Criminology BSc (Hons)

University of Bath

Explore issues facing us in the 21st century relating to crime and criminal justice. Develop research and data handling skills relevant to a range of careers.This degree has a strong global focus. You’ll explore crime and related topics from around the world, including human rights and terrorism, social justice, contemporary social problems, and the globalisation of crime.You’ll develop an in-depth knowledge of how the various components of the criminal justice system work, from the police through to prison and probation. As well as a strong theoretical grounding, the course is designed to equip you with practical skills in critical enquiry, research and data generation.Studying at Bath means you’ll get to work with a leading team of criminal justice researchers and criminologists, with significant global expertise. There’s also the chance to hone your skills further by doing a placement year in a relevant setting.In your first year you'll study crime and justice from a theoretical and practical perspective. Develop an understanding of how key criminal justice agencies work and begin to develop your research skills. Interrogate key criminological concepts, such as victimisation, deviance, and justice.In your second year you'll develop an in-depth knowledge of criminological theory, criminal justice practice and policy, and global crime. Advance your skills in research and data analysis. Study specialist criminology and social science options.In your final year you'll carry out a year-long dissertation. This will give you the opportunity to refine and showcase the knowledge and skills you’ve developed in Years 1 and 2. You'll also study specialist criminology and social science options.This course will particularly appeal if you’re strong on critical thinking. The skills and broad-based understanding you go away with will set you up well for diverse careers - whether you decide to go into the criminal justice sector, a third sector organisation or another field.Study in an enriched learning environmentOur teaching is rigorous, supportive, and creative, and designed to enable you to become a resilient, ethical, and critical-minded social scientist. You’ll learn through a range of student-centred teaching approaches, including lectures, seminars, tutorials and ‘break out’ groups.Prepare for your futureYour acquired knowledge, skills and theoretical grounding will set you up well for diverse careers, whether you decide to go into the criminal justice sector, a third sector organisation or another field. Our social science graduates have found work as social and policy researchers, civil servants, international consultants, journalists, accountants and in a variety of government, charity sector and business-related roles.