Criminology and Sociology (W80)

This diploma offers you the chance to study topical, and at times controversial, criminological and sociological subject matter. You'll be introduced to the social research process, exploring what social research is, how it’s conducted, and why it’s important, so you'll become curious, inspired, and empowered to think critically about the process of producing knowledge about the social world. You'll also have the choice between considering the impact of digital technology on individuals and society, or looking at the many ways criminologists seek to explain crime, victims of crime and the role of criminal justice.

Key features of the course

• Explore topical issues about contemporary social life and about crime, harm and criminal justice

• Learn to evaluate evidence critically and understand criminological and sociological problems better

• Examine the role of both theory and research in shaping knowledge about crime, justice and the wider social world

• Explore criminological and sociological topics of your own interest in depth in the final year

Course Modules

This criminology and sociology diploma has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.

At Stage 1, you’ll begin with a broad introduction to the social sciences, giving you a strong grounding in sociological and social scientific ideas and approaches. You'll then be introduced to key concepts in and approaches to understanding crime, criminal justice, harm and victimisation.

At Stage 2, you'll choose between exploring ways in which criminology explains problems of crime, and investigating how the social world is being transformed by the internet and digital technology. You'll complete this stage with an introduction to the social research process.