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Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Preston

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Preston. Classes run at Cardinal Newman College, full-time over two years. The course is for 16 to 19 year olds.

You'll explore why people commit crime and how society defines criminal behaviour. Units cover criminological theories, crime scene investigation, the courtroom process, and how campaigns shape public awareness of crime. You'll study sociological, psychological and biological explanations for offending, and look at the role of forensic science and the media. Entry requires five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including at least a grade 4 in English Language.

You'll finish with a WJEC Diploma in Criminology.

Who this course is for

Our BTEC Applied Criminology course delves into various crimes within society and scrutinises how certain behaviours are classified as �criminal�. It explores the functions of key personnel once a crime is detected. This course is perfect for those aiming for careers in the Police Force, legal professions, or forensic sciences, as well as individuals with a deep interest in criminal behaviour and societal responses to crime.

Entry requirements

Five Grade 5s at GCSE and at least a 4 in English Language

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how society defines crime and why some crimes go unreported.
  • You'll study sociological, psychological and biological theories of criminal behaviour.
  • You'll examine the investigative process from crime scene to courtroom.
  • You'll evaluate forensic techniques and the role of expert evidence in trials.
  • You'll analyse how the criminal justice system handles punishment and rehabilitation.
  • You'll investigate how media coverage shapes public perception of crime.
  • You'll develop critical thinking, research and analytical skills through case studies.

How you will learn

The course combines controlled assessment and written examinations across four units. Units 1 and 4 are assessed by written exam. Units 2 and 3 are assessed through controlled assessment tasks completed in class. You'll work with real-life case studies and apply theory to practical scenarios throughout.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Cardinal Newman College will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, investigates crime and works within the criminal justice system.
  • Probation officer, supports offenders through rehabilitation and community orders.
  • Legal assistant, supports solicitors and barristers in preparing cases.
  • Forensic science technician, collects and analyses evidence from crime scenes.
  • Youth justice worker, works with young people involved in the justice system.
  • Social worker, supports vulnerable individuals and families in the community.
  • Victim support worker, provides practical and emotional help to those affected by crime.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the natural next step for careers in research, policing, or law.
  • A degree in Law, building on your understanding of the justice system.
  • A degree in Psychology, exploring the behavioural theories you've studied at Level 3.
  • A degree in Social Work, combining criminology knowledge with direct community practice.
Apply on cardinalnewman.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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