Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Sheerness

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 Sheerness. Classes run at Leigh Academy Minster, full-time over two years.

Criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminal behaviour. The course draws on sociology, psychiatry, social anthropology, and criminal law. You'll explore different types of crime, why some crimes go unreported, and how society responds through punishment and prevention. Entry requires at least GCSE grade 5 in English and maths.

You'll finish with a WJEC Diploma in Criminology.

Who this course is for

Criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminal behaviour. With this subject, you can take an in-depth look at modern crime, punishment and prevention. The study of Criminology draws on sociology, psychiatry, social anthropology and criminal law.

The first mandatory unit will enable the learner to demonstrate understanding of different types of crime, influences on perceptions of crime and why some crimes are unreported. The second mandatory unit will allow learners to gain an understanding of why people commit crime, drawing on what they have learned in Unit 1. The third mandatory unit will provide an understanding of the criminal justice system from the moment a crime has been identified to the verdict. Learners will develop the understanding and skills needed to examine information in order to review the justice of verdicts in criminal cases.

In the final mandatory unit, learners will apply their understanding of the awareness of criminality, criminological theories and the process of bringing an accused to court in order to evaluate the effectiveness of social control to deliver criminal justice policy. Each unit within the qualification has an applied purpose which acts as a focus for the learning in the unit. The applied purpose demands learning related to authentic case studies. It also requires learners to consider how the use and application of their learning impacts on themselves, other individuals, employers, society and the environment.

Entry requirements

All programmes have an entry threshold of at least a GCSE grade 5 or an equivalent qualification. All students are expected to have achieved a Good or Strong Pass in English and mathematics.

What you will learn

  • You'll examine different types of crime and how they are classified.
  • You'll explore why some crimes are unreported and how perceptions of crime are shaped.
  • You'll study theories of criminal behaviour, drawing on sociology and psychiatry.
  • You'll analyse approaches to crime prevention and punishment.
  • You'll consider the role of criminal law and the justice system.
  • You'll apply social anthropology to understand crime in different communities.

How you will learn

You'll study in the classroom at Leigh Academy Minster. The WJEC Diploma in Criminology is assessed through a mix of controlled assessments and written examinations. Units are completed over the two years of the course, with assessments taken at set points.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Leigh Academy Minster 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, reviews data to help police services identify patterns.
  • Social worker, supports vulnerable individuals and families.
  • Prison officer, manages and rehabilitates people in custody.

What you could study next

  • A Level Sociology or Psychology, deepens understanding of human behaviour and social systems.
  • BA (Hons) Criminology, a university degree for those wanting to work in criminal justice or research.
  • BA (Hons) Law, a route into legal careers including criminal law.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Public Services, for those interested in the police, prison, or probation services.

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