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Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Kettering – The Latimer Arts College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start2 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Kettering. Classes run at The Latimer Arts College, full-time over two years.

The course explores how and why crime happens, how the criminal justice system responds, and what research tells us about offending and punishment. You'll develop analytical thinking, communication, and research skills that carry weight in university applications and many careers. Units cover topics such as crime and deviance, criminal investigations, and the psychology behind criminal behaviour.

You'll need four or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above to join. You'll finish with a WJEC Diploma in Criminology.

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

4-5 GCSE's at grade 4 (C) or above.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore theories of crime and why people offend.
  • You'll study how the criminal justice system works, from policing to sentencing.
  • You'll examine criminal investigations and forensic processes.
  • You'll analyse the psychology and sociology behind criminal behaviour.
  • You'll develop research skills, including how to gather and evaluate evidence.
  • You'll practise applying theory to real cases and social problems.
  • You'll build communication and analytical thinking skills for university and work.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom sessions, case studies, and guided research. Assessment is through written controlled assessments and coursework tasks completed during the course. There is no written exam at the end. Work is marked and moderated by WJEC.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Latimer Arts College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, works in community policing or criminal investigation.
  • Probation officer, supports offenders through rehabilitation programmes.
  • Social worker, helps individuals and families in difficult circumstances.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people in the justice system.
  • Crime analyst, reviews data to support policing decisions.
  • Victim support worker, provides practical and emotional help to victims of crime.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the natural next step after this Diploma.
  • A degree in Law, which this qualification supports as a foundation.
  • A degree in Psychology or Sociology, both closely linked to the themes covered.
  • A degree in Social Work, for those aiming at a career in social care or probation.
Apply on latimer.org.uk →
Apply now →

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