Criminology

Our degree in Criminology will enable you to develop an understanding of the causes of crime and the impact crime has on individuals, communities and the wider society. You will also study the current challenges facing the criminal justice system.

Criminology is multidisciplinary in nature and therefore when studying crime causation and crime reduction you will draw information from a diverse range of disciplines, including psychology, sociology and law. Modules in Criminology research methods will also provide you with key technical and analytical skills necessary to engage in contemporary debates surrounding policies and practices designed to prevent crime. On completion of your degree, you will possess a repertoire of skills essential for pursuing a professional career in areas such as policing, prisons and youth justice.

The degree in Criminology opens up a range of exciting opportunities for you. You will be a strong candidate to become a barrister or a solicitor.

From the moment you arrive at the Aberystwyth Law School, we will work with you to build on your skills and experience to enhance your career prospects. During your time with us, you will have the opportunity to undertake a work experience placement with large organisations such as the County Council and NHS Wales.

In addition, every student has the opportunity to undertake a Year in Employment placement also known as 'YES'. This programme is centred around a year-long placement in a chosen industry by yourself between your second and third year. Aberystwyth University has a dedicated Careers Service that is here to advise, help and mentor you during your time at Aberystwyth University.

The department offers extracurricular activities, these include a competing Mooting Society, where the participants take part in national and international Mooting competitions. The department also has a specific Welsh-medium Mooting Society for those who wish to moot in the Welsh language. Students who are part of the Mooting Society develop key advocacy and litigation skills.

The degree will not only help you to develop a range of key transferable skills that are important for employment in general but will also provide specialist skills and knowledge relevant to a professional career in a criminal justice setting (e.g. Police, Probation or Prison Service).

During the degree you will explore the range of problematic behaviours which draw upon psychological, sociological, legal, economic and historical theories in its explanation. In your first year you will be introduced to the principles of crime control; the enforcement and prevention; gain an understanding of legal concepts and become familiar with legal method and argument; you will research design, data handling and interpretation of qualitative and quantitative methodologies. In your second and third year you will explore; - the criminological research proficiencies; you will conduct your own research area for your dissertation. We also offer students a choice from our elective modules such as; • History of Criminology • Crimes and Misconduct in Business • Politics and the Professions • Psychology and Crime. During your degree, you will be able to undertake a work placement in one of the criminal justice agencies, giving your academic learning practical application