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Criminology

Level 3 / 2 year Course / Eduqas

1 year: Level 3 Applied Certificate
2 year: Level 3 Applied Diploma

Crime is always in the public eye and has emerged as a social phenomenon inseparable from our day-to-day lives. Studying Criminology will allow you to understand the culture of crime and workings of the criminal justice system including the police, courts, prosecution services, prisons and rehabilitation services.

More on this course

Criminology is about crime and punishment. It is an exciting interdisciplinary subject that draws on law, psychology and sociology to examine how crime is defined, why people commit crimes, and how society responds. Course content includes the following:

  • Unit 1: Changing awareness of crime
  • Unit 2: Criminological theories
  • Unit 3: Crime scene to courtroom
  • Unit 4: Crime and punishment.

Teaching and learning methods

There are a number of opportunities for students to extend their understanding of Criminology. Outside speakers visit Durham Sixth Form Centre and include prison officers, police officers and representatives from local universities.

Students can visit local criminal courts and crime days led by universities and ex-professionals. In addition, students may have the opportunity to visit Shrewsbury Prison, local universities and specialised courses to provide a detailed understanding of the criminal justice system.

Assessment

Assessment is by controlled assessment (Units 1 and 3) and external examination (Units 2 and 4).

Students will be assessed in both Year 12 and Year 13.

Skills and Careers Insight

Level 3 Criminology equips you with critical thinking, analytical, and research skills, as you study crime, its causes, and its impact on society. You'll explore topics such as criminal justice systems, criminal behaviour, laws, and the social response to crime. This knowledge is invaluable in careers in law enforcement, criminal justice, social work, legal professions, and forensic psychology. Whether you aspire to become a police officer, criminologist, probation officer, or work in victim support, Level 3 Criminology provides a strong foundation for a range of rewarding and impactful careers that work to understand and address crime in society.

Subject Combination

This subject and its content would be ideally suited alongside the following subjects.

Politics

Sociology

Law

Student Testimonials

What do our students think about studying here?

The topics covered in lesson are really interesting. I choose criminology as I wish to pursue a career as a detective and the content expands my knowledge of the criminal justice system. The course is split into four units with two controlled assessments and two exams. There are plenty of enrichment opportunities such as the Shrewsbury Prison Trip. Criminology students were given the opportunity to stay overnight in a cell and take part in an escape room! I have also been to criminology conferences at Teesside University. Personally, criminology is my favourite subject because my teacher is extremely helpful.

Olivia Hunter

Former DSFC Student from Belmont Community School

I think the best thing about Durham Sixth Form Centre is the fact that it’s a mature environment and it gives you the independence you need.

Sam Henig

Previous school - Wellfield School

I think Durham Sixth Form Centre is a perfect choice because the lessons are well planned and there is a brilliant balance between independent learning and support from all teachers.

Hannah Warwick

Previous school - Hermitage Academy

When I was in Year 11, the biggest worry for me was the transitional period between Year 11 and Year 12. But the support and the teachers made this so much smoother for me moving from my secondary school to Durham Sixth Form Centre.

Jenni Fairish

Previous school - Whitworth Park Academy

The atmosphere and quality of teaching at Durham Sixth Form Centre is very impressive and you can see a great deal of passion from the educators, which is something I believe is very important.

Logan Aitchinson

Previous school - Park View School

I really enjoy learning about criminology as I think it’s interesting to see how the criminal justice system responds to crime. I also love the different enrichment opportunities, such as the Shrewsbury Prison trip which was fun but also educational. This links to my progression route as I would like to study criminology at university after sixth form.

Lucy Lidde

Previous school - Durham Johnston Comprehensive School