Criminology

Throughout the study of criminology, students explore the multifaceted term ‘crime’ with a view to conceptualising, contextualising and analysing crime from a range of perspectives.

The subject matter of criminology is not a fixed constant, and the discipline’s concerns evolve with social change and developing case and statute law. It allows students to view crime through a variety of disciplinary lenses; sociological, psychological, historical, legal, social policy and political perspectives.

The study of criminology provides learners with detailed knowledge of the theories of crime, different forms of crime and the criminal justice system. This provides students with a solid foundation for further study at degree level and the necessary skills for successful employment in this field.

The criminology curriculum develops powerful knowledge of crime and the criminal justice system, allowing learners to root their understanding in authentic case studies.

The applied nature of the course demands learners to think and behave like criminologists, with two units founded on independent research and responding to a fictitious brief in a time-limited assessment. Each unit coherently builds on prior knowledge and assessment is synoptic which requires learners to identify and use an appropriate selection of skills, techniques, concepts, theories, and knowledge from across the course.

A wealth of extracurricular opportunities to enrich their knowledge and skills in this course means many learners develop a real passion for true crime. Every opportunity is taken to root learning in the context of authentic case studies, meaning students have memorable and powerful learning experiences.

Developing Character, Courage and Conscience in Criminology

• We develop learners with courage; criminologists have the courage to challenge theories and perceptions of crime, including those that are rooted in different cultures, time periods and contexts. They are independent thinkers who solve problems using their acquired knowledge and present in an informed and coherent way.
• We develop learners with character; criminologists are independent and critical thinkers, who engage with challenging case studies and complex theories demonstrating resilience. They are reflective, ambitious, and resilient, always eager to develop their own awareness of crime through authentic case studies and expert literature.
• We develop learners with conscience; criminologists question the concepts of morality, law, and justice, developing their own opinions and articulating these in discussion with respect. They develop confidence in independent research and presentation.

The curriculum overview for each year group can be downloaded below.