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Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Canterbury

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 Canterbury. Classes run at The Archbishop's School, full-time over two years.

The course explores how and why crime happens, how society responds to it, and how the criminal justice system works. You'll look at theories of crime, the role of the police and courts, and real cases that shaped criminal law. Units also build research, analytical thinking, and communication skills that are useful across many careers.

You'll need four or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above to join. 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.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore key theories that explain why people commit crime.
  • You'll examine how the police, courts, and prison system operate.
  • You'll analyse real criminal cases and apply theory to them.
  • You'll study the impact of crime on victims and communities.
  • You'll develop research skills through evidence-based tasks.
  • You'll build analytical thinking and written communication skills.
  • You'll consider how law, psychology, and sociology connect to criminology.

How you will learn

The WJEC Diploma in Criminology is assessed through a mix of controlled assessment tasks and written examinations. Controlled assessments are completed in class and marked against set criteria. Written exams test your understanding of criminological theory and the criminal justice system. You'll work through the course in classroom sessions, discussing case studies and developing your written arguments over the two years.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Archbishop's School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, investigates crime and works within the criminal justice system.
  • Probation officer, supports offenders through rehabilitation and supervision.
  • Social worker, helps individuals and families in difficult or vulnerable situations.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people who have offended or are at risk.
  • Victim support worker, provides practical and emotional help to crime victims.
  • Community safety officer, works with local agencies to reduce crime and antisocial behaviour.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the natural next step for those aiming for graduate-level roles in policing, social work, or the justice sector.
  • A degree in Law, building on the legal foundations covered in this qualification.
  • A degree in Psychology or Sociology, which shares significant overlap with criminological study.
  • A BTEC Level 3 in Public Services, for those interested in the uniformed services route.
Apply on archbishops-school.co.uk →
Apply now →

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