Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Manchester – The Manchester College Openshaw Campus

CostFREE
Duration1 year
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Manchester. Classes run at The Manchester College Openshaw Campus, full-time during the day.

The course covers law, psychology, sociology, criminal justice, and crime scene investigation. You'll explore criminological theories and follow the process from crime scene to courtroom. The course takes one year to complete.

You'll finish with a WJEC Diploma in Criminology.

Who this course is for

This two-year course will allow you to develop a deep knowledge and understanding of the range of necessary skills needed for a future in the Criminal Justice or Public Services Sector.

Covering topics from law, psychology and sociology to criminal justice and crime scene investigation, this course serves as great preparation for future work and is a fantastic steppingstone for anyone interested in further study within this field.

You will learn about the process from crime scene to court room and explore criminological theories all while strengthening your leadership skills for the workplace.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore key criminological theories and how they explain crime.
  • You'll study the criminal justice process, from crime scene to courtroom.
  • You'll examine topics in law, psychology, and sociology.
  • You'll learn about crime scene investigation techniques.
  • You'll develop leadership and workplace skills.
  • You'll understand how the public services and criminal justice system operate.

How you will learn

You'll sit four formal examinations during the course. Two are internally moderated and two are externally moderated. You'll also complete graded coursework throughout the year. Classes are delivered in person at Openshaw Campus during the day.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Manchester College Openshaw Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, works within the uniformed public services.
  • Probation officer, supports offenders through the justice system.
  • Crime analyst, examines crime data for police forces.
  • Prison officer, manages and supports people in custody.
  • Victim support worker, helps people affected by crime.
  • Court usher, assists with the day-to-day running of courts.

What you could study next

  • Level 4 or 5 Diploma in Criminology or Public Services, available through UCEN Manchester for deeper specialist study.
  • Degree in Criminology or Criminal Justice, the main route into graduate-level roles in policing, probation, or research.
  • Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship, a work-based route into the police service.