Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Ipswich

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Ipswich. Classes run full-time during the day at Kesgrave High School. This one-year criminology course draws on sociology, psychology, and biology to explore why people commit crime, how criminological theory shapes policy, and how crime-related campaigns are developed. You'll need six GCSE or BTEC passes at Level 4 or above to enrol, with a Level 5 or above in a related subject desirable. The course carries a level 3 criminology qualification similar in weight to an AS level.

Who this course is for

Criminology is the study of crime, criminals and the law. This course will draw on elements of Sociology, Psychology and Biology. At the end of the one-year course, you will come out with a level 3 qualification - similar to an AS. It will also allow you to gain an understanding of why people commit crime, how criminological theory is used to support policy development and how campaigns related to crime are created.

Entry requirements

6 GCSE/BTEC passes at Level 4 or above. It is desirable to achieve a Level 5 or above in this subject at GCSE (or a related subject).

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the causes of criminal behaviour through sociological, psychological, and biological theory.
  • You'll examine how criminological theory is used to develop crime policy.
  • You'll analyse how campaigns related to crime are designed and communicated.
  • You'll study the criminal justice system and how it responds to offending.
  • You'll develop skills in evaluating evidence and constructing arguments about crime and society.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom through a mix of lessons, discussion, and written work. The WJEC Certificate in Criminology is assessed through a combination of controlled assessment tasks and written examinations. Controlled assessments are completed in class under supervised conditions. Written exams test your knowledge and analysis of criminological theory and its application.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer. Entry-level role in UK policing.
  • Crime analyst. Researching and mapping crime data for police forces.
  • Probation services officer. Supporting offenders through the justice system.
  • Youth offending team worker. Working with young people in the criminal justice system.
  • Social worker. Supporting vulnerable people and families.
  • Victim support worker. Helping people affected by crime.

What you could study next

  • A Level Sociology or Psychology. Deepen the theoretical grounding you've built on this course.
  • Level 3 Extended Diploma in Public Services. Broadens into policing, the armed forces, and emergency services.
  • Criminology degree (BA or BSc). The natural next step if you want to specialise further or move into research, policy, or graduate-entry roles in the justice sector.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma (Social Sciences). An alternative route into university for those who want to study criminology or a related subject at degree level.

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