Criminology (BA (Hons)) at University College Cork

The Criminology BA is a window on the world, giving insight into human diversity in complex societies and a textured view of our propensity to err, conflict, blame and punish. 

This contemporary course combines key topics in the social sciences and law – such as crime, deviance, morality, conflict, censure and justice – with philosophy, history, cultural studies and a language. The result is an exceptional breadth and depth of perspective and context. 

This is a research-driven, interdisciplinary programme that delivers an international body of knowledge, as well as research skills and critical thinking. The programme provides a strong intellectual background for anyone thinking of working in culturally sensitive areas such as policing, prisons, social work, journalism, politics, research, care, health and justice agencies, support groups, charities, film or television.

Choose this course if you later want to work in your society to confront its social problems on the basis of a sophisticated analysis of crime, moral regulation and social deviance and if you want to develop a professional approach to bad behaviour, discipline and justice.

Placement or Study Abroad Information

You will have the option of adding a year to this three-year degree by studying abroad in Year 3.

We currently have links with universities in the following countries: Canada, Denmark, Italy, Poland, Sweden, USA and the UK

You will return to UCC to complete your final year.

Skills and Careers Information

Students on this course will develop skills in critical thinking, comparative and cultural analysis, research methods and statistics. They will also strengthen their grasp of the role of history and examine the basis of moral justifications.

This skill set is invaluable for sensitive occupations such as:

• policing
• prisons
• probation
• social work
• social administration
• security work
• charities
• journalism
• television and film
• politics
• community development