Criminology and Law (with Foundation Year)

Criminology and law are a perfect fit, combining a social science approach to crime with an understanding of core legal principles and institutions.

You will:

study the causes and consequences of crime by looking at current theories, issues, and debates, integral to criminology and law.

gain an understanding of the criminal justice system, and institutions such as the police, courts, prisons, and probation service, which are crucial for anyone studying a criminology and law degree.

explore the relationships between the law, individuals, and society, and how the law fits into the social, political, and cultural context of the society we live in, a critical component of law and criminology studies.

A foundation year at the University of East London (UEL) is more than just an extra year—it’s your pathway to success. It helps you adjust to university life, build confidence, and develop essential skills for levels 4-6 of your chosen degree. With dedicated support, you’ll gain the knowledge needed to thrive in your studies and future career while becoming part of a supportive community

Foundation Year:
Mental Wealth and Professional Fitness, Skills for Business Innovation and Enterprise, Business, Innovation and Enterprise Analytical Skills, Media and Communication Skills, Law and Criminal Justice in Practice.

Year 1:
Introduction to Crime and Punishment, Developing Skills for Justice (MW), Research Skills in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Contemporary Issues in Criminology, Criminal Justice Process.

Year 2:
Theoretical Criminology, Crime and Social History, Essential Skills for Justice (MW), Crime Policy into Practice, Policing and Society: Critical Perspectives, Optional Placement.

Year 3:
Leadership Skills for Justice (MW), Cybercrime, Race, Ethnicity, Crime and Justice, Youth Crime and Gangs Policy, Work-based Learning in Criminology and Criminal Justice, Policing and Criminal Investigation, Mentally Disordered Suspects, Defendants and Offenders, Psychological Criminology.

For more information about individual modules, please visit our course pages via the link below.

Assessment tasks are mainly spread across the year to make the workload manageable. Assessment methods include group work, exams and individual work including essays, presentations, case studies, professional development and practical activities depending on the nature of the course. All grades count towards your module mark. More details will be included in the student handbook and module guides. You will always receive detailed feedback outlining your strengths and how you can improve.

We aim to provide feedback on assessments within 15 working days, although you will receive immediate feedback following many of our face-to-face assessments.