Post A Job
Advertise Courses
Search Jobs
Search Courses

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Birmingham – Swanshurst School

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

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

The course explores why crimes happen and who commits them. You'll look at the criminal justice process, from arrest through to court and sentencing. Topics include types of crime, offender behaviour, and the role of social factors in criminality. The course is an Applied General Qualification, designed to support progression to university.

You'll need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language. You'll finish with a WJEC Diploma in Criminology.

Who this course is for

This is an Applied General Qualification which means it is designed primarily to support you progressing to university. An understanding of criminology is relevant to many job roles within the criminal justice sector, social and probation work and sociology and psychology. You will learn about the different types of crime and the people committing these crimes - why? What happens to criminals from the time they are caught to when they go to court and then prison?

Entry requirements

At least 5 GCSEs, or equivalent at grade 4 or above. English Language 4

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the different types of crime and what drives criminal behaviour.
  • You'll study the criminal justice process, from arrest and investigation to trial and sentencing.
  • You'll examine the role of prisons and what happens to offenders after conviction.
  • You'll analyse social, psychological, and environmental factors linked to crime.
  • You'll consider the work of agencies in the criminal justice system, including police, courts, and probation services.
  • You'll develop skills in evaluating evidence and constructing arguments.

How you will learn

The course is classroom based, with full-time daytime attendance at Swanshurst School. You'll be assessed through a mix of controlled assessments and written examinations. The WJEC Diploma in Criminology uses a unit-based structure, with some units assessed internally and others by external exam.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, investigates crime and works with the public.
  • Probation officer, supports offenders through rehabilitation and resettlement.
  • Social worker, helps individuals and families in difficult circumstances.
  • Prison officer, manages and supports people in custody.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people in the criminal justice system.
  • Victim support worker, provides practical and emotional help to victims of crime.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the most direct next step from this qualification.
  • A degree in Psychology, relevant if you want to focus on offender behaviour and mental health.
  • A degree in Social Work, combining criminology knowledge with professional practice.
  • A degree in Law, building on your understanding of the justice system.
Apply on swanshurst.org →
Apply now →

Related courses at Swanshurst School

More courses near you