Explore crime and criminal justice issues faced in modern society. You’ll gain a deep insight into the theories of crime, justice and punishment.

This is a degree with a strong global focus. You’ll study key issues, including human rights and terrorism, social justice, contemporary social issues, and the globalisation of crime.

You’ll gain knowledge of how criminal justice agencies work and interact, and how criminal justice policy is created. You’ll also explore how policing, courts and prisons present new challenges in today’s world.

In Year 1, you'll learn about crime and justice from a theoretical and practical perspective. You'll examine key criminological concepts, like victimisation, deviance, and justice, and learn to evaluate data and information to develop arguments.

Year 2 will develop your knowledge of criminological theory, criminal justice practice and policy, and global crime. You’ll also enhance your research and data analysis skills.

In your final year, you'll do your dissertation. This will demonstrate the knowledge and skills you’ve developed. You'll also choose from a range of specialist criminology and social science optional units. This will enable you to develop an in-depth understanding of criminal justice institutions, explore topics that interest you and prepare you for your future.

Informed teaching to advance your learning

You’ll learn from a team of expert criminal justice researchers and criminologists. Their passion, knowledge and research shape their teaching, enhancing your learning experience.

Category B

If you do not meet our English GCSE requirements, you will need a suitable English language qualification. Examples include:

• IELTS: 7.0 overall with no less than 6.5 in all components
• IELTS Indicator: 7.0 with 6.5 in each component
• TOEFL IBT: 100 overall with a minimum 24 in all 4 components
• TOEFL iBT and iBT Special Home Edition: 100 overall with 24 in each component
• The Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic): 69 with no less than 62 in any element
• The Pearson Test of English Academic Online (PTE Academic Online): we do not accept this qualification
• Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE): 185 with no less than 176 in all elements
• Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE): 185 with no less than 176 in all elements
• Duolingo (taken up to 1 July 2024): 130 overall with sub scores of Literacy 130, Comprehension 140, Conversation 125, Production 110
• Duolingo (taken after 1 July 2024): 130 overall with sub scores of Literacy 130, Comprehension 130, Conversation 130, Production 130
• LanguageCert SELT: C1 Expert Pass in both the Speaking test and the Listening, Reading, and Writing test

See the full list of accepted English qualifications.

Develop your professional skills

We work to provide you with the skills and support to prepare you for employment and further study. You will develop knowledge about potential future careers and learn relevant skills through a range of opportunities and training, including:

• guest speakers from external agencies
• networking
• data generation and analysis
• research critique
• field trips
  

Prepare for your future

Many of our Department of Social & Policy Sciences graduates have gone on to work as social and policy researchers, civil servants, international consultants, journalists, and accountants.

Examples of where our recent graduates have gone on to work include:

• Barclays
• Bath and North East Somerset Council
• DeHavilland
• Mostly Media
• Sightsavers
• Vodafone