Criminology (Level 3 Applied)

WHAT YOU STUDY

There are four units – two internally assessed (controlled conditions) and two examination based.

Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime

This unit reviews impressions of criminality and how reporting affects the public perception of criminality. Students will need to understand how campaigns are used to elicit change in law and plan their campaigns for a change in a specific law.

Unit 2: Criminological Theories

Looking at criminal behaviour and deviance, and how they are constructed or rooted in biological factors. Students will analyse situations of criminality and explain how these may cause criminality. They will ultimately assess how criminological theories inform Government policy development. 

Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom

Understanding the process of criminal investigations, prosecutions of suspects, and to review criminal cases.

Unit 4: Crime and Punishment

This unit looks at the systems which make and apply the law in the UK including models of criminal justice, social control, and punishment. Students will be able to explain the role of various agencies in achieving social order.

HOW YOU STUDY

The examinations use a combination of short answer and short essay-style questions. We will split our teaching strategies to support students in developing the literacy skills needed to achieve distinction level responses, while also supporting the centre assessed projects. We have Written bespoke texts for the new specifications to personalise the support for our students. All assessment is supported with clear developmental feedback, and students are encouraged in their reflections upon this.

PROGRESSION TO UNIVERSITY/CAREERS

Criminological understanding is becoming much more prominent as we move through the 21st Century. Education, caring professions, and the business world are all beginning to tap into the understanding of criminology. Universities respect the approaches of the research undertaken in our discipline, and there is growing respect for the comprehensive nature of criminology.

OUR SUCCESSES

Over the last two years 70% of A-Level students have achieved a grade C or above and 1 in 4 have achieved a grade A or B. The Criminology team take pride in their ability to reflect and understand the requirements of the public examinations. Our students experience a positive learning environment where we balance detailed knowledge, precise assessment and a supportive learning space.

DEPARTMENT STRENGTHS AND RESOURCES

We have a strong team of Criminologists, who are all subject specialists in the areas they teach. Our assessment practise and the understanding that our teachers have about the processes of external examination enables our students to focus upon the core skills for success. We have written the majority of the resources ourselves, so that they are tailored specifically for the courses we provide.