Sociology and Criminology

This BA Sociology and Criminology allows you to combine the study of social life and social relations with the field of criminology and the investigation of crime and its control.

Why choose this course?

• This joint honours degree gives you the chance to explore the ideas, social processes and social forces that give shape to the contemporary world and investigate key criminology topics, methods and theories.

• You will learn from leading academics and will develop independence of thought in confronting the social realities of today.

• It benefits from being embedded in a wider academic community exploring the social sciences both in theory and in practice.

What you will learn

On this course you will confront and seek to understand the most challenging social questions of our time by examining social relations and social change alongside the critical investigation of policies, institutions and practices related to crime and its control.

You will explore theories and case studies that equip you with the knowledge to make sense of the complexity of society, crime and punishment and learn about the social relations and criminal justice systems that give shape to the contemporary world.

You will study a variety of themes, including migration, human rights, inequalities, policing, deportation, security, institutions and racial justice. You will also gain a wealth of highly transferable analytical and critical-thinking skills.

How you will learn

This course is available to study full- or part-time and follows an evening timetable. You will learn through lectures, seminars, online resources and activities and site visits. You will also have the chance to tailor the course to your interests choosing from a range of option modules.

Foundation Year

If you opt for the Foundation Year route, this will fully prepare you for undergraduate study. It is ideal if you are returning to study after a gap, or if you have not previously studied the relevant subjects, or if you didn't achieve the grades you need for a place on your chosen undergraduate degree.

Highlights

• This joint honours degree equips you with a broad range of expertise in sociology and criminology.

• You will discover the key theories, methods and case studies that make social life and the control of crime a reality.

• Ours is a vibrant research culture, powered by a shared passion for learning and intellectual engagement among our academics and students.

• You will join Birkbeck’s student community and campus which enjoys a rich history in Bloomsbury in the very heart of London.

Careers and employability

On successfully graduating from this BA Sociology and Criminology you will have gained an array of important transferable skills, including in:

• critical thinking and analytical reasoning

• clear and persuasive written and verbal communication

• independent research and project management

• teamwork and collaborative problem-solving

• adaptability and intercultural awareness.

Studying this course will prepare you for career paths in a range of fields and professions including:

• social research and policy analysis

• criminal justice and human rights advocacy

• community outreach

• public sector and NGOs.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.

Course modules

For information about course structure and the modules you will be studying, please visit Birkbeck’s online prospectus.