Criminology and Sociology

Investigate the social, cultural, economic, and political factors that lead to crime, while developing in-demand, industry-relevant skills.

We were one of the first universities to teach Criminology over 50 years ago, and our research leaders are still at the forefront today. You’ll explore how crime affects society while considering your own attitude to crime, criminals and victims. Under expert academic and industry guidance, you’ll get hands-on experience in up-to-the-minute facilities, including in our replica Crime Scene Training Facility.

A combination of core and optional modules, and the opportunity to apply for a placement with Humberside Police, sets you up for success in various criminal justice roles.

Why study at Hull?

• 100% employability: A perfect 100% of our students are in work or further study 15 months after graduating.¹

• Go behind the scenes: We’re one of the few UK universities with a replica crime scene training facility on campus. Here, you can collect evidence, explore criminal activity, and bring forensic science to life.

• Real-world experience: Put theory into practice on field trips to courts, police stations and prisons, and get the chance to apply for a semester placement with Humberside Police.

Where could this take me?

There’s strong demand for criminologists with an understanding of crime’s impact on society, so this degree puts you in pole position to start your fulfilling career.

Many of our graduates go into careers within the police force, HM Prison Services, the Probation Service, legal professions, analysis, social work, the charity sector or the Civil Service.

¹ (Criminology and Sociology) UK domicile full-time first degree leavers; Higher Education Graduate Outcomes statistics, for the academic year 2020/21, published by HESA June 2023.

Course Modules

Core modules include:

Becoming a Criminologist
Crime, Deviance and Society
Global Issues–Local Impact
Sociological Storytelling–Making Sense of Society
Global Insecurities–Future of Humanity

Optional modules include:

Offending and Victimisation
Exploring Murder
Atrocities and Transitional Justice
Terrorism and Cybercrime
Radicalisation, Activism and Religion

You'll be assessed through a combination of written, practical and coursework assessments throughout your degree.

Written assessment typically includes exams and multiple choice tests.

Practical is an assessment of your skills and competencies. This could include presentations, school experience, work experience or laboratory work.

Coursework typically includes essays, written assignments, dissertations, research projects or producing a portfolio of your work.