Free Level 3 Criminology Course in East Grinstead

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

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in East Grinstead. Classes run at Sackville School, full-time over two years.

The course draws on sociology, psychology, and law to explore crime and the criminal justice system. You'll study the causes and consequences of crime, how the media shapes public understanding, and the journey from crime scene to courtroom. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including grade 4 or above in English Language.

You'll finish with a WJEC Diploma in Criminology at Level 3.

Who this course is for

If you are fascinated by crime and punishment, then Criminology is the course for you. It is the academic study of crime, drawing on aspects of sociology, psychology and law. Because this is an applied course, everything you will learn is tailored towards understanding and explaining crime in the real world.

You will explore the causes, consequences and prevention of crime, as well as the role of the media and the processes and people involved, from crime scene to courtroom. Criminology can open doors to a range of exciting degree courses, apprenticeships and future careers.

To succeed on this course, you will need to be an effective independent learner, with excellent research, organisational and IT skills and a great work ethic. You will need to hit the ground running as you will complete your first controlled assessment after your first term in Year 12.

Entry requirements

Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including grade 4+ in English language and (if studied) grade 4+ in sociology

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the causes and consequences of crime in society.
  • You'll examine psychological and sociological explanations for criminal behaviour.
  • You'll study the role of the media in shaping perceptions of crime.
  • You'll analyse the criminal justice process, from crime scene to courtroom.
  • You'll investigate crime prevention strategies and their effectiveness.
  • You'll consider the experiences of victims, offenders, and those working in the justice system.

How you will learn

The WJEC Diploma in Criminology is an applied qualification. You'll learn through classroom-based study, case studies, and analysis of real criminal justice scenarios. Assessment combines written controlled assessments and external examinations. The controlled assessments test your ability to apply criminological knowledge to set tasks, while the exams test broader understanding of the subject.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Sackville 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 supervision.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people in the justice system.
  • Crime analyst, provides data and intelligence to law enforcement agencies.
  • Social worker, supports vulnerable individuals and families.
  • Prison officer, manages and supports people in custody.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the natural next step after this Diploma.
  • A degree in Sociology or Psychology, closely related disciplines that build on the same foundations.
  • A degree in Law, for those interested in the legal side of the justice system.
  • A Level 4 or Level 5 qualification in Policing or Community Justice, for a more vocational route into the sector.