Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Peterborough – Prince William School

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 Peterborough. Classes run at Prince William School, full-time during the day over two years.

The course covers how crime is understood, investigated, and responded to in society. You'll explore criminal behaviour, the justice system, victimology, and social influences on crime. Units combine theory with applied tasks, so you develop research, analytical thinking, and communication skills alongside subject knowledge. 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

Anyone with an interest in the criminal justice system or aiming for a career in areas such as social work, probation, the police, law, psychology and sociology. It's particularly useful if you're planning to study criminology, law, psychology or sociology at university and it will give you an opportunity to apply theoretical learning to real life problems. You'll also 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 criminal behaviour and what drives people to commit crime.
  • You'll study how the criminal justice system works, including policing, courts, and sentencing.
  • You'll examine victimology and the impact of crime on individuals and communities.
  • You'll analyse social, psychological, and cultural factors linked to crime.
  • You'll develop research skills through controlled assessment tasks.
  • You'll practise analytical thinking and written communication at Level 3 standard.
  • You'll apply theoretical knowledge to real-life case studies and scenarios.

How you will learn

The WJEC Diploma in Criminology is assessed through a mix of written examinations and controlled assessment units. Exams test your understanding of criminological theory and the justice system. Controlled assessments are completed in class under supervised conditions and assess your ability to apply knowledge to set briefs. Classes are delivered face-to-face at Prince William School during the day.

What you will need to bring

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

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, works within the criminal justice system to prevent and investigate crime.
  • Probation officer, supports offenders through rehabilitation and community supervision.
  • Social worker, helps individuals and families affected by complex social issues.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people involved in the justice system.
  • Crime analyst, reviews data and patterns to support policing and policy.
  • Victim support worker, provides practical and emotional help to people affected by crime.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the most direct next step for learners aiming for graduate roles in policing, probation, or research.
  • A degree in Law, Psychology, or Sociology, all closely related fields that this qualification supports well.
  • A Level 3 qualification in Social Work or Public Services, for learners who want to move into practice-based roles before committing to a degree.