Criminology and Law

Develop an in-depth understanding of crime, justice and the legal system with our combined Criminology and Law degree.

• Study and learn to apply the interrelated theory behind crime and the law.

• Prepare for a wide range of careers, either within or beyond the criminal justice and legal sectors.

• Studying Law and Criminology will allow you to appreciate complex legal situations through the lens of Criminology.

On this combined Criminology and Law degree, you’ll explore the connections between crime, the legal system and criminal justice.

In your Criminology studies, you'll explore the criminal justice system, analyse the causes of criminal behaviour, look at how crime impacts society, and learn how this can inform policing, law and punishment.

You’ll gain a broad understanding of the law and legal systems. You’ll learn the law, and also gain valuable practical skills that could be used by a lawyer in practice and in a range of related careers.

If you decide not to pursue a career in law or criminal justice, this course will ensure you’re well prepared for a variety of roles that require a similar skill set, such as in governance, public policy and finance.

Why study Law and Criminology?

Criminology and Law are naturally overlapping subject areas, and by studying them together you’ll get to explore the causes, motivations and patterns of criminal conduct, while gaining a deep understanding of the justice system and the law.

Your studies will also cover other legal areas such as business, property, media and employment, giving you a wide range of skills and knowledge that will enhance and broaden your employability prospects.

Professional Placement Year

A Professional Placement Year (PPY), traditionally known as a sandwich year, is where you undertake a period of work with an external organisation for between 9-13 months. The placement occurs between your second and final years of undergraduate study. You can engage in multiple placements to make up the total time and are required to source the placement(s) yourself, with support from the Careers team.

Course Modules

Year one
You’ll be introduced to the key concepts, theories and issues of criminology, criminal law and criminal justice agencies and institutions. In your Law studies, you’ll gain a broad understanding of English legal systems and the British Constitution. You’ll develop skills in case analysis and legal research methods.

Year two
You’ll study contemporary debates in criminology and criminal justice, including a specific focus on policing. You’ll further develop your legal understanding to include subjects such as contract law and EU and international law, and you’ll develop skills of negotiation, advocacy and drafting.

You can choose from a number of optional modules to create a programme tailored to your personal interests. You can delve more deeply into the social divisions associated with crime, and explore areas such as employment law, marketing and entrepreneurship. You'll also be supported and encouraged to take a work placement.

You can choose to take a Professional Placement Year between the second and third year.

Year three
You’ll undertake an original piece of criminological research in an area that interests you, along with comparative study of criminal justice and punishment in a global context.

You’ll have the chance to hone your practice skills with our range of law co-curricular activities, or undertake a law project. You’ll be able to select from a range of modules, a number of which highlight the global dimensions of crime and justice.