Criminology,BSc (Hons)

    Criminology,BSc (Hons)

    Duration4 year(s)
    Tuition Fee
    GBP 29,864 / Year
    Next IntakeSeptember 1, 2026
    Criminology,BSc (Hons)

    About

    Course overview

    Studying BSc (Hons) Criminology at Aston University will develop your understanding of crime and the criminal justice system with a focus on social inequality, harm and deviance. This critical criminology programme emphasises employability and digital skills, equipping you with the tools to analyse crime in the context of societal changes.

    You will explore key criminological theories, research methods and contemporary issues such as policing, punishment and victimology. Our research-active staff, experts in their fields, ensure that your learning is informed by the latest research.

    The integrated placement year bridges theory and practice, providing you with invaluable real-world experience in the UK or abroad. This hands-on experience enhances your skills and prepares you for a range of professional roles within the criminal justice system and beyond.

    BSc (Hons) Criminology

    Our BSc (Hons) Criminology degree at Aston University explores crime, justice and social inequality, emphasising critical analysis, employability and digital skills for addressing contemporary societal issues.

    What we will provide
    First-class teaching in the UK’s second-largest city, delivered by a diverse array of staff who will inspire and excite you. You will benefit from applied learning, research-informed teaching and authentic assessment. As a student on this programme, you will be one of the first to know about advancements in topical research by staff across the department, even before it is published.

    We are also an Adobe Creative Campus meaning you will have access to top-notch software licenses, including Adobe and Solidworks, commonly used in industry.

    What you will provide
    It is important you learn how to adapt a growth mindset to your studies – understanding that intelligence and success come from applying yourself, a willingness to learn and an ambition and drive to excel.

    What skills we teach
    You will develop critical thinking, analytical and research skills, along with a deep understanding of social inequality, crime and justice. Our graduates are equipped to conduct independent research and communicate effectively, preparing them for impactful careers in criminology and beyond.

    Placement year
    We all know that taking a placement year will boost your employability – it’s what makes Aston University graduates some of the most employable in the country. It’s for this reason that we encourage every student to take one. The placement year gives you the chance to put theory into practice, gain relevant work experience, and develop professional and transferable skills.

    The placement year is compulsory for BSc (Hons) Criminology students. International students can request permission to opt out of the placement year, but we strongly recommend that it is completed where possible.

    Career prospects
    As an Aston University Criminology graduate, you will be equipped for a range of career options. Potential employers include the Home Office, local councils and various non-profits, with possible roles such as probation officer, prison officer, social worker and community development worker.

    Requirements

    Entry Requirements

    You can apply for a Masters programme with an undergraduate degree from a recognised Saudi Arabian University.

    You should have a GPA of 3.6/5.0 Or 2.7/4.0 overall or above from a Saudi Arabian university. The specific requirement will vary depending on the course you are applying for at Aston and the Saudi Arabian university from which you have graduated.

    If you are applying for finance, engineering or science-based subjects, you must have studied a similar field in your undergraduate degree.

    English Program Requirements

    Postgraduate courses

    School / ProgrammeReadingWritingListeningSpeakingOverall
    Aston Business School
    1 band at 5.5 as a minimum. Other bands at 6.0 and above

    6.5

    Aston Business School - MBA
    1 band at 5.5 as a minimum. Other bands at 6.0 and above

    6.5

    School of Social Sciences and Humanities
    1 band at 5.5 as a minimum. Other bands at 6.0 and above

    6.5

    School / ProgrammeReadingWritingListeningSpeakingOverall

    Engineering and Physical Sciences

    5.55.55.55.5

    6.0

    Engineering and Physical Sciences

    (Engineering Systems and Management programmes)

    6.06.06.06.06.5
    Health and Life Sciences6.06.06.06.06.5
    Health and Life Sciences - OSPAP7.07.07.07.07.0

    You may be accepted with a lower IELTS score (see table below) - if your IELTS score meets the minimum criteria below you will be required to take a mandatory in-sessional English module during your course.

    Postgraduate courses (minimum IELTS scores for which mandatory in-sessional English course is required)

    For the courses within the categories below, you may be required to take an in-sessional English module depending on the IELTS scores you have achieved:

    School / ProgrammeReadingWritingListeningSpeakingOverall
    Aston Business SchoolNo more than 2 bands at 5.5 as a minimum. Other bands at 6.0 and above

    6.0*

    Engineering and Physical Sciences - Engineering Systems and Management programmesNo more than 2 bands at 5.5 as a minimum. Other bands at 6.0 and above

    6.0*

    Master of Public Health (MPH)No more than 2 bands at 5.5 as a minimum. Other bands at 6.0 and above

    6.0*

    * Important - Students with an overall 6.0, with no more than two bands at 5.5 and other bands at 6.0 or above are required to take and pass the English for Postgraduate Studies in-sessional English module. Our in-sessional English programme is a module which will help you to improve your English and learn essential academic skills during your first term.

    Students with overall 6.5, with no more than two bands at 6.0 and other bands at 6.5 or above are not required to take our in-sessional English module.

    More about the In-sessional English module

    Aston University is committed to ensuring that every student is fully prepared to take on the challenges of their Master's degree. As such, please note that if you achieve IELTS overall 6.0 (with no more than two bands at 5.5 and other bands at 6.0 or above) or an equivalent acceptable English Language Qualification you will be required to undertake a mandatory timetabled in-sessional English programme to be delivered by Aston University’s Centre for English Language and Communication. Further details will be provided after the enrolment process including timetable and classes you will be required to attend. This is provided at no additional cost.

    Career

    Career prospects

    Our BSc (Hons) Criminology programme will prepare you for diverse career opportunities across the public, private and third sectors. Some potential roles include:

    • Community development worker
    • Prison officer
    • Probation officer
    • Social worker
    • Crime analyst
    • Policy advisor
    • Research officer
    • Youth justice worker

    Graduates may secure positions at organisations like the Home Office, local councils, non-profits or private sector firms, contributing to sectors such as criminal justice, social services, policymaking and community development, making a tangible impact in their chosen fields.

    Fee Information

    Tuition Fee
    29,864 / year
    Criminology,BSc (Hons)
    Aston University
    Aston University
    United Kingdom

    United Kingdom, Birmingham

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