Criminology & Law
This degree takes a critical and analytical view of the role and functions of the legal system, and examines its relationship with crime, harm criminal 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.
| 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 opens up a diverse range of career paths, including:
• advice work
• community development
• the crown prosecution service
• housing services
• human resources
• local and central government
• mental health support and drug rehabilitation
• the police, prison and probation services
• refugee and victim support
• social research and policy analysis
• social and youth work.
You might use your degree to access a law conversion course, to qualify as a solicitor or barrister in England and Wales. Some students choose to undertake further study, such as a postgraduate course.
Outside of criminal justice and legal professions, typical employers include:
• banks and insurance companies
• 'third sector' organisations such as charities
• the NHS
• educational institutions
• HR departments
• local and central government.
Some career paths relate directly to criminology and law, others draw upon the graduate skills that you’ll acquire through this qualification. This degree does not provide direct entry to the career fields listed, but it may ease access and increase your employability in relation to them. It may also enhance your prospects for progression within a chosen field once you are qualified for entry.
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 and Law
Crime, justice and the workings of the law are matters that affect us all and often dominate the news. This degree takes a critical and analytical view of the role and functions of the legal system, and examines its relationship with crime, harm criminal 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 comment on crime, victimisation, and responses to crime and deviance, including policy questions, at national, international and global levels. You'll gain the ability to critically assess everyday understandings of crime, harm and criminal justice, the social, political, economic, historical and ethical dimensions of law, as well as gain knowledge of the key institutions which make up criminal justice and legal systems.
Key features of the course
• Explore the complex issues behind today’s crime, law and justice headlines.
• Understand, interpret and apply concepts about crime and law to 'real world' problems
• Develop transferable employability skills to support career progression.
• Identify where criminal justice and law is failing to provide social justice, fairness and equal opportunities in society.
We also offer a Diploma of Higher Education in Criminology and Law (W52) 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 introductory modules in criminology and in criminal law.
• Next, at Stage 2, you’ll explore public and evidence law, and criminology.
• Finally, at Stage 3, you’ll study crime, social harm, trusts law and one other law module of your choice.
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.