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Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Kettering – Kettering Buccleuch Academy

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 Kettering. Classes run at Kettering Buccleuch Academy, full-time during the day.

The course takes two years and explores how crime is defined, investigated, and responded to. You'll look at criminal behaviour, the justice system, and the social factors behind crime. Topics build research, analytical thinking, and communication skills that are useful across 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 or above including Maths and English

What you will learn

  • You'll explore theories of criminal behaviour and what drives people to commit crime.
  • You'll examine how the criminal justice system works, from policing to sentencing.
  • You'll analyse real crime cases and apply theory to real situations.
  • You'll develop research skills, including gathering and evaluating evidence.
  • You'll practise analytical thinking and structured written argument.
  • You'll study the social, psychological, and political factors linked to crime.
  • You'll build communication skills suited to university study and professional work.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom lessons, discussion, and case study analysis. Assessment is a mix of controlled assessments and written tasks completed during the course. There are no traditional exams for all units. Work is marked against set criteria, and you'll build a portfolio of assessed pieces over the two years.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. Kettering Buccleuch 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.
  • Social worker, supports vulnerable people and families.
  • Youth justice worker, helps young people involved in the justice system.
  • Community support worker, assists people affected by crime or disadvantage.
  • Court clerk, supports the administration of legal proceedings.
  • Victim support advisor, helps people cope after experiencing crime.

What you could study next

  • BA (Hons) Criminology, the natural next step at university, building directly on this Diploma.
  • BA (Hons) Law, for those interested in the legal side of the justice system.
  • BA (Hons) Psychology, exploring the behavioural science behind crime in more depth.
  • BA (Hons) Sociology, broadening the social theory covered in this criminology qualification.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Policing, a vocational route into the police service.
Apply on kba.uk →
Apply now →

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