Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Ashton-under-Lyne – Ashton Sixth Form College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Ashton-under-Lyne. Classes run at Ashton Sixth Form College, full-time over two years.

The course draws on psychology, law, and sociology. You'll study theories of criminal behaviour, the criminal justice system, and how society punishes and rehabilitates offenders. Real cases and current news stories run through the teaching. Units cover genetic, sociological, and psychological theories of crime, as well as changes in law and punishment.

You'll finish with a WJEC Diploma in Criminology at Level 3.

Who this course is for

BTEC Criminology is for students who are interested in understanding crime, criminal behavior, and the justice system. It suits those who enjoy analyzing the causes of crime, the role of law enforcement, and how society responds to criminal activity. The course is ideal for individuals considering careers in policing, forensic psychology, criminal law, social work, or the prison and probation services. It also benefits those who want to develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills that are valuable in various legal and social fields. BTEC Criminology provides a strong foundation for further study or employment in criminology, law, and criminal justice.

Entry requirements

View our entry requirements https://www.asfc.ac.uk/home/study-with-us/entry-requirements/

What you will learn

  • You'll explore theories of offending behaviour, including genetic, sociological, and psychological approaches.
  • You'll analyse how the criminal justice system responds to crime.
  • You'll study how law and punishment have changed over time.
  • You'll examine real criminal cases and apply criminological theory to them.
  • You'll evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the justice system.
  • You'll develop research, critical thinking, and communication skills.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions, guided booklets, and independent research. Assessment combines written exams and controlled assessments. You'll also analyse current events from the news and apply criminological theories to explain behaviour.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Ashton Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, investigates crime and works with communities.
  • Probation officer, supports offenders through rehabilitation.
  • Social worker, helps vulnerable people navigate difficult situations.
  • Prison officer, manages and supports people in custody.
  • Legal assistant, supports solicitors and barristers in legal work.
  • Civil service administrator, works across government departments.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the natural next step for those wanting to specialise further.
  • A degree in Law, for those interested in legal practice or advocacy.
  • A degree in Psychology, building on the behavioural theories covered in this qualification.
  • A degree in Social Work, combining criminological knowledge with practical support skills.

Related courses at Ashton Sixth Form College

More courses near you