Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Lincoln

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

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Lincoln. Classes run at William Farr School, full-time during the day.

The course covers crime, criminal behaviour, and the justice system. You'll explore why people offend, how the media shapes public views on crime, and how cases move from crime scene to courtroom. Units look at criminological theories, criminal justice campaigns, and the process of reaching a verdict. You'll need four or five GCSEs at grade 4 or above to join.

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

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 why some crimes go unreported and how media coverage shapes public perception.
  • You'll study biological, psychological, and sociological theories of criminal behaviour.
  • You'll analyse why people commit crimes, from white-collar offences to serious violent acts.
  • You'll trace how a criminal case progresses from the crime scene to a court verdict.
  • You'll evaluate campaigns designed to raise public awareness of crime.
  • You'll apply criminological theories to real-life situations and recommend policy responses.
  • You'll develop research, analytical thinking, and communication skills.

How you will learn

The course has four units. Two are internally assessed through coursework and applied tasks. Two are externally assessed through written examinations. Units 1 and 2 are covered in the first year, and Units 3 and 4 in the second year. Teaching is classroom-based, with opportunities such as a speaker visit and a court trip.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Probation officer, supports offenders through the justice system.
  • Police officer, investigates crime and maintains public safety.
  • Social worker, helps individuals and families in difficult circumstances.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people involved in the criminal justice system.
  • Victim support worker, provides practical and emotional help to victims of crime.
  • Crime analyst, researches and analyses crime data for police or government agencies.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the natural next step after this Level 3 qualification.
  • A degree in Law, Psychology, or Sociology, all closely related fields this course prepares you for.
  • A degree in Social Work, relevant if you want to work in probation or youth justice.
  • A Level 3 qualification in Psychology or Sociology, if you want to broaden your study before university.

Related courses at William Farr School

More courses near you