Sociology and Criminology

A Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Criminology at the University of Essex offers a comprehensive exploration of society, social behavior, and the forms of crime that impact communities worldwide. This interdisciplinary program is designed to deepen students' understanding of the social structures, cultural dynamics, and institutional frameworks that shape human interaction. Throughout the course, students will examine key topics such as social inequality, social policy, criminal justice systems, deviance, and the causes and consequences of criminal behavior. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical insights, preparing graduates for careers in criminal justice, social research, policy development, and community work. Students will benefit from a diverse curriculum that includes interactive lectures, seminars, and independent research projects, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a nuanced understanding of social issues. The program emphasizes the application of sociological and criminological theories to real-world problems, encouraging students to think about innovative solutions and policy implications. Additionally, students can participate in fieldwork, placements, or collaborative projects, gaining valuable hands-on experience. The University of Essex's vibrant academic community and its strong links with external organizations provide students with networking opportunities and exposure to current debates in sociology and criminology. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to pursue postgraduate study or seek employment in areas such as social research, community development, policing, forensic analysis, and victim support services. The program is designed to develop not only academic skills but also a sense of social responsibility, promoting an understanding of diversity and ethical considerations in addressing social problems. With its flexible structure, the program allows students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career aspirations, making it an ideal choice for those passionate about understanding society and making a positive impact on communities.

Detailed Course Facts

• GBP 9000 Year (EEA)
• GBP 11950 Year (Non-EEA)

• English

Course Content

In all three years you will have 90 credits of compulsory modules and 30 credits of optional modules. For BA Criminology your optional modules can be chosen from across the faculty in first year and from within our Department of Sociology in your second and third year. There is a great deal of choice for these optional modules due to the extensive range of modules offered by our departments. In your final year, as part of your compulsory 90 credits you must take a dissertation, a research project on something which is of interest to you.
With a small number of exceptions, if you successfully complete the first year of your BA, then you are qualified to enter the second year of that course and a range of other courses: for example, if you take economics, politics, philosophy and sociology, then you have a choice of at least nine possible single or joint honours courses at the end of your first year. This means you can change your course, providing you have taken the appropriate pre-requisites and places are available.
We operate a credit framework for our awards, which is based on principles widely used across the UK university sector. Each module has a credit rating attached and our standard three-year course consists of 360 credits (120 credits in your first year, and 240 credits across your second and final years).
Please note that module information on our course finder provides a guide to course content and may be subject to review on an annual basis.

Year 1

Crime, Law and Society;
Sociology and the Modern World;
Researching Social Life 1; and
one social science option

Year 2

Sociology of Crime and Control;
Punishment, Justice and Modernity;
Crime, Media and Culture;
Researching Social Life 2; and
one sociology option

Year 3

Globalisation and Crime;
Current Disputes in Social Justice;
Research Project; and
one sociology option

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
• GCSE English: C
• IB: 32-30 points (we consider IB certificates at the Higher Level on a case-by-case basis).
• BTEC qualifications, in relevant disciplines, will be considered on an individual basis, depending on the units studied. The standard required is generally at Distinction level.
• 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).

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 Essex, please visit: www.essex.ac.uk/studentfinance.

The Sociology and Criminology program at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive understanding of societal structures, social behaviors, and the criminal justice system. The course is designed to provide a strong foundation in sociological theories, research methods, and critical analysis skills, enabling graduates to examine social issues critically and develop practical solutions. Students explore a wide range of topics, including social inequality, crime and deviance, policing, criminal justice policies, and social change. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and qualitative and quantitative research skills, preparing students for careers in academia, public policy, law enforcement, social work, and related fields. The curriculum often incorporates opportunities for placements and practical experience to enhance employability after graduation. The University of Essex’s vibrant research community and state-of-the-art facilities contribute significantly to student learning, fostering an environment of active inquiry and debate. The program typically offers flexibility in choosing modules to tailor the degree to individual interests and career goals. Graduates from the program are well-equipped to understand complex social issues, conduct rigorous research, and influence policy developments. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusiveness creates a stimulating learning environment, with students from various backgrounds engaging in critical discussions about contemporary social challenges. Overall, the Sociology and Criminology course aims to develop socially aware and analytically skilled graduates capable of making meaningful contributions to society.