What will I study?
Criminology is the study of crime which draws primarily upon the research of psychologists, sociologists, as well as scholars of law. The purpose of the WJEC Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology is to provide learners with an introduction to criminal justice. It is an applied A Level which can be taken alongside other A Levels and vocational courses.
Learners will study 4 mandatory units:
- Unit 1: changing awareness of crime - an understanding of different types of crime, influences on perceptions of crime and why some crimes are unreported.
- Unit 2: criminological theories - an understanding of biological, sociological and psychological explanations of crime and how such theories have been used to inform policies.
- Unit 3: crime scene to courtroom - an understanding of the criminal justice system from the moment a crime has been identified to the verdict. Learners will develop the understanding and skills needed to examine information to review the justice of verdicts in criminal cases.
- Unit 4: crime and punishment- learners will apply their understanding of the awareness of criminality, criminological theories and the process of bringing an accused to court in order to evaluate the effectiveness of social control to deliver criminal justice policy.
How will I be assessed?
Learners must pass all 4 units to be awarded the Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology.
- Unit 1 and 3: both assessed through an 8-hour controlled assessment
- Unit 2 and 4: both assessed through an hour and a half examination that is worth 90 marks
Opportunities in this subject
This course can support progression to an exciting array of destinations, including degree level study in subjects such as Criminology, Sociology, Psychology and Law. Students who study Criminology find work in areas such as policing, probation, social work and forensic sciences.
