Criminology and American Studies (3 years)

Criminology and American Studies at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive three-year programme that combines the study of criminal justice, crime patterns, and societal responses with an in-depth exploration of American history, culture, politics, and society. This interdisciplinary degree provides students with a unique opportunity to understand the complexities of crime and justice alongside the development of American society, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills essential for careers in law enforcement, policy analysis, academic research, or international relations.

The Criminology component covers key areas such as the causes of crime, criminal behaviour, theories of justice, policing, courts, and penal systems. Students examine contemporary issues like cybercrime, immigration, drug policies, and human rights, gaining insights into how criminal justice systems operate and their impact on society. The programme emphasizes empirical research, enabling students to design and conduct their own investigations, interpret data, and develop evidence-based arguments.

The American Studies part explores a wide range of topics, including American history from early colonization to modern times, political developments, cultural transformations, and social movements. Students analyze American film, literature, media, and political debates, developing a nuanced understanding of the United States' diverse society. The programme also encourages critical engagement with issues such as race, ethnicity, gender, globalization, and identity, fostering global awareness and intercultural competence.

Combining these disciplines enables students to critically examine American societal issues through the lens of criminology, allowing for a deeper understanding of how social, political, and cultural factors influence crime and justice in America. The programme benefits from the university's strong research community, access to extensive libraries, and opportunities for study abroad in the United States, enriching the student experience.

Graduates from this programme are well-equipped for careers in criminal justice agencies, policy development, social research, advocacy organizations, or further academic study in criminology, American studies, law, or international relations. With a curriculum designed to develop analytical, research, and communication skills, students graduate with a broad understanding of the criminal justice system and American society, preparing them for a wide range of professional pathways in an increasingly interconnected world.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

Our courses are characterised by choice and flexibility. Studying at Essex is about discovering yourself, so your course combines compulsory ('core') and optional modules to ensure you gain key knowledge in the discipline while having as much freedom as possible to explore your own interests. Our modules change from year to year in response to new developments and innovation, but our module directory can show you which modules are available to our current students.

Example structure

Because of our interdisciplinary approach, many of our courses offer a wide selection of available modules, often including options from departments other than your own. Your course content will therefore depend on your own unique interests, but the structure below gives an example of what’s available to you.

Year 1

• The Enlightenment
• Introduction to Crime, Law and Society
• Introduction to US – Sociology
• Introduction to US - Politics
• Introduction to US - Literature
• Introduction to US – History

Year 2

• American Studies 2nd year Seminar
• Social Entrepreneurs, Sustainability and Community Action
• Doing Research for a BA Dissertation
• Sociology of Crime and Control
• Crime, Media and Culture
• Punishment, Justice and Modernity

Year 3

• Autumn Term abroad
• American Society: Ethnic Encounters in the Making of the USA
• Globalisation and Crime
• The American Presidency
• Dangerous Ideas : Essays and Manifestos as Social Criticism

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A-levels: ABB-BBB, including A-level subjects which require demonstration of essay writing skills
• GCSE English: C
• IB: 32-30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher level on a case-by-case basis)
• Achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 6 level three credits at distinction and the remainder at merit (or above) or achievement of the Access to HE Diploma with a minimum of 45 level three credits at merit (or above).

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall with minimum 5.5 in each component (or equivalent). Different requirements apply for second year entry.

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 Essex.

Funding

For up-to-date information on funding opportunities at the University of Essex please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/funding.

Criminology and American Studies (3 years) at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach to understanding crime, criminal justice, and American culture, society, and history. The programme combines theoretical and practical perspectives from criminology, sociology, history, politics, and cultural studies, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of both criminal behaviour and the societal responses to it, alongside an in-depth exploration of American society and its diverse cultural, political, and social dynamics. Throughout the course, students examine topics such as the criminal justice system, policing, sentencing, the causes of crime, and the socio-political contexts of American history and society. The curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and research competencies, preparing graduates for careers in criminal justice, policy analysis, social research, or further academic study. The programme includes modules taught through lectures, seminars, and practical workshops, with assessment methods such as essays, presentations, and examinations. Students benefit from the university's strong industry links, opportunities for internships, and access to extensive academic resources. The programme encourages an understanding of cultural differences and promotes global perspectives, making it suitable for students interested in both domestic and international issues related to crime and society. Typical entry requirements include A-level grades or equivalent qualifications, with a focus on relevant subjects. Graduates of this programme have gone on to work in areas such as law enforcement, social research, policy development, and community work, or to pursue postgraduate studies. The university's supportive learning environment, experienced faculty, and vibrant student community further enhance the educational experience.