Criminology and Social Policy

Criminology and Social Policy at the University of Kent offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding crime, justice, and social issues in contemporary society. This programme provides students with a solid foundation in criminological theories, criminal justice policies, and social policy analysis, equipping them with the analytical skills necessary to critically examine the causes and consequences of crime, as well as the effectiveness of various social interventions. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics, including the criminal justice system, policing, sentencing, imprisonment, community safety, human rights, social inequality, and public policy development. The programme combines theoretical perspectives with practical insights, encouraging students to engage in research projects, case studies, and policy evaluations. Students also benefit from the university's strong links with criminal justice agencies and social organizations, providing opportunities for placements and real-world experiences. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication skills, preparing graduates for careers in law enforcement, social work, policy analysis, advocacy, and related fields. In addition, the course offers excellent research facilities and access to experienced academics who are actively involved in criminological and social policy research. Graduates of this programme will have the knowledge and skills to contribute meaningfully to debates and initiatives aimed at improving justice and social well-being, making a positive impact in various professional contexts. Whether pursuing further academic study or entering the workforce, students will be well-equipped with the intellectual tools to understand and address complex social challenges in today’s dynamic world.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 12450 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

The course structure below gives a flavour of the modules that will be available to you and provides details of the content of this programme. This listing is based on the current curriculum and may change year to year in response to new curriculum developments and innovation. Most programmes will require you to study a combination of compulsory and optional modules, you may also have the option to take ‘wild’ modules from other programmes offered by the University in order that you may customise your programme and explore other subject areas of interest to you or that may further enhance your employability.

Stage 1

Possible modules may include:

SO305 - Introduction to Criminology

SO333 - Crime, Culture and Control

SO337 - Fundamentals of Sociology

SO408 - Sociological Theory: The Classics

SA300 - Social Problems and Social Policy I: Youth,The family and the State

SA301 - Social Problems and Social Policy II: The Market, The Family and the St

Stage 2

Possible modules may include:

SO536 - Criminal Justice in Modern Britain:Development, Issues and Politics

SO505 - Sociology of Crime and Deviance

SO601 - Welfare in Modern Britain

SO602 - Social Research Methods

Stage 3

Possible modules may include:

SO605 - Crime , Media and Culture

SO533 - Gender, Crime and Criminal Justice

SO534 - Violence and Society

SO535 - Youth and Crime

SO594 - Terrorism and Modern Society

SO670 - Kent Student Certificate for Volunteering, Platinum Award

SO679 - Research Dissertation

SO689 - Drugs, Culture and Control

SO710 - War, Atrocity and Genocide

SO711 - The Sociology of Imprisonment

SP637 - Forensic Psychology: Theoretical and Applied Perspectives

LW542 - Policing

SO712 - Urban Sociology

SO702 - Sociology and Social Politics of the Family

SO678 - Caring for Vulnerable Adults: Understanding Social Care

SO595 - Reproductive Health Policy in Britain

SO645 - The Third Sector: Charities and Social Enterprises in Modern Societies

SO668 - The Sociology of Work

SO603 - Health and Health Policy

SO509 - Health, Illness and Medicine

SO525 - Environmental Politics

SO532 - Mental Health

SO538 - Childhood, Society and Children's Rights

SO539 - Environmental Policy and Practice

SO575 - Poverty, Inequality and Social Security

SA503 - A Future for the Welfare State? Social Change, Challenge and Crisis

SA519 - The Social Politics of Food

SA525 - Education,Training and Social Policy

SA531 - The Care and Protection of Children and Families

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

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

Requirements

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.

Qualification /Typical offer/minimum requirement

• A level

ABB

• 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)

The university will consider applicants holding BTEC National Diploma and Extended National Diploma Qualifications (QCF; NQF;OCR) on a case by case basis please contact us via the enquiries tab for further advice on your individual circumstances.

• International Baccalaureate

34 points overall or 16 at HL

International students

The University receives applications from over 140 different nationalities and consequently will consider applications from prospective students offering a wide range of international qualifications. Our International Development Office will be happy to advise prospective students on entry requirements.

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.

Funding

Kent offers generous financial support schemes to support eligible undergraduate students during their studies. Our 2013 financial support package includes a fee waiver and cash bursary, as well as additional funds on your Kent account to help with accommodation, food, books and other living costs. Find out more on our fees and funding page.

General scholarships

Scholarships are available for excellence in academic performance, sport and music and are awarded on merit. For further information on the range of awards available and to make an application see our scholarships website.

The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence

At Kent we recognise, encourage and reward excellence. We have created a new scholarship, The Kent Scholarship for Academic Excellence, which will be awarded to any applicant who achieves a minimum of AAA over three A levels, or the equivalent qualifications as specified on our funding pages.

The Criminology and Social Policy program at the University of Kent offers students a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, social influences on crime, and the development of effective policies to address crime and social issues. Designed to combine theoretical foundations with practical applications, this degree provides a multidisciplinary approach, integrating perspectives from sociology, psychology, law, and public policy. Students will explore topics such as crime causation, criminal behavior, policing, justice processes, and the social determinants of crime. The program emphasizes critical analysis, research skills, and empirical methods, enabling graduates to engage with real-world challenges in criminal justice and social policy contexts. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to develop an awareness of contemporary issues like policing practices, restorative justice, human rights, and the impact of social inequalities on crime rates. The curriculum is structured to include lectures, seminars, and research projects, often involving case studies and fieldwork. In addition to academic learning, students gain skills in report writing, data analysis, and policy evaluation, preparing them for careers within governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, and international bodies. The program also offers opportunities for placements and internships, allowing students to apply their knowledge in practical settings and establish professional networks. Students may have options to specialize or pursue interdisciplinary interests, enriching their academic experience. At graduation, students are equipped to analyze and respond to evolving social challenges through informed policy-making and innovative approaches. The University of Kent's strong links with the criminal justice sector and social policy organizations further enhance the employability and practical abilities of its graduates.