Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Gillingham

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start3 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Gillingham. Classes run at Gillingham School, full-time over two years.

The course explores the criminal justice system, crime theory, and how society responds to offending. You'll develop research, analytical thinking, and communication skills. Units apply theory to real cases, building the kind of critical thinking valued in university study and professional roles.

You'll need four or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English, Maths, and Psychology or a Humanities subject. You'll finish with a WJEC Diploma in Criminology at Level 3.

Who this course is for

This course is suitable for anyone with an interest in the criminal justice system, those aiming for a career in areas such as social work, probation, the police, or if you're planning to study criminology, law, psychology or sociology at university. It will give you an opportunity to apply theoretical learning to real life problems and develop a set of transferable skills including research, analytical thinking and communication that are essential for university study and most careers. The course is generally taken alongside courses such as A levels or Level 3 work related subjects.

Entry requirements

4-5 GCSE's at grade 4 (C) or above- English, Maths and Psychology ( or a Humanities Grade 4).

What you will learn

  • You'll examine theories of crime and why people offend.
  • You'll analyse how the criminal justice system operates, from policing to sentencing.
  • You'll evaluate real criminal cases and apply theory to them.
  • You'll develop research skills used in academic and professional settings.
  • You'll practise analytical thinking and structured written argument.
  • You'll explore social factors linked to crime, such as inequality and marginalisation.
  • You'll build communication skills suited to university study and careers in law, social work, or public services.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at Gillingham School. Assessment is a mix of written coursework and externally marked units. You'll apply criminological theory to case studies and produce analytical written responses. Some units are assessed through controlled assessment tasks completed in class.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Gillingham School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, investigates crime and supports communities.
  • Probation officer, works with offenders to reduce reoffending.
  • Social worker, supports vulnerable people through the justice system.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people in the criminal justice system.
  • Community support officer, assists police in local areas.
  • Victim support worker, helps people affected by crime.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Criminology, a university degree that builds directly on this qualification and opens graduate-level roles.
  • BA (Hons) Law, for those interested in the legal side of criminal justice.
  • BA (Hons) Psychology, which pairs well with criminology for careers in forensic or clinical settings.
  • BA (Hons) Sociology, exploring the social structures that shape crime and inequality.