7 Things You Need to Know About Studying Criminology
In this blog, UCEN Manchester Tutor Angela Tobin answers 7 common questions and clears up a few misconceptions relating to Criminology degrees so you get a better understanding of Criminology.
I’m truly passionate about Criminology, it’s a dynamic and exciting subject that allows you to understand and make sense of issues relating to crime, social justice, politics and harms in society.
It’s also rewarding to be able to support aspiring Criminologists and I hope that the information I’ve shared in this Q&A will help you to decide if a Criminology degree is right for you.
With an average salary of £23,500-£26,000, Criminology can be an incredibly rewarding and interesting career, where each day is different. If you’re looking to enter the criminology industry and want to find out more - read on.
1. Who studies Criminology?
You might be surprised who you’re studying alongside if you enrol on a Criminology degree. Criminology will prepare you to pursue a career in a range of criminal justice professions.
For example, policing, prison and probation services, victim support and a variety of other roles that provide assistance for offenders.
Part of the work we do to prepare our students for industry work involves giving them the chance to speak to and engage with practitioners, so they can learn first-hand about how criminal justice policies are applied.
We do this by inviting guest speakers to deliver lectures. We also arrange visits to prisons and Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s Violence Reduction Unit.
2. What can Criminology degrees do?
The short answer is: a lot. Criminology degrees are one of those qualifications that can broaden your career horizons.
If you study a Criminology degree you’re not limited to a career in criminal justice – as much as that appeals to some.
Our graduates have gone on to secure exciting roles in social work, teaching and journalism. There's also the opportunity to transition to a postgraduate course in a number of subjects, including Law.
Some other careers include:
- Law Enforcement: Police officer, detective
- Criminal Justice and Private Security: Prosecutor, public defender, probation officer, parole officer, private investigator
- Academia: Professor, researcher, lecturer
- Social Work: Social worker, counsellor
- Government Agencies: Intelligence analyst, crime analyst
- Corrections: Correctional officer, prison administrator
With a Criminology Diploma in Higher Education, there are many different exciting career paths available to you!
Read more: Criminology Course Has Shown Laura A Pathway To Helping Young Offenders
3. What do you learn on a Criminology degree?
Can you be a CSI with a Criminology degree?
If I had a pound for every time I’ve been asked this question…
One of the myths surrounding Criminology degrees is that Criminologists are interested in studying crime scenes – like you see on the TV.
That’s not something you’ll learn on one of our Criminology degrees, but what we are interested in is opening your eyes to the effects police and state failings have on society.
We’ll cover everything from inequality to prejudice, and how this impacts our day-to-day lives.
The heart of Criminology is that crime is what the law says it is, but as we all know, the law changes over time and they’re often made by those in positions of privilege, wealth, and power.
What topics does a Criminology degree course cover?
| Course Title | Course Description |
|---|---|
| Conflict or Cohesion? Debates in Equality and Community in Modern Britain | Explore issues related to equality, inequality, and community cohesion in modern Britain. Analyse the impact of the 2010 Equality Act and examine challenges and strategies for maintaining community harmony. |
|
Negotiated Research |
Conduct an in-depth research project on a criminology-related topic. Develop research skills, conduct literature reviews, formulate research proposals, collect and analyse data, and write a dissertation. |
| Substance Misuse, Mental Health, and Crime | Examine the history of prohibition laws and the connections between substance misuse, mental health, and crime. Analyse the state's responses to substance misuse from both enforcement and support perspectives. |
Read more: Criminology Students Discover How Emerging Drug Trends Impact Our Communities
4. Is Criminology a good degree?
Before I answer this question, I must confess that I’m extremely biased.
Criminology degrees are stimulating and cover issues that have a tangible impact on society. Our students are really passionate about the topics that we cover, and this stimulates healthy, engaging debates and opens you up to new ways of thinking.
If you’re interested in a career in any of the areas I’ve mentioned, I couldn’t encourage you enough to seriously consider a Criminology degree and I’d love the chance to talk to you about why our courses are a great option, which will provide you with unique experiences and opportunities.
From small class sizes to visits to education departments in young offenders institutions – you’ll never be bored!
5. Can you do a foundation degree in Criminology?
Yes, you can do a foundation degree in Criminology. At UCEN Manchester, we offer a foundation degree programme designed to help individuals enter the field of Criminology and pursue their dream degree.
A foundation year in Criminology provides a solid foundation of knowledge and skills, preparing you for further study a criminology course at university.
Read our blog to discover how Ben grows in confidence on our Criminology and Social Justice foundation degree course.
Can you do an Access to Higher Education course in Criminology?
While we don’t offer a specific Access to HE course in Criminology, you can do an Access to HE course in Law, Politics and Crime, which prepares you for Criminology at degree level.
If you want to study at degree level - there are many routes to higher education for every learner! If you need guidance on discovering the right path for you, contact our helpful team!
6. What are the entry requirements for a Criminology degree?
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| UCAS Tariff Points | 64 points |
|
Level 3 Qualification |
Equivalent to a Criminology, Social Sciences, Public Services, A Level, or related subject (contact the course tutor for more details) |
7. Which higher education provider is the best to study Criminology?
At UCEN Manchester, we offer an exceptional Criminology programme with unparalleled support. Our dedicated tutors, combined with small class sizes, ensure you receive personalised attention throughout your degree.
Benefit from our strong industry connections, gaining valuable insights and networking opportunities. Located in the heart of Manchester, our campus provides a vibrant and stimulating learning environment.
Find out more information about the Criminology courses available at UCEN Manchester and apply now.
Alternatively, get in touch with our team today.
