Level 3 Criminology Course in Chatteris for 16 to 18 Year Olds

CostFree for 16 to 18 year olds
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start6 Sep 2027
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body

A sixth-form course for 16 to 18 year olds. Aged 19 or over? Check which courses you can do free.

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Chatteris. Classes run at Cromwell Community College, full-time during the day over two years.

The course explores how and why crime happens, and how society responds to it. You'll study criminal behaviour, the justice system, and social theories of crime. Topics include psychological and sociological perspectives, victims and victimology, and how evidence is used in criminal cases. You'll develop research, analytical, and communication skills that are valued in university study and many careers.

You'll need a grade 5 in English to join. The course leads to 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

You will need a grade 5 in English.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the causes of criminal behaviour from psychological and sociological angles.
  • You'll study how the criminal justice system works, including policing, courts, and sentencing.
  • You'll examine the experiences of victims and how society supports them.
  • You'll analyse real cases and apply theory to understand crime in context.
  • You'll develop research skills, including how to gather and evaluate evidence.
  • You'll build analytical thinking and written communication skills.
  • You'll consider ethical questions around justice, punishment, and rehabilitation.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions, discussions, and case study work. Assessment is through written controlled assessments and extended writing tasks set by WJEC. There are no traditional exams. You'll complete units across the two years, building your understanding progressively.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cromwell Community College 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 individuals and families.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people in the justice system.
  • Victim support worker, helps people affected by crime.
  • Community support officer, assists police in local areas.
  • Prison officer, manages and supports people in custody.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Criminology, the natural next step for university study in this subject.
  • BA (Hons) Law, for those interested in the legal side of criminal justice.
  • BA (Hons) Psychology, building on the behavioural theories covered in this Diploma.
  • BA (Hons) Sociology, exploring the wider social forces behind crime and inequality.
  • BA (Hons) Social Work, for those aiming toward a career in social care or probation.

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