Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Chester

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Chester. Classes run at The Bishops' Blue Coat CE High School, full-time during the day.

The course takes one year to complete. You'll explore how crime is defined, investigated, and responded to by the justice system. Topics include criminal behaviour, victimology, social theories of crime, and how courts and policing work. You'll develop research, analytical thinking, and communication skills that carry into university study and many careers. A GCSE grade 4 in English Language is required to join.

You'll finish with a Level 3 Diploma in Criminology, awarded by WJEC.

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

Grade 4 in English Language

What you will learn

  • You'll examine theories that explain why crime occurs and how society responds.
  • You'll analyse how the criminal justice system works, from policing to sentencing.
  • You'll study victimology and the impact of crime on individuals and communities.
  • You'll apply criminological theory to real cases and current events.
  • You'll develop research skills, including how to gather and evaluate evidence.
  • You'll build analytical thinking and structured communication skills.
  • You'll explore career and degree pathways in law, social work, psychology, and sociology.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons, case study analysis, and structured discussions. Assessment is through controlled assessments and written tasks set by WJEC. You'll apply theory to real scenarios throughout the course, building the skills needed for university-level work.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Bishops' Blue Coat CE High School will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, works within the criminal justice system to investigate crime.
  • Probation officer, supports offenders through rehabilitation and supervision.
  • Social worker, helps individuals and families in complex or at-risk situations.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people in contact with the justice system.
  • Community support officer, assists police in local community safety roles.
  • Victim support worker, provides practical and emotional support to victims of crime.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the natural next step after this qualification.
  • A degree in Law, Psychology, or Sociology, all closely related to the skills this course builds.
  • A Level 3 qualification in Social Work or Public Services, for those moving into practice-based roles before university.