BA (HONOURS) Criminology and Sociology at Sheffield Hallam University

• Learn analytical and research skills for understanding the nature of crime, society and the factors shaping social change.
• Understand the real-life applications of theory to experience and behaviour in the social world.
• Develop personal and transferable skills for enhancing employability and graduate attributes.

This joint degree brings together two related subjects, examining criminological and sociological explanations and asking how they can be applied to the real world. You're introduced to new developments in the field and are encouraged to tailor your studies to reflect your own specialist interests.

You start with foundation learning in key areas from both subjects, including crime, society, social behaviour, offending behaviour and criminal and social justice. You then use this core understanding as well as academic, research and personal skills to develop specialist criminological and sociological knowledge.

You learn through

• lectures
• class-based discussion and debate
• group tasks
• projects
• simulation
• case study analysis

There are opportunities to study abroad at one of our partner universities with the possibility of funding through the Erasmus programme (subject to the UK’s continued participation in the Erasmus programme following the Brexit transition period).

Work placements

To maximise your career prospects in this area, you will have various opportunities for work-related learning during the course. Employability and placement opportunities are embedded across all three years of the degree course. These include student placement modules and activities with criminal justice/third sector agencies, project work with external agencies, simulation modules, and voluntary work through our employability fair. You will also have access to degree-specific careers advice and support.

International opportunities

You will have the opportunity to study abroad for the second semester of your second year, at institutions in Australia, USA or Canada. You will choose modules that you wish to study, and get the chance to learn about different cultures and learning styles, as well as travel to new places and meet new people.

Networking opportunities

The Helena Kennedy Centre ensures that teaching focuses directly and indirectly on ethical and social justice issues related to the social exclusion/inclusion of a range of vulnerable groups and on promoting social access to all available community resources. You are provided with career-related support from department specialists who help with access to graduate opportunities.

Future careers

This course prepares you for a career in

• the police service
• the probation service
• the prison service
• youth work
• victim support work
• citizens advice work
• community liaison work
• civil service and local government