Criminology
Criminology – Level 3 Diploma
Criminology was a new applied course launched in Oakes College Cambridge in 2019.
Criminology is a combination of many subjects, such as: Psychology, Sociology and Law.
Criminology is the study of the law enforcement and criminal justice system.
Exam Board – WJEC
The course consists of 4 units:
- Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime – coursework
- Unit 2: Criminological Theories – exam (90 mins)
- Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom – coursework
- Unit 4: Crime and Punishment – exam (90 mins)
What sort of work is involved?
Criminology is an applied course. This means that you will study case studies and draw conclusions from them. You will have to work in groups a lot.
You will learn to analyse the strengths and limitations of all perspectives studied, you learn not to take things for granted, or to accept assertions at face value!
What background do I need?
You don’t need any specific GCSEs but you should be good at essay based subjects at GCSE, such as English, History or Religious Studies. As an applied course, you will need to enjoy completing coursework. A lot of the material overlaps with Sociology and Law. Taking these A-levels alongside Criminology is not seen as favourable by some employers and universities.
Where can it lead?
Criminology provides an excellent starting point for any social science degree. However, not all universities accept Criminology as an A-level equivalent.
Careers:
- Probation
- Police and prison services
- Legal profession
- Social work
Entry Requirements:
To study this course students would normally be expected to achieve:7 Higher Grades including
- Grade 4 (or above) for English and Maths
- Grade 4 (or above) for other GCSE subjects
- 1 BTEC (or equivalent) at Merit (or above) may be included within the 7 grades
