Criminology considers the nature, causes and control of criminal behaviour in both society and on an individual level.  Criminology closely links to the study of psychology, sociology and law.

Criminologists consider some of the current issues in society.  They carry out research on types of crimes and present an explanation for why they happen such as family background, mental health issues and biological causes.  A criminologist aims to be able to predict and prevent future crimes by helping law enforcement detect and catch criminals.

You will study: definitions of crime; different types of crimes; the reasons why crime occurs but can also go unreported; consequences for victims; and the offender and wider society. You will consider how the media represents crime and campaigns for changing awareness of crime.  In addition, you will learn how to study, collect and analyse data.

You will evaluate the usefulness of current definitions of crime, and how the perception of crime has changed over time. 

In the second year you will study the process from the crime scene to the courtroom and the trial process.  You will cover the law- making process and how crime is controlled.

Assessment takes the form of two examinations (one and a half hours) and two controlled assessments, completed in school time (8 hours).

A Criminology degree can lead to careers in policing, the criminal justice system, social work, prisons and crime prevention.  The skills gained from studying criminology are transferrable to many other careers, based around problem solving and research.

Criminology can be studied alongside a maximum of ONE of the following courses:  Psychology, Sociology, or Law