COURSE CURRICULUM

This Criminology and Education Studies degree combines the study of crime, justice systems and social behaviour with a multidisciplinary exploration of education through sociology, psychology, history and philosophy. In criminology, you will examine how and why individuals are labelled as offenders and how criminal justice institutions such as policing, courts, sentencing, probation and rehabilitation operate within broader political and social contexts. You will critically analyse how issues such as class, gender, race and ethnicity influence experiences of crime, victimisation and justice, while also engaging with key theories of criminological thought and real-world applications such as policing, penology, youth justice and cybercrime. In education studies, you will investigate how education systems have developed over time and how teaching, learning, curriculum design and policy are shaped by social, cultural and historical forces, including debates around inequality, achievement and alternative educational approaches. The programme places strong emphasis on research and applied learning, with modules in criminological and social research methods that develop your ability to design studies, analyse qualitative data and evaluate ethical issues in academic research. You will also engage in practical and reflective learning through activities such as case studies, debates and problem-based tasks that mirror real-world challenges in both criminal justice and education settings. Optional modules allow you to specialise in areas such as forensic psychology, victimology, youth justice, domestic abuse, educational alternatives and the science of learning, helping you tailor the degree to your interests and career goals. In your final year, you complete an independent research project that demonstrates your ability to work autonomously, apply theory to practice and critically engage with your chosen topic. Overall, the course prepares you for careers in criminal justice, education, social policy, community work and related fields by developing strong analytical, research and communication skills grounded in real-world application.