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Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Doncaster

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start4 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Doncaster. Classes run at Ridgewood School, full-time during the day over two years.

The course covers Criminal Psychology and Behaviour, Sociology, and Criminal Justice. Assessment is split evenly between coursework and exams. You'll need at least grade 4 in GCSE English Language and Maths, plus three other GCSEs at grade 4 or above.

The WJEC Diploma in Criminology carries up to 56 UCAS points and is accepted by most universities, including Russell Group institutions, as an entry qualification.

Who this course is for

  • Level 3 Diploma is approved as an equivalent to one A level and carries UCAS points up to 56 for an A*
  • It is accepted by most universities (including Russell Group) as an accredited qualification for entry
  • If exams are not your main strength, this could be the right course for you as it involves 50% coursework and 50% exams
  • You will study Criminal Psychology and Behaviour as well as Sociology and Criminal Justice, and delve into some of the world’s most serious issues in an increasingly globalized society
  • With the evolution of the internet and an ever-increasing population, job prospects in criminology are outstanding and this trend is expected to grow
  • At Ridgewood, your Criminology teachers are enthusiastic about their subject, viewing it as a hobby as well as a vocation
  • You will be required to spend a minimum of six hours per week studying outside of lessons to be successful in completing the Criminology course.
  • The focus on current crime and criminal law means that this qualification requires you to be interested in keeping up with the news as well as changes happening currently relating to the Criminal Justice System. This will be your responsibility so please ensure you are sufficiently motivated towards this before choosing this course.
  • This course works well with other qualifications including Psychology, Sociology, Law, Politics and English.

Entry requirements

Minimum grade 4 in English Language and Maths plus three other GCSEs at least grade 4.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the psychology behind criminal behaviour and what drives people to offend.
  • You'll study how the criminal justice system works, from policing to sentencing.
  • You'll examine sociological theories that explain crime and deviance in society.
  • You'll analyse some of the world's most serious crimes and the issues surrounding them.
  • You'll develop research and analytical skills through coursework projects.
  • You'll build skills in written argument and evidence-based reasoning.

How you will learn

The course is assessed through a combination of coursework and written exams, each making up 50% of your final grade. Classroom sessions cover theory, case studies, and discussion. Coursework is completed throughout the two years, giving you time to develop and refine your work before submission.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, investigates crime and works with communities to maintain safety.
  • Probation officer, supports offenders through rehabilitation and reintegration.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people involved in the criminal justice system.
  • Crime analyst, examines data and patterns to support police investigations.
  • Social worker, supports vulnerable individuals and families in difficult circumstances.
  • Victim support worker, provides practical and emotional help to people affected by crime.

What you could study next

  • A Level Sociology or Psychology, deepens your understanding of the social and psychological themes covered in this criminology qualification.
  • BA (Hons) Criminology or Criminal Justice, the natural next step at university, where this Diploma's UCAS points count toward entry.
  • BA (Hons) Law, for those interested in the legal side of criminal justice.
  • BA (Hons) Social Work, building on the sociological grounding from this course.
Apply on ridgewoodschool.co.uk →
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