Criminology (BSc)

at Cardiff University

Course structure

We are currently working with our students to update and improve the content of this course. The information shown below reflects the current curriculum and is likely to change. The review of the course is expected to be completed by August 2022 and this page will be updated by end of October 2022 to reflect the changes.

This is a three-year, full-time course consisting of 120 credits a year. The final degree classification that you are awarded is based on the grades you achieve in the modules that you take in years two and three.

In year one, you will lay the foundations for later specialist study, taking a number of core modules and following a study skills programme designed to help you make the transition to higher education. In years two and three, you will be encouraged to study and learn more independently, giving you the opportunity to read more widely and to develop your own interests. The final year also includes a compulsory 40-credit dissertation. 

The modules shown are an example of the typical curriculum and will be reviewed prior to the 2022/2023 academic year. The final modules will be published by September 2022.

Year one
You will take five core 20-credit modules in Year One. These are designed to introduce you to the key ideas and research in Criminology and to teach you the skills needed to succeed at university. You will also have the opportunity to take one additional module from within the School to make up the full 120 credits you need to complete Year One.

In the first year, you will meet your personal tutor who will help you to make the transition to higher education and support you throughout your time with us.

Year two
You will take three 20-credit core modules covering Criminology and social research methods, as well as three more 20-credit optional modules from a selection across the social sciences. A credit-bearing placement module is also available. Your personal tutor will help you to choose modules that best suit your interests and future career choices.

Year three
Your final year will consolidate your knowledge and allow you to continue to explore topics that best suit your future career aspirations.  Of the 120 credits available, you will take at least three core 20-credit modules in Criminology and a 40-credit dissertation. A dissertation involves designing, conducting and writing-up a small-scale research project under the supervision of a member of academic staff. Your remaining 20 credits can be taken from a range of options modules across the School.

A level
AAB-ABB

Extended/International Project Qualification: Applicants with grade A in the EPQ/IPQ will typically receive an offer one grade lower than the standard A level offer. Please note that any subject specific requirements must still be met.

International Baccalaureate
34-32 overall or 666-665 in 3 HL subjects.

GCSE
Grade C or grade 4 in GCSE English Language.

IELTS (academic)
At least 6.5 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each subskill.

TOEFL iBT
At least 90 overall with minimum scores of 17 for writing, 17 for listening, 18 for reading and 20 for speaking.

PTE Academic
At least 62 overall with a minimum of 59 in all communicative skills.

Trinity ISE II/III
II: at least two Distinctions and two Merits.
III: at least a Pass in all components.

Tuition fees for 2022 entry

Fees for home status

• £9,000    

Fees for overseas status

• £18,700    

We are committed to helping you achieve your professional ambitions, encouraging you to think about life beyond university from day one. Our degree programmes offer modules and support to give you a competitive advantage on graduating.

Turning theory into practical application and providing experience of the working world are important aspects of all our degree schemes, which will help to prepare our graduates for life after higher education.

We also offer bespoke career support to our students at every stage of study and after their graduation. Our dedicated careers advisors deliver a tailored range of careers events throughout the year.

Our Criminology graduates have gone onto a range of related careers in criminal justice and the growing fields of community safety, crime reduction and security management. Others have followed a variety of career paths including research, teaching, policing, legal professions, social work and social care, administration and management.

Graduate careers

• Educational Psychologist
• Youth and Community Work
• Police and Probation Service
• Careers Guidance
• Human Resource Management
• Speech Therapist
• Market and Policy Researcher