Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Merton

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 Merton. Classes run at Raynes Park High School, full-time over two years.

The course explores crime, justice, and the systems that respond to them. You'll study topics including criminal behaviour, victimology, and the role of the police and courts. It builds research, analytical thinking, and communication skills that are valued in university study and many careers.

You'll need five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including Maths and English, 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

5 GCSE's at grade 4 (C) or above, including Maths and English.

What you will learn

  • You'll examine theories of criminal behaviour and why crime occurs.
  • You'll study the criminal justice system, including policing, courts, and sentencing.
  • You'll explore victimology and the impact of crime on individuals and communities.
  • You'll analyse real cases and apply theory to real-world scenarios.
  • You'll develop research skills, including how to gather and evaluate evidence.
  • You'll practise analytical writing and structured argument.
  • You'll consider the role of social factors such as poverty, inequality, and mental health in crime.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom lessons, discussion, and case study analysis. Assessment is through written controlled assessments completed in class across the two years. There is no final exam. Each unit is assessed separately, and your work is marked against set criteria by WJEC.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, investigates crime and supports communities.
  • Probation officer, supervises offenders in the community.
  • Social worker, supports vulnerable individuals and families.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people in the justice system.
  • Victim support worker, helps people affected by crime.
  • Community support officer, assists police in local areas.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Criminology, the natural next step for university study in this subject.
  • BA (Hons) Law, suits those interested in the legal side of justice.
  • BA (Hons) Psychology, builds on the behavioural theories covered in this criminology qualification.
  • BA (Hons) Sociology, explores the social structures that shape crime and inequality.
  • BA (Hons) Social Work, leads toward a career working with vulnerable people.

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