Sociology with Criminology BSc (Hons)

Our dynamic Sociology with Criminology degree is tailor-made for those fascinated by the complexities of society and the intricacies of criminal justice. 

In a world grappling with diverse social challenges, and evolving crime and criminal justice dynamics, there's a growing demand for informed, critical thinkers who can navigate these issues. This course melds the study of societal structures with an in-depth exploration of criminological theories, offering a comprehensive understanding of both fields. 

Our curriculum is designed to immerse you in a range of topics, from the foundations of sociological and criminological thought to contemporary debates. You will delve into areas such as social inequality, deviance, criminal behaviour, the functioning of criminal justice institutions and public social science. The course empowers you with the analytical tools to understand and critically assess how societal forces shape criminal phenomena. 

Through our interactive learning approach, you'll engage in case studies and simulations and engage with experts, gaining practical insights into real-world scenarios. Graduates are well-equipped for careers in social research, community development, criminal justice, and policy analysis or for further academic pursuits in sociology or criminology. 

In your first year you will develop an understanding of human behaviour, societies, and social identities. You will study the formation of both individual and collective identities within the wider context of social divisions, diversity, and inequality in relation to race, gender, social class, and sexuality. You will consider global inequalities and environmental changes enabling you to participate in debates on topics such as society, ecology, and climate change. You will explore people’s journeys through the criminal justice system from the perspectives of practitioners, victims and suspects, developing a critical understanding of differential experiences of policing, courts, prisons, and probation.

In Year Two you will engage in theoretically informed debates on contemporary social issues topics such as mobilities, globalization, status, social class, and decolonization. You will study the ideas of race, ethnicity, nationality and citizenship in a historical perspective that takes account of power and inequalities. You will explore how human mobility and the categorisations of groups of people transform societies and these social phenomena can contribute to explain social inequalities.  You will explore how historical treatments of mental illness have created false identities of mental illness being connected to crime, risk and dangerousness. You will examine how these constructions have impacted the stigmatisation of individuals who are in contact with the CJS and have a mental health vulnerability.     

You will also have opportunities to learn through real world experience for example work placements and study abroad, to study a language, or engage with a research project to support and develop your career plans.   

In your final year, you will deepen your understanding of the sociology of consumption and will be encouraged to engage in critical consideration and reflection on the rise and continued predominance of consumer culture in our everyday lives. You will debate the role of education in wider society and opportunities it can provide within the wider context of neoliberalism, capitalism and postmodern thinking. You will engage in advanced studies of global governance, diplomacy, and international policy analysis.   

You will explore how social scientists can engage the public to promote social change. You will explore the role of power in framing social issues, the challenges of public social science, and the responsibilities of social scientists to educate and advocate for marginalized communities. Students develop skills in effectively communicating to diverse audiences. 

You will also undertake a major on a key social challenge with support and guidance from experienced researchers.   
Theoretical understandings also span across all three levels of study, with students building the ability to apply and appraise theory in reference to a variety of social problems

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the course that will take the form of either core or option modules and should be used as a guide. We review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects. If during a review process, course content is significantly changed, we will contact you to notify you of these changes if you receive an offer from us.

Job prospects

Sociology and Criminology are both diverse disciplines which have several professional and vocational applications.  However, students completing the degree will exit with a range of attributes that they can apply in a vocational context. Both Sociology and Criminology emphasise the skills of critical analysis, synthesis and the generation of a reflexive capacity. These are skills demanded by industry that can enable graduates to function effectively in the world of employment and to play a positive and effective role in the wider community. It is anticipated that many students who complete their studies will gain employment in a field that will have a relationship to social process and enquiry. Sociology with Criminology provides a pathway towards many possible career choices, ranging from the caring professions to business, management, the media, local government, the criminal justice system and the voluntary sector. 

A Sociology with Criminology degree may also open up opportunities as follows: 

• Criminal Justice System Roles 
• Policing and Law Enforcement 
• Legal Professions / Paralegal / Legal Researcher / Victim Advocate 
• Research and Analysis 
• Community and Social Work 
• Non-Profit and Advocacy 
• Charity Worker 
• Lobbyist 
• Education and Training 
• Journalism and Media 
• Government and Public Policy 
• International Careers / Human Rights Worker / Anti-Trafficking Worker
  

While the above are directly related opportunities, the skills gained in a sociology and criminology programme widely apply to many fields. Skills such as critical thinking, research, and analysing societal structures are in demand in various professions. 

Progression options

Gender Studies MRes

Policing, Law Enforcement and Security MSc

Careers service

The University has an award-winning Careers and Employability service which provides a variety of employability-enhancing experiences; through the curriculum, through employer contact, tailored group sessions, individual information, advice and guidance.

Careers and Employability aims to deliver a service which is inclusive, impartial, welcoming, informed and tailored to your personal goals and aspirations, to enable you to develop as an individual and contribute to the business and community in which you will live and work.

We are here to help you plan your future, make the most of your time at University and to enhance your employability. We provide access to part-time jobs, extra-curricular employability-enhancing workshops and offer practical one-to-one help with career planning, including help with CVs, applications and mock interviews. We also deliver group sessions on career planning within each course and we have a wide range of extensive information covering graduate jobs and postgraduate study.