Criminology and Criminal Justice (Extended), BA Hons at University of Greenwich

Our extended criminology degree starts with a foundation year to prepare you for degree-level learning. You’ll then study the same modules offered on the three-year course.

The degree will give you an understanding of what causes crime, what its effects are and how it can be prevented. You'll explore the latest social, cultural and political debates surrounding crime through subjects such as security and terrorism, and the criminology of war. This course is also your chance to enter the worlds of crime scene investigation, forensic psychology and criminal profiling.

Our criminology graduates have taken up roles in the police, prison and security services, and Home Office.

What you should know about this course

•  This course includes a foundation year and helps you to access a degree in this subject with a lower entry tariff
•  Explore the social, cultural and political debates surrounding crime, victimisation and deviance, including some of the main controversies within the discipline.
•  You will enhance your academic knowledge of key issues, including security, terrorism, cybercrime and criminology of war.
•  Learn about crime scene investigation, forensic psychology, criminal profiling, and the UK Criminal Justice System.
•  The optional work placement modules can be in a prison setting or with an agency that is part of / complementary to the Criminal Justice System.

Careers and placements

Will I have a work placement?

You can choose to apply for a 30-credit work placement in your final year alongside your other modules.

How long is my placement?

The 30-credit work placement requires you to gain 150 hours in total.

What are the financial arrangements?

Credit-bearing work placements are unpaid.

What sort of careers do graduates pursue?

This degree sets graduates up for a wide range of professions. Many students go into human services (including the police and prison, probation and security services, youth offending services, or drug and alcohol counselling) as well as the Home Office, UK Visas and Immigration, and HM Revenue & Customs.

Alternative career paths include social work, child protection, mental health, journalism, civil service, local government, and in NGOs and charities.

The BA (Hons) Criminology & Criminal Justice helps you develop skills in problem-solving, research and communication, providing a solid foundation for other occupations in the public and private sectors.

Are internships available?

There may be work experience opportunities, but students are encouraged to gain relevant work experience if possible, including internships. Students are responsible for finding their own internships, though we will support you through the application process.

Do you provide employability services?

Employability activities take place all the time at Greenwich and students are encouraged to take part in as many opportunities as possible. The central Employability and Careers Service provides support for students preparing to apply for placements and graduate roles, such as CV clinics, mock interviews and employability skills workshops.

Each School also has its own Employability Officer who provides specific opportunities relevant to your own course. They work closely with professionals in the industry to ensure you are well-prepared for the workplace and have already begun to build your professional network by the time you graduate.