Criminology

What is Criminology?

Criminology is the perfect course for anyone fascinated by crime, criminal behaviour and the criminal justice system. Explore why people commit crimes, how crimes are investigated, how criminals are punished and how society works to prevent offending. You’ll investigate real-life criminal cases, examine the work of the police and courts, and discover how psychology and sociology help us understand criminal behaviour.

If you’re interested in true crime, forensic investigation, psychology, law or simply want to understand the world around you, Criminology offers a fascinating insight into the world of crime and justice.

What are the entry requirements?

You do not need to have studied similar courses at GCSE to study Criminology. However, owing to the written nature of the subject, in addition to the general 6th form entry requirements, you must additionally achieve a grade 5 or above in another written subject such as:

  • Sociology
  • English Literature
  • History
  • Geography
  • Religious Studies

What is the exam board?

Criminology is offered through WJEC. Full details of the course can be found at:

https://www.wjec.co.uk/qualifications/criminology-level-3/#tab_keydocuments

How will I be examined? How will I be prepared for this?

Criminology is made up of 50% controlled assessment and 50% exams.

In total, you will complete two controlled assessments (one in year 12, one in year 13), and two exams (again, one in year 12, one in year 13).

Controlled assessments will be completed in school and marked by your teachers (before being moderated by somebody outside of the school). You will have a certain number of teaching hours which will provide you with the knowledge needed to complete these assessments.

When studying for the two exam units, you will be set homework designed to help you develop exam skills. This will therefore most often take the form of exam questions to complete.

What will I study

Year 12

Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime (Controlled Assessment)

Why do some crimes go unreported, and why are certain crimes more likely to attract public attention than others?

In this unit, you will explore different types of crime, including those that often go unnoticed or unreported, and consider why victims may be reluctant to come forward. You will investigate how crime is represented in the media and how this influences public perceptions. You will also explore how campaigns can raise awareness of hidden crimes and bring about changes in society. You will put your knowledge into practice by planning your own campaign for change, responding to a scenario set by the exam board.

Unit 2: Criminological Theories (Exam)

Why do people commit crime? Is criminal behaviour influenced by our biology, our upbringing, our personalities or the society in which we live?

In this unit, you will explore a range of explanations for criminal behaviour, including biological theories, psychological approaches and sociological perspectives such as Marxism, functionalism, labelling theory and realism. You will consider the difference between crime and deviance, and explore how society decides what behaviour is considered criminal. You will apply these theories to real-life criminal situations, evaluate how successfully they explain offending and investigate how they influence government policies and approaches to tackling crime.

Year 13

Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom (Controlled Assessment)

What actually happens when a crime is committed, and how do we decide whether someone is guilty?

In this unit, you will follow the criminal justice process from the initial identification of a crime through the investigation, collection of evidence and preparation of a case, right through to the courtroom and final verdict. You will explore the roles of different professionals, including the police, forensic investigators, lawyers and judges, and investigate a range of techniques used to solve crimes. You will also develop the skills to examine evidence, consider its reliability and validity, and ultimately judge whether verdicts in criminal cases are fair and just.

Unit 4: Crime and Punishment (Exam)

How does society prevent crime, and what should happen to those who break the law?

In this unit, you will explore how the criminal justice system operates in England and Wales, including how laws are made and how different organisations work together to tackle crime. You will investigate the different ways society maintains social control, from policing and crime prevention to the role of charities and other organisations. You will also examine the purposes of punishment, such as rehabilitation, deterrence, retribution and public protection, and consider whether prison, community sentences and fines achieve these aims. Drawing on everything you have learnt throughout the course, you will evaluate how effectively society deals with crime and protects the public.

Where can I go with a qualification in Criminology?

Studying Criminology will help you develop a range of skills that universities and employers value:

  • Research skills: Finding, gathering and using information from a variety of sources, including real-life criminal cases and research studies.
  • Critical thinking: Questioning information, challenging assumptions and considering different explanations for why people behave as they do.
  • Analysis and evaluation: Examining evidence, assessing the reliability of information and reaching reasoned conclusions.
  • Communication: Developing the ability to express ideas clearly, construct arguments and present information effectively.
  • Problem-solving: Applying your knowledge to unfamiliar situations and considering possible solutions to real-world problems.
  • Independent learning: Managing your own research, organising your work and taking responsibility for your progress.
  • Understanding people and society: Developing an appreciation of human behaviour, social inequalities, the causes of crime and the ways society responds to offending.

These are transferable skills, meaning that they will be useful whatever direction you decide to take after sixth form.

Possible careers

Criminal justice and policing

  • Police officer: Investigating crime, protecting the public, gathering evidence and helping to bring offenders to justice.
  • Detective: Specialising in investigating more complex crimes, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
  • Crime scene investigator (CSI): Examining crime scenes, collecting forensic evidence and helping establish what happened.
  • Prison officer: Supervising prisoners, maintaining safety and supporting rehabilitation and preparation for release.
  • Probation officer: Working with people who have committed offences, monitoring their behaviour and helping them avoid reoffending.
  • Criminal intelligence analyst: Examining information and patterns to help identify criminal activity and support investigations.

Psychology and social care

  • Forensic psychologist: Applying psychological knowledge to understand criminal behaviour, assess offenders and support rehabilitation. This requires further specialist university training.
  • Social worker: Supporting vulnerable individuals and families, including people affected by crime, abuse and social disadvantage.
  • Youth offending team worker: Supporting young people who have committed offences or are at risk of becoming involved in crime.
  • Victim support worker: Helping victims of crime cope with the impact of their experiences and access appropriate support.
  • Rehabilitation worker: Supporting people with issues such as substance misuse, offending behaviour and reintegration into society.

Law, government and research

  • Solicitor or barrister: Working within the legal profession, advising clients, preparing cases and representing individuals in court. Further legal qualifications are required.
  • Criminologist: Researching why crime happens, examining patterns of offending and helping develop policies to reduce crime.
  • Civil servant: Working for government departments such as the Home Office or Ministry of Justice, potentially contributing to criminal justice policy and legislation.
  • Social researcher: Investigating social issues such as crime, poverty, inequality and offending, using research and evidence to inform decisions.
  • Crime prevention officer: Developing strategies to reduce offending and improve safety within local communities.

Where do I go if I have further questions?

Come and speak to us in person at open evening. Alternatively, feel free to email the Head of Department, Simon Lewis, at:

s.lewis@thepolesworthschool.com