Level 3 Criminology Course in Birmingham for 16 to 18 Year Olds – Bishop Challoner Catholic College

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration24 months
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? See Criminology Courses in Birmingham.

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Birmingham. Classes run at Bishop Challoner Catholic College, full-time over two years.

The course explores how crime is defined, investigated, and responded to by the justice system. You'll look at theories of criminal behaviour, the role of the police and courts, and how social factors shape crime. Units develop research, analytical thinking, and communication skills that are valued in university study and many careers. You'll need four or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above to enrol.

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, alongside specific college entry requirements.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore key theories of why crime occurs and how society responds.
  • You'll examine how the criminal justice system works, from policing to sentencing.
  • You'll analyse the role of the courts, probation service, and prison system.
  • You'll study how social factors such as poverty, inequality, and media influence crime.
  • You'll develop research skills, including how to gather and evaluate evidence.
  • You'll practise analytical thinking by applying theory to real criminal cases.
  • You'll build communication skills through written arguments and structured discussion.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions at Bishop Challoner Catholic College. The WJEC Diploma in Criminology is assessed through a mix of controlled assessments and written examinations. Controlled assessments require you to apply criminological theory to case studies. Written exams test your understanding of crime, justice, and social context.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Bishop Challoner Catholic College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Probation officer, supports offenders through rehabilitation and community orders.
  • Police officer, investigates crime and maintains public safety.
  • Social worker, helps individuals and families in difficult or at-risk situations.
  • Youth offending worker, works with young people in the criminal justice system.
  • Victim support worker, provides practical and emotional help to crime victims.
  • Crime analyst, researches crime patterns to support police and policy teams.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Criminology, the natural next step for a university career in the subject.
  • BA (Hons) Sociology, broadens your understanding of social structures and inequality.
  • BA (Hons) Law, leads toward a legal career and builds on your justice system knowledge.
  • BA (Hons) Psychology, explores the psychological side of criminal behaviour in depth.

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