Year 1

First year modules are designed to enable you to develop a sound understanding and awareness of the key issues involved in the study of crime. You will attend six core modules which comprise three introductory criminology modules and three core sociology modules. By the end of your first year you should have a good grasp of the key issues that inform the study of crime and society, and should have developed the necessary skills that you need to see you through your degree programme. 

Year 2

The second year builds upon the knowledge that you have gained in your first year by providing the opportunity to study more specialised modules. You will study five core modules and one optional module. The optional module is selected from a list that covers a wide range of criminological topics. A full list of the optional modules available can be found on our core and optional modules page.

Year 3

The third year comprises of only one core module which allows you maximum flexibility and choice. You will be able to choose three optional modules enabling you to tailor your studies to reflect your interests. Alongside your taught modules, you will produce a 10,000 word dissertation focusing on an area of criminology that particularly interests you.

Next step: Find out more about the different modules available

Teaching and Assessment

All modules are taught using a mixture of lectures and seminars. Lectures are designed to provide you with the key aspects of a topic. You will then have the opportunity to explore the topic further and impart this knowledge during discussions in seminars. You will typically have two lectures and one seminar per week for each module. You will also be required to spend approximately 120 hours per module on self-study.

In addition, the Department of Criminology provides online access to teaching resources and administrative support for the BA programme via the University’s virtual learning environment, Blackboard.

All core modules are assessed by a combination of essays and exams, whilst option modules are assessed by essay, presentation and even by podcast.

Next step: Request an information pack and prospectus