Criminology - BA (Hons)

Keele University

Course overview

Pioneers of undergraduate teaching of Criminology in the UK, Keele provides a modern, research informed programme, taught by active criminological researchers. From day one, you will explore themes of crime control, justice, victimisation and harm through contemporary case studies, building your awareness across a range of different perspectives.

Our Criminology programme draws from diverse social and human sciences to offer a comprehensive understanding of the 'crime problem', emphasising problem-based learning, allowing you to apply your knowledge to real-world issues, challenges and situations relating to crime and social justice.

We have developed professional partnerships with a range of criminal justice agencies, including the police, probation services, and prisons that provide you with opportunities to hear from, and network with, those working in criminal justice related fields. There are also opportunities for you to gain work experience through placements.

This programme is designed to equip you with transferable skills to make a positive social impact as an independent scholar and critical thinker, working effectively with peers and practitioners on collaborative group projects. You will build a personal sense of social and ethical responsibility and the skills to strive for, and enact, social change.

At Keele, you will have a variety of opportunities to enhance your academic and professional development. Whether you wish to broaden your horizons by studying abroad, learn a foreign language, or complete a work placement year for industry experience, you can tailor your degree programme based on your future career aspirations.

Foundation Year:

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

Work Placement Year

During your studies, you will have the opportunity to opt for a Work Placement Year in the School of Social Sciences between Year 2 and Year 3, or to take a Work Placement Module.

This will allow you to apply your knowledge and practical skills in a workplace environment, enabling you to build key skills in communication, teamwork and project management. You will be able to demonstrate your abilities and creative thinking, working with fellow professionals as well as independently.

Study Abroad

International Semester or International Year

On this programme, you will have the exciting opportunity to study for a semester or year abroad at a partner university. Our Global Opportunities team will support you through the process, ensuring you are able to get the most out of your international experience.

Choosing to study abroad can enhance your career prospects and help in your employment search to stand out from the crowd. Your experience overseas will broaden your perspectives and approach to learning, enabling you to expand your skillset and mindset towards both personal and professional opportunities.

Your future career

As a Keele Criminology graduate, you will become equipped with a suite of transferable skills, aligned to your chosen career path or further study and training.

Your expertise as a critical thinker and problem-solver will enable you to hit the ground running, applying your knowledge in your desired role, across diverse social disciplines such as policing, probation, criminal justice and youth justice.