Criminology and Sociology

Are you interested in the relationship between societies and crime? Do you want to explore how societies and crime develop in a global context?

Develop your knowledge and understanding of two major disciplines in the field of social sciences with a Criminology and Sociology degree.

You’ll explore traditional areas such as inequality, social stratification, deviance and punishment, as well as more contemporary concerns such as terrorism, environmentalism, global politics, sexuality and media representation.

We use a range of disciplinary approaches to help you develop your knowledge in contemporary sociological theory and practice, as well as a thorough understanding of the various approaches for responding to and explaining crime.

By combining both disciplines, you'll develop a good grounding in criminology and sociology that keeps your options open for a wide range of careers. At the same time, you'll have the flexibility to focus more closely on the issues that suit you and your career aspirations, such as crime, deviance and social control.

Professional experience is crucial, so you’ll complete professional work placements as part of your degree. We’ll work with you to match you with one of our employer partners, or we’ll support you in finding your own placement and developing your professional networks through our contacts in the sector. You could also spend a semester at one of our international partner institutions through our Study Abroad programme.

Outside of your degree, you’ll have the opportunity to take specialist employability skills courses to enhance your CV and help you stand out in a competitive job market. These optional short courses blend theory and practical application, so you’ll develop real-world knowledge and expertise as well as the confidence needed to excel in your chosen career in law enforcement, offender rehabilitation, intelligence analysis, social justice or the wider criminal justice system.

Professional work placements Our students have completed placements at HM Prison Service, Leeds City Council anti-social behaviour projects, crime prevention projects and with charities that support ex-offenders, the homeless, and drug and alcohol abusers.

Graduate opportunities Your degree will prepare you for roles within a wide range of organisations and sectors, including the police service, HM Prison Service, rehabilitation services, emergency and security services, local government, public relations, community work, charities and education.