Criminology
(BA) Criminology
Entry for 2026
FHEQ level
This course is set at Level 6 in the national Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.
Course learning outcomes
Explain major criminological concepts and theories, and their potential application
Critically evaluate competing criminological explanations theories and concepts in a variety of national and international contexts
Explain major sociological concepts and theories and be able to relate criminological concepts, theories and findings to this sociological tradition
Demonstrate knowledge of the structure, processes and and practices of the criminal justice system of England and Wales
Analyse the significance of social inequalities and social diversity for processes of criminalisation, victimisation and social control
Reflect on the relationship between criminological theory and concepts, and empirical data
Identify major methods of data collection in social research, and assess the appropriateness of their use in different contexts
Formulate criminological questions and plan how to answer them
Select and use appropriate research methods (including questionnaires, interviews, observation and documentary analysis)
Distinguish between ethical and unethical research practice
Make simple analyses of quantitative and qualitative data using appropriate methods
Communicate research findings to an academic audience
Critically discuss criminological topics drawing on criminological theory, and relevant evidence and empirical examples, and present the conclusions in a variety of academic formats such as essays, examinations, presentations and portfolios
Explain and critically evaluate how far criminological concepts, theories and empirical research findings are relevant to policy questions in national and international contexts
For information on the composition of this course please see either the on-line Undergraduate prospectus for undergraduate related courses or the on-line Postgraduate prospectus for postgraduate related courses.
More detailed information on the course structure and modules within this degree will be available on this page shortly.
Please note that the University will use all reasonable endeavours to deliver courses and modules in accordance with the descriptions set out here. However, the University keeps its courses and modules under review with the aim of enhancing quality. Some changes may therefore be made to the form or content of courses or modules shown as part of the normal process of curriculum management.
The University reserves the right to make changes to the contents or methods of delivery of, or to discontinue, merge or combine modules, if such action is reasonably considered necessary by the University. If there are not sufficient student numbers to make a module viable, the University reserves the right to cancel such a module. If the University withdraws or discontinues a module, it will use its reasonable endeavours to provide a suitable alternative module.