BA (Hons) Criminology
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Arts
- UCAS Course Code
- L311
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
If you are fascinated by crime and criminality, then studying criminology at UEA could be just the course you are looking for.
Our BA Criminology course will provide you with an excellent grounding in the study of crime useful for a variety of professional roles. You'll explore the nature and forms of crime, processes of criminalization, the criminal justice system, explanations of crime, the impact of crime, and responses to it, such as sentencing and punishment. You'll seek answers to questions such as: What is crime? How much crime is there? Why do people commit crime? How can we reduce or prevent crime? How should we deal with offenders?
Criminology is not only an exciting and contentious subject to study, but it also has real-world relevance. This course therefore emphasizes the application of ideas and knowledge to real-life cases and contemporary issues and problems surrounding crime. It will not only provide you with a breadth and depth of knowledge and understanding about crime, criminals, and criminal justice, but you'll also develop a wide range of relevant interpersonal and workplace skills to help you build a successful career after you graduate.
From day one you'll take modules that immerse you in the world of crime; where you'll start to learn about the Criminal Justice System, criminal law and causes of crime. You'll be taught by academics with specialist knowledge and expertise in a variety of fields within criminology who will guide and support you through your course.
This criminology degree has been specifically designed to provide you with valuable knowledge, experiences, and skills to enable you to secure meaningful employment (or go on to further study) once you have graduated. A criminology degree is relevant to a wide range of career destinations within or in relation to the broad sphere of criminal justice. A substantial part of this course consists of modules that are particularly useful to working with offenders or ex-offenders, or other roles within different sectors of the Criminal Justice System.
You'll have the opportunity to contextualize and enhance your understanding of crime and justice through participation in field trips to relevant criminal justice sites (such as a prison and local courts). You'll hear from criminal justice practitioners and other professionals working in various crime and justice-related roles as well as academics from other institutions invited as guest speakers. These experiences will support your employability through exposure to the real-world of criminology, beyond the classroom.
Delivered within the UEA Law School, the course offers a criminology degree with a legal flavour by offering several law-based modules that align with criminology alongside more usual criminological subjects. In your final year you'll undertake your own independent project on an issue of your choice and will be able to choose the rest of your modules so you can tailor your learning to reflect your areas of interest or career ambitions.
Study and Modules
Structure
You'll begin your degree with some introductory modules where you'll develop a foundational understanding of many of the key concepts, theories, issues, and debates within criminology before moving on to more specialist areas of study as the course progresses.
In your first year, you'll take modules that will challenge your understanding of crime and where you'll become familiar with the key themes that underpin much of criminology. You'll cover topics that form the building blocks of a criminology degree and which you'll draw on later in the course. You'll start to explore what crime is and what impact it has and begin to think critically about the Criminal Justice System and how we respond to crime. You'll examine early perspectives and ideas about what causes crime and learn about criminal law. To help you achieve your potential on the course, you'll also take a module specifically dedicated to developing the academic and research skills you need when studying criminology.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
The course is delivered by a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, as well as some field trips. New and introductory information will usually be received through lectures. These are complemented by seminars or workshops where you'll have the opportunity to be more actively involved in the learning process and engage more deeply with the many current issues, debates and concerns relating to crime through critical discussion.
As well as knowledge and understanding, you'll also develop a range of academic, cognitive, practical, and interpersonal skills that will help prepare you for the world of work and life after university. As you progress through the course, there is increasing emphasis on being able to apply your knowledge and ideas to real-world cases and demonstrating an ability to think creatively and analytically. You'll develop skills in finding and assimilating information, critical thinking, problem-solving, making reasoned and evidenced arguments, digital literacy, the ability to communicate effectively, and self-management.
Every module has a dedicated virtual space where you can access learning materials (such as slides, reading lists and links to additional resources) to support your learning.
In your first year, you'll have an average of around nine hours of timetabled classes per week. To succeed at university level, you'll also need to spend a significant amount of time undertaking self-directed study. You'll be supported to become an independent learner by, for example, following up lectures with further reading to consolidate your notes and understanding, and completing any preparation for your seminars or workshops. You'll also have regular meetings with your allocated Academic Advisor who is there to guide you through your degree.
