COURSE CURRICULUM

The BSc (Hons) Criminology (Extended Degree) at Northumbria University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the knowledge, analytical skills, and practical experience needed to understand crime, victimisation, and societal responses. The foundation year introduces students to key concepts in crime and society, sociological imagination, politics and decision-making, social sciences debates, and research skills, providing a strong base for further study. In the first year, students explore core criminology topics including explaining crime, victims and victimisation, crime myths versus realities, identity and diversity, and the criminal justice system, alongside practical research modules that develop investigative and analytical skills. Academic language support is available for international and EU students. The second year builds on this foundation with modules covering criminology theories and perspectives, contemporary issues in criminality, the criminal justice system, and applied research, with optional modules such as youth crime, drugs and society, sex work, and crime and media. Opportunities for study abroad enhance international understanding and experience. In the final year, students focus on advanced and specialised topics, including contemporary policing, crimes of the powerful, mental health and offending, extreme violence, crime and technology, and social harm, alongside optional dissertations and work-based research projects. The program blends theory, applied research, and practical experience, preparing graduates for careers in criminal justice, social policy, research, and related fields.