Criminology
Level 3

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Awarding Body: WJEC

Qualification Level(s)

Available as:

  • Certificate (1 year, equivalent to an AS level)
  • Diploma (2 years, equivalent to an A level)

Course Description

This exciting course allows you to explore the causes of criminal behaviour, attitudes to crime, criminal investigations and the wider social impacts of campaigns for change. Criminology could well be an appropriate subject option for students interested in other social sciences and law.

There are no additional entry requirements for this course. Please refer to the basic entry requirements for this course/level.

As an international student you must:

  • Demonstrate a suitable level of academic English, normally at CEFR level B1. For Tier Visa applications Portsmouth College recommends a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 overall (with no component lower than 5) to best succeed in your studies.
  • Demonstrate that you are competent to study at Level 3 in your chosen subjects during your application, including certificates of your qualifications and subject specific requirements such as evidence of an art portfolio for entry on to one of our Art courses.
  • Successfully complete a Skype interview with the College to discuss and assess your choices.

There are four main elements to the course:

  • Changing Awareness of Crime – how our understanding of and attitudes to crime have changed over time
  • Criminological Theories – explanations of criminal behaviour
  • Crime Scene to Courtroom – police procedures and preparations for trial
  • Crime and Punishment – the criminal justice system

Please note that this is very much a social science course, exploring behaviour and attitudes in the field of crime. You will also be looking at criminal investigations and legal procedures. This is not a forensic science course.

Students will develop their analytical skills by exploring examples such as campaigns for change and delving into the usefulness of criminological theories. Controlled assessments reinforce English skills such as persuasive language and report writing technique. Exam technique for Criminology exams draws specifically on technical language learnt in lessons and focus on the command words is key to succeeding.

50% exam / 50% controlled assessment

  • Year 1 – Unit 1 is a controlled assessment
  • Year 1 – Unit 2 is an exam
  • Year 2 – Unit 3 is a controlled assessment
  • Year 2 – Unit 4 is an exam

The E6 Programme exists to support students and improve their future chances in the employment field and in Higher Education. You will be encouraged to take on volunteer work or work experience in order to enhance your future prospects, which the programme can support you with. These are valuable additions to your CV and and can be a whole lot of fun!

Criminology explores an array of different theories and each unit focuses on a separate element to crime in our society. This broadens possible career choices for students. Students who go to university with this course usually study combinations with law and other social sciences. Alternative pathways include becoming a police officer or combining the course with public services, as well as social care type courses and degrees.

Controlled assessments occur in December. Exams take place in May.