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Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Durham

CostFREE
Duration1 year
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 Durham. Classes run at New College Durham, full-time during the day.

The course introduces you to criminological theories and how they explain criminal behaviour. You'll learn to analyse criminal situations and consider how policy can respond to crime. Topics include theories of criminality, criminal justice systems, and the social factors behind offending. The course runs over one year.

You'll finish with a WJEC Certificate in Criminology.

Who this course is for

Course may be subject to change.

If you are interested in studying A Levels at New College Durham please just complete one application form and you will be able to choose your subjects once you have had your interview. You do not need to apply for each of the subjects you are interested.

This course will give you an introduction to criminological theories and will enable you to use theories of criminality to analyse criminal situations and make recommendations for policy. How do we explain why people commit crimes? What makes someone a serial killer, or abusive to their own families?

Criminologists have produced theoretical explanations of why people commit crime but which is the most useful? Are these theories relevant to all types of crime?

Knowing about the different criminological approaches to theory will give you a greater insight into the kind of thinking used by experts and politicians to explain crimes and criminality.

Entry requirements

Please refer to College website.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore key criminological theories and what drives criminal behaviour.
  • You'll analyse real criminal situations using theoretical frameworks.
  • You'll examine how the criminal justice system responds to crime.
  • You'll consider the social, psychological, and cultural factors behind offending.
  • You'll evaluate crime prevention strategies and policy recommendations.
  • You'll develop skills in research, critical thinking, and written argument.

How you will learn

You'll study in a classroom setting with tutor-led sessions. Assessment is through a mix of written coursework and controlled assessments set by WJEC. You'll apply criminological theories to case studies and produce analytical written responses. Check the college website for the full breakdown of assessment components.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. New College Durham 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 crime data to inform policing decisions.
  • Social worker, helps individuals and families in difficult circumstances.
  • Prison officer, manages and supports people in custody.

What you could study next

  • A Level Law, deepens your understanding of the legal system and supports university applications.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Public Services, practical preparation for careers in the police, fire, or armed forces.
  • Degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the natural next step for those wanting to specialise further at university.
Apply on newcollegedurham.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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