Criminology and Sociology

Key features of the course

• Explore lively and 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.

We also offer a Diploma of Higher Education in Criminology and Sociology (W80) that is the same in structure as the first two-thirds of this degree.

Entry requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.

At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.

Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you'll need to succeed. If you're not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.

Answer a few quick questions to check whether you're ready for study success

Skills for career development

This degree will enable you to formulate and investigate sociological and criminological questions; build arguments; assess the methods used to generate evidence and research; and analyse, interpret and evaluate a wide range of information. You'll also learn how to communicate effectively with different audiences (e.g. through reports, policy briefs, blogs, and presentations); work with others; and give and receive peer feedback. You'll have the chance to devise and conduct your own project and will develop substantial skills in time-management, self-reflection and self-motivation, and the ability to work independently.

Career relevance

A degree in criminology and sociology can lead to employment across the public, private and voluntary sectors. Businesses, public sector organisations and educational institutions increasingly have to deal with social issues, and value the skills that criminology and sociology graduates can provide. Consequently, your degree will be relevant to a wide range of professions, some of which are listed below. You can also use your degree to pursue further study in the higher education sector.

Please note, this degree does not guarantee entry to the career fields listed, which may require specialist qualifications to enter. However, it may help you gain those qualifications and enhance your prospects for progression once you are employed.

Other careers

Many graduate-level jobs are open to criminology and sociology graduates, particularly in business, the voluntary sector and the public sector.

Exploring your options

Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice. This includes online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.

In the meantime if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience beyond your degree.

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