Foundation Degree in Criminology

Required qualifications

Applicants should have a minimum of 3 GCSEs (Grade C or above) which include English or Welsh, mathematics or a science subject, as well as a Level 3 qualification such as a BTEC National Diploma or A Levels that are equivalent or higher than 64 UCAS points.

What skills will I develop?

Throughout the programme, you’ll develop essential skills that are highly valued in the professional world. You’ll become adept at independent learning and problem-solving, while also honing your abilities in project-based research, development, and presentation. Working alongside other professionals in a vocational context will further prepare you for the collaborative nature of criminology careers. These skills will not only enhance your academic experience but also equip you with the tools needed to excel in your future career.

You will cover a range of topics on programme including but not limited to the below:

• Crime Prevention
• Essential Skills for Criminology
• Theories of Crime and Justice
• The Criminal Justice Process
• Offender Management
• Crime, Harm and Victimisation
• Media and Crime
• Applied Research Project
• Understanding Criminal Justice Sector Organisations

Careers

The criminology field offers a plethora of career opportunities, especially in the West Midlands, where there are over 500 job openings with an average salary of £29,938. Whether you aspire to become a probation officer or prison officer/youth justice worker, our programme provides the foundational knowledge and skills to pursue these roles. Dive into topics such as criminal behaviour, the criminal justice model, types of crime, and public perception of crime, and prepare yourself for a rewarding career in criminology.

Upon completion of the 2 year Foundation Degree course at Levels 4 and 5, you will have the option to move onto the Level 6 with the University of Staffordshire.

Work experience

Work experience forms an integral part of the programme with a minimum aim of 70 hours placement across each year of study required as part of the Understanding Justice Sector Organisations and the Professional Issues in Criminal Justice modules.

Within these modules, you will explore the nature of organisations within the criminal justice sector looking into how they operate and experiencing what it is like to work within them. You will explore several theoretical and practical issues around professional practice; you will learn the core values and behaviours expected when working in any criminal justice environment, and how to navigate culture. These modules are designed to enhance employability of students by giving them real world industry experience. Having a work-based learning placement embedded within each year of study significantly enhances student achievement by bridging the gap between academic theory and professional practice. These placements provide students with direct exposure to real-world environments in criminal and social justice organisations or working in community safety, allowing them to apply classroom learning to practical situations.

English and maths

As a higher education course, it is expected that you have good English and maths skills in order to gain access to the course. Whilst on the course you will continue to develop and enhance these skills throughout each module with both English and maths embedded in all delivery. Your use of English to help to communicate your knowledge and understanding of the subject will be a focus of all feedback and instruction. We will also work with you to develop your academic writing and your professional communication skills. It is recognised that all students have differing abilities and challenges to face with their English and maths skills and you will be able to take advantage of an extensive network of support and assistance in this area from the college.

Other important information

Upon completion of the 2 year Foundation Degree course at Levels 4 and 5, you will have the option to move onto the Level 6 with the University of Staffordshire.