Assessment
A variety of types of assessment are used throughout the course. Assessment methods will include case studies, reports and briefings, mock interviews, essays, blogs, and presentations as well as essays and some exams.
You'll receive either generic or individual feedback on your skills and understanding in a timely manner and an appropriate format for each assignment you submit. Feedback will identify what you have done well and will make clear what you can improve on for future assignments. For each module, you'll have the opportunity to complete a relevant ungraded piece of work, as practice for completing the graded assignment to the best of your ability based on the feedback you are given.
Given the real-world nature of criminology this course prioritizes assessments that map onto tasks you may be expected to undertake in the workplace to help you prepare for your future career.
Whilst there are some exams the majority of assessment is in the form of coursework.
In your first year you'll be expected to complete both coursework and online tests/exams.
Structure
As you progress into your second year, you'll study more diverse topics that reflect some of the different fields within criminology. There are modules on victims (rather than perpetrators) of crime and psychology and crime, where you'll investigate the role and application of psychology to understanding crime and the criminal justice process. You'll expand your knowledge of what crime is by exploring some of the more contemporary forms of crime (such as organized crime and cybercrime) and examine some new perspectives within criminology that have emerged to help analyse the problem of crime. You'll also be able to choose one of two Sociology modules on either social policy and social justice or gender, victimization and offending, and will continue to develop your skills in understanding, analyzing and conducting research.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
The second year follows a similar structure to the first year, with two hours of lectures for each module per week and a two-hour seminar each fortnight. Regular meetings with your Academic Supervisor continue.
Assessment
In your second year you'll be assessed entirely by coursework.
Structure
In your final year, you'll undertake an independent project where you'll be able to immerse yourself in a topic or issue relating to crime that you feel passionate about. You are able to choose the remainder of your third-year modules based on your individual interests or intended career path. You can study more advanced topics (such as sentencing and human rights), further explore various types of crimes (such as state crime, terrorism and white-collar crime) or select modules that have a more applied focus and are more specific to working within the criminal justice sector; these include modules on policing, prisons, rehabilitation and young people and youth justice.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 40)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your third year there is a slight reduction in timetabled classes to allow you to work more independently in completing your final year project. You'll continue to meet with your Academic Advisor and will also receive one-to-one supervision on your project.
The exact format of lectures, seminars and workshops may vary according to different modules to reflect the most effective way to teach the topic.
Assessment
In your third year you'll complete an independent project under the guidance of an appropriate member of academic staff.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- ABB If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Not accepted
- BTEC
- DDM in related subject, Applied Science, Business, Applied Law, Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Health and Social Care. CTECH DDM in Business. Excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration. See below for accepted subjects and combinations
- Contextual Offer
A Level - BBC
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma - DMM (subject specific requirements apply)
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AAABB
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
- Access to HE Diploma
- Pass the Access with Distinction in 36 credits at level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at level 3
- International Baccalaureate
- 32
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
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IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 2 entry
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
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- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
BTEC Combinations
Extended Diploma: DDD in related subject, Applied Science, Business, Applied Law, Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Health and Social Care. CTECH DDD in Business. Excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration
Diploma: DD in related subject, Applied Science, Business, Applied Law, Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Health and Social Care plus B at A-level. Excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration
Extended Certificate: D in related subject, Applied Science, Business, Applied Law, Forensic and Criminal Investigation or Health and Social Care plus AB at A-level. Excluding BTEC Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree: International Foundation in Business, Economics, Society and Culture or International Foundation in Humanities and Law
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
Criminology is a degree subject relevant to a wide range of professional roles and occupations and provides a foundation that can be used to pursue many different career paths. On successful completion of this course, you might go on to work within the civil service; social, health or welfare services; education; law, or of course, within the criminal justice sector. You could work within the Criminal Justice System itself or within related agencies or organisations including local and national government departments, think-tanks and reform groups, or the voluntary sector. Many charities work with offenders, ex-offenders, offenders’ families, and victims of crime. Alternatively, you might choose to progress to a higher degree.
The course has close links with the UEA Careers Service so that you'll be supported at every stage throughout your degree in choosing your career and what is next for you.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Police, Prison or Probation Services
- Youth Justice/ Youth Work
- Community Development
- Security and Intelligence
- Social Research
- Crime/Data Analyst
Discover more on our Careers webpages.