Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Norwich

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 Norwich. Classes run at Ormiston Victory Academy, full-time over two years.

The course blends criminology, psychology, and law. You'll explore how crimes are committed, how the justice system responds, and what shapes criminal behaviour. It's designed as an Applied General qualification, so learning is rooted in real contexts linked to the criminal justice system. The course is well suited to those planning to go on to university.

You'll need five or more GCSEs at Grade 5 or above, including English and maths, though the centre applies some flexibility. You finish with a WJEC Diploma in Criminology at Level 3.

Who this course is for

The WJEC Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology is a qualification with elements of psychology, law and criminology that complements studies in Humanities. This is an Applied General qualification. This means it is designed primarily to support students who are progressing to university. It has been designed to offer exciting and interesting experiences that focus through applied learning, i.e. through the acquisition of knowledge and understanding in purposeful contexts linked to the criminal justice system. Each unit within the qualification has an applied purpose which acts as a focus for the learning in the unit. Learning relates to authentic case studies and requires students to consider how the use and application of their learning impacts on themselves, other individuals, employers, society and the environment.

Entry requirements

In order to follow a vocational or mixed Level 3 programme of study you should have achieved five or more GCSE (or equivalent) Grade 5's or above, including English Language or Literature and mathematics although we will apply some flexibility where you can demonstrate aptitude and enthusiasm for this subject, yet you may not fully match our entry requirements . Those students without a 4 in English or mathematics, will take a level 2 qualification in these as part of their studies.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore the causes of criminal behaviour and the theories behind them.
  • You'll study how the criminal justice system works, from policing to sentencing.
  • You'll examine psychological concepts and how they apply to crime.
  • You'll analyse legal frameworks and how laws are made and enforced.
  • You'll develop skills in evaluating evidence and constructing arguments.
  • You'll apply your learning to real case studies and scenarios from the justice system.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based sessions combining taught lessons, discussion, and applied tasks. Assessment is through a mix of controlled assessments and written examinations. The applied approach means you'll connect theory to real contexts throughout the course.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Ormiston Victory Academy will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, investigates crime and supports communities.
  • Probation officer, works with offenders to reduce reoffending.
  • Youth justice worker, supports young people in the justice system.
  • Crime analyst, examines data to identify patterns in criminal activity.
  • Social worker, helps individuals and families in difficult circumstances.
  • Court clerk, supports the administration of legal proceedings.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the natural next step after this qualification.
  • A degree in Psychology, building on the psychological elements of the course.
  • A degree in Law, for those drawn to the legal side of the curriculum.
  • A degree in Social Work, combining well with the justice and behaviour themes covered.