Criminology
Our honours degree programme in criminology focuses on cutting edge, topical and often contentious issues to do with crime and justice.
| Award Name | Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree - Honours Bachelor at UK Level 6 | Open University |
Duration
How long it takes
Part time – 6 years
Full time – 3 years
Time limit – 16 years
Study method: Distance learning.
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you'll need to succeed. If you're not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
This degree is relevant to a wide range of career paths, some of which are listed below. Some relate directly to criminology, while others draw upon the transferable skills that you will acquire throughout the qualification. Successful graduates may also progress to specialist masters courses. While this degree does not guarantee entry to the career fields listed below, it may improve access, increase your employability, and enhance your prospects of career progression.
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• February 2025: Registration closes 09/01/2025
Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
BA (Honours) Criminology
Our honours degree programme in criminology focuses on cutting edge, topical and often contentious issues to do with crime and justice. You'll learn to apply research tools, and access and evaluate qualitative and quantitative data on crime, victimisation and the societal responses to them. With an appreciation of criminological theorising and evidence, you will develop the skills to understand issues of crime and victimisation from new perspectives. You will also develop a critical appreciation of the problems with conventional responses to crime and deviance.
Key features of the course
• Explore contentious issues of crime, harm and criminal justice.
• Evaluate claims made about crime, perpetrators, victims and criminal justice.
• Learn to critically evaluate evidence to better understand criminological problems.
• Examine the role of both theory and research in shaping knowledge about crime and justice.
• Explore criminological topics of your own interest in depth in the final year of study.
We also offer a Diploma of Higher Education in Criminology (W67) that is the same in structure as the first two-thirds of this degree.
This degree has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
• At Stage 1 you’ll study two introductory modules – one with a focus on criminology and one with a focus on social science.
• Next, at Stage 2, you’ll study two modules exploring theories and research methods in criminology and criminal justice.
• Finally, at Stage 3, you’ll study the final two criminology modules. which will include completing a project on a criminological topic that interests you most.
See 'Course Web Page' link below for more information on modules.
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills.
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.