunity to network with employers and gather useful vocational experience.

At stage three, students undertake a research project in a subject of choice and undertake modules that explore youth crime, contemporary forms of crime and criminal justice issues.

Why choose this course?

• Experienced and supportive staff team provide learning opportunities in a friendly environment
• Opportunity to study crime and criminal justice, simultaneously specialising in the discipline of sociology
• Vocationally relevant and assists students in preparing for their graduate careers

Career Opportunities

The vocational emphasis of the course ensures that students perform consistently well in the graduate job market.

The course is directly relevant to careers in the criminal justice field. These include careers as youth workers, probation officers, educational welfare officers, juvenile justice workers and police officers.

The programme also provides key transferable skills that open opportunities in wide careers including: communication and marketing, local government, the voluntary sector and business administration.

The staff team have developed links with a number of public and private bodies that help to provide useful experiences for students.

Teaching/learning methods and strategies

Teaching is delivered through a variety of methods including lectures, seminars, workshops and individual tutorials.

Assessment

Assessment on the course is through essays, group research, presentations, seminar papers and exams.