Criminology

What will I be learning?

The WJEC Level 3 Diploma in Criminology a fantastic course, that is made up of four units studied over two years (two per year).

Year 12-

Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime (Internally assessed coursework)

• Explore how crime is represented in the media, films, and campaigns.
• Learn why some crimes are unreported and the impact this has.
• Develop skills to plan and design a campaign to raise awareness about a specific crime.

Unit 2: Criminological Theories (Externally assessed exam)

• Investigate why people commit crimes, using psychological and sociological theories.
• Study classic and contemporary theories of criminality.
• Apply these theories to real-life cases and evaluate how useful they are.

Year 13-

Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom (Internally assessed coursework)

• Follow the process of a criminal case, from the moment a crime is identified through to the courtroom trial.
• Learn about the roles of professionals such as police officers, forensic scientists, lawyers, and jurors.
• Understand rules of evidence, how suspects are charged, and how verdicts are reached.

Unit 4: Crime and Punishment (Externally assessed exam)

• Explore the purpose of punishment (e.g. rehabilitation, deterrence, retribution).
• Study how laws are created and enforced in England and Wales.
• Evaluate how effective prisons, community sentences, and other punishments are in reducing crime.

What skills will I develop?

You will gain a wide range of transferable and academic skills, such as:

• Critical thinking – analysing evidence and arguments.
• Problem-solving – applying theories to real-world scenarios.
• Research skills – gathering and evaluating information.
• Communication – presenting arguments clearly in writing and discussion.
• Debating and evaluation – forming balanced judgements on controversial issues.
• Teamwork and independence – working with others and managing your own learning.

What next?

This course supports progression into university study and a variety of careers. Possible pathways include:

• University degrees such as:
  • Criminology
  • Sociology
  • Psychology
  • Law
  • Policing
  • Forensic Science
• Career options such as:
  • Police officer
  • Prison or probation officer
  • Social worker
  • Forensic psychologist
  • Solicitor or barrister (with further study)
  • Youth and community worker
  • Researcher or policy advisor