Criminal Justice and Criminology with a Year in Professional Practice (subject to Approval)

The BA (Hons) in Criminal Justice and Criminology with a Year in Professional Practice (subject to Approval) at the University of Kent offers students an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system, the nature of crime, and the societal responses to criminal behavior. This innovative program combines academic study with practical experience, enabling students to develop both theoretical knowledge and real-world skills relevant to careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, forensic analysis, and related fields. Throughout the course, students explore key topics such as criminal law, policing, penology, victims and restorative justice, juvenile justice, and the sociological and psychological aspects of criminal behavior. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, analytical capabilities, and ethical awareness, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to criminal justice agencies and organizations.

A distinctive feature of this program is the Year in Professional Practice, which is subject to approval, giving students the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience in professional settings. During this year, students undertake placements or internships with criminal justice agencies, such as police forces, probation services, court services, or crime prevention organizations. This practical placement allows students to apply their academic knowledge to real-world scenarios, develop professional networks, and enhance their employability upon graduation. The placement year is carefully supervised and integrated into the program to ensure students gain meaningful and relevant experience, making them well-prepared for careers or postgraduate study.

The course is delivered by experienced academic staff who bring extensive research, professional expertise, and industry connections to their teaching. The program’s structure includes lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent study, encouraging active participation and personalized learning. Students also have access to the university’s research resources, dedicated criminology labs, and external partnerships, fostering a dynamic and engaging learning environment.

Graduates of this program will be equipped with a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of crime and justice, along with practical skills that meet the demands of modern criminal justice systems. The program’s strong emphasis on employability, ethical practice, and societal impact makes it an ideal choice for students aspiring to contribute positively to society through roles in law enforcement, criminal justice policy, forensic analysis, or further academic research. With its focus on both academic excellence and practical application, the BA (Hons) in Criminal Justice and Criminology with a Year in Professional Practice prepares students for a meaningful career dedicated to justice, safety, and social well-being.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

Currently there is no course structure information available for this programme.

Year in industry

Students will also be visited twice during their placement to ensure student welfare and that the placement activities are suitable in terms of achieving the programmes learning outcomes. Although students will be responsible for obtaining their own placement, guidance will be offered in the form of tutorial support and access to networks of providers developed and maintained by the School. For further details regarding placement assessment and support please refer to the ‘Criminal Justice Professional Practice Placement’ module specification. Students will also to attend three compulsory placement preparation sessions which are intended to assist them in terms of obtaining their desired placements.

Through studying Criminal Justice and Criminology you acquire many of the transferable skills such as the ability to work independently and in a team, the ability to analyse and interpret complex information, and the confidence to present your arguments persuasively and with sensitivity, that are considered essential for a successful graduate career.

Many career paths are open to you, including crime prevention, the probation service, the prison service, courts, the police, community safety, social services departments, and drug and alcohol services. Some of our students have gone on to postgraduate courses to become lawyers. Others have gone into postgraduate research or jobs with voluntary sector organisations.

The Year in Professional Practice will allow you to put theory into practice and to develop networks and contacts in your area of interest. It is widely recognised that employers seek evidence that graduates have practical and relevant work experience and that graduates benefit from the opportunity to take this time in their third year to gain real work experience.

Requirements

Home/EU students

The University will consider applications from students offering a wide range of qualifications, typical requirements are listed below, students offering alternative qualifications should contact the Admissions Office for further advice. It is not possible to offer places to all students who meet this typical offer/minimum requirement.

• A level:BCC
• Access to HE Diploma:The University of Kent will not necessarily make conditional offers to all access candidates but will continue to assess them on an individual basis. If an offer is made candidates will be required to obtain/pass the overall Access to Higher Education Diploma and may also be required to obtain a proportion of the total level 3 credits and/or credits in particular subjects at merit grade or above.
• BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (formerly BTEC National Diploma):Distinction, Merit, Merit
• International Baccalaureate:34 points overall or 13 points at HL

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Kent.

The BSc in Criminal Justice and Criminology with Year in Professional Practice (subject to Approval) at the University of Kent is a comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the criminal justice system, criminological theories, and the practical skills necessary for a career in criminal justice, law enforcement, or related fields. This programme combines academic study with a year-long professional placement, allowing students to gain valuable real-world experience and apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings. The curriculum covers core areas such as crime and deviance, law enforcement, penal policy, criminal investigation, and the legal framework underpinning the justice system. It also explores contemporary issues like cybercrime, gender and crime, and ethnic minorities in the justice process. The programme is structured to promote critical thinking, analytical skills, and research capabilities, preparing graduates for a range of roles in criminal justice agencies, policy development, or further academic study. The Year in Professional Practice offers students the opportunity to undertake placements with police forces, probation services, courts, or other criminal justice organizations, enhancing employability and providing insights into practical operations. Admission requirements typically include a strong academic record, an interest in criminal justice issues, and a commitment to ethical and professional standards. Students benefit from dedicated faculty expertise, modern facilities, and strong links with criminal justice institutions, facilitating networking and employment opportunities. Graduates from this programme are equipped to contribute effectively to the development of fair, effective, and evidence-based criminal justice policies and practices. Upon completion, students receive a BSc degree from the University of Kent, which is recognized both nationally and internationally. The programme also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from sociology, psychology, law, and politics. Overall, this degree aims to produce well-rounded, informed, and practice-ready professionals dedicated to improving the functioning of the criminal justice system while upholding principles of justice, human rights, and social equity.