BA Criminology

About this course

Criminology is the systematic study of crime as a social phenomenon. It draws on sociology, psychology, law, and political science to ask fundamental questions about why some acts are defined as criminal, why crime is distributed unevenly across society, what motivates individuals and groups to offend, and how criminal justice institutions respond to crime, with what justifications and what effects. Criminologists use theory to explore some of the most contentious issues in contemporary society, working to understand the causes of crime and the way in which criminal justice agencies respond to offenders. At the University of Lincoln, this part-time programme develops your ability to engage with criminological theory and empirical research, building the analytical and critical skills to examine crime and criminal justice seriously rather than through the lens of popular myth or media representation. You will study the sociology and psychology of crime, theories of punishment and rehabilitation, victimology, policing, sentencing policy, prisons, and the political dimensions of criminal justice reform. The programme is offered on a part-time basis, giving you flexibility to balance your studies with work or other commitments. The programme also includes a sandwich year, a year abroad, and a work placement, giving you substantial professional and international experience alongside your academic study. These elements allow you to apply your criminological understanding in professional contexts and to encounter how different societies approach crime and criminal justice. Graduates from criminology degrees pursue careers across criminal justice and related fields. Common destinations include probation, youth justice, police service, social work, prison service, criminal justice research, policy, victim support organisations, and the voluntary sector. The analytical and research skills developed through criminology are also valued in journalism, policy analysis, and public sector management. Postgraduate study in criminology, social work, law, or a related field is a natural route for those who wish to develop further expertise.

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