Post A Job
Advertise Courses
Search Jobs
Search Courses

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Bolton – The Sixth Form Bolton

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyWJEC awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Criminology Course in Bolton. Classes run at The Sixth Form Bolton, full-time over two years.

The course looks at crime from the perspectives of both criminals and victims. You'll study why people commit crime, how the criminal justice system works, and how public awareness of crime shapes policy. Units cover changing awareness of crime, criminological theories, and the journey from crime scene to courtroom. The course runs alongside A Level subjects and suits learners with a strong background in vocational study. Entry requires a solid set of GCSEs including English Language and Maths.

You'll finish with a WJEC Diploma in Criminology at Level 3.

Who this course is for

Criminology is a modern and innovative course which looks at crime from the perspective of both criminals and victims. The subject teaches a critical analysis of the criminal justice system, whilst also examining the motives of criminals. This course is especially appealing to those who wish to pursue a career in forensics or criminal psychology.

Entry requirements

Students studying three A Levels will be expected to have a minimum of two GCSEs at grade 6 and three GCSEs at grade 5/4, including English Language and Mathematics at grade 5/4 or above. Or eight GCSEs at a minimum of grade 5. This course may be taken alongside A Level courses and may be more suited to learners with a strong profile of prior attainment in vocational studies.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore how crime is recorded and whether official figures give an accurate picture.
  • You'll study campaigns that have changed the law and design your own campaign for change.
  • You'll apply criminological theories to explain why people commit crime.
  • You'll analyse real-life cases, including questions around what drives serious offenders.
  • You'll examine how evidence moves from a crime scene through to a courtroom.
  • You'll critically assess the criminal justice system and how it responds to offenders and victims.
  • You'll consider the perspectives of both criminals and victims when analysing crime.

How you will learn

You'll learn through classroom-based lessons at The Sixth Form Bolton. The WJEC Diploma in Criminology is assessed through a mix of controlled assessments and written examinations. Some units involve planning and producing your own work, such as designing a campaign, which is assessed as coursework. Examinations test your understanding of criminological theories and the criminal justice system.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. The Sixth Form Bolton will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Police officer, investigates crime and works with communities to prevent it.
  • Probation officer, supports offenders through rehabilitation and monitors compliance.
  • Prison officer, manages and supports people in custody.
  • Victim support worker, helps people affected by crime access services and recover.
  • Social worker, works with vulnerable individuals and families in complex situations.
  • Crime analyst, reviews data to help police forces identify patterns and trends.

What you could study next

  • A Level Law, deepens your understanding of the legal system and opens routes into law degrees.
  • BA (Hons) Criminology, a university degree that builds directly on this qualification.
  • BA (Hons) Psychology, suits those drawn to the criminal psychology side of the course.
  • BA (Hons) Forensic Science, a strong next step if forensics is your focus.
Apply on bolton-sfc.ac.uk →
Apply now →

Related courses at The Sixth Form Bolton

More courses near you