Criminology with Foundation

Criminology examines crime, deviance, and the social response to them, asking why crime occurs, how it is distributed across communities, how the criminal justice system responds, and whether those responses are effective, just, and consistent. It draws on sociology, psychology, law, and social policy to produce a multidisciplinary understanding of one of the most fundamental challenges facing any society: how to maintain order, protect people from harm, and respond to wrongdoing in ways that are proportionate and fair. This four-year full-time degree at the University of Westminster includes a foundation year entry route, a sandwich placement year, a year abroad, and embedded work placement experience.

The foundation year is designed for students who do not yet meet the standard entry requirements or who are returning to education after a break, providing the academic skills and subject knowledge needed to progress successfully into the honours degree. You will develop a critical understanding of crime and criminality, examining theories of criminal behaviour, the sociology of inequality and deviance, the workings of the police, courts, and prisons, and the policy debates that surround criminal justice. The sandwich year, year abroad, and work placement experience give you professional and international exposure that enriches your academic formation and strengthens your graduate profile.

An entry tariff of 88 UCAS points reflects an inclusive admissions approach. Graduates from criminology programmes move into careers in probation and criminal justice services, the police, social work, policy research, the voluntary sector, journalism, education, and a range of other public-facing roles. Many continue to postgraduate study in criminology, social policy, law, or social work.