Criminology and Sociology

Criminology and sociology, studied together, provide a powerful set of tools for understanding social life and the harms that occur within it. Sociology examines how societies are structured, how inequalities are produced and reproduced, how institutions shape behaviour, and how individuals relate to the collectives they inhabit. Criminology focuses that analytical lens on crime, deviance, law and order, asking not just what crime is, but why it is defined the way it is, who is most likely to be criminalised, and whether the systems we use to respond to crime actually achieve their stated aims.

At the University of Gloucestershire, this three-year full-time programme combines rigorous academic study with a practical focus and direct engagement with organisations working in criminal justice and community settings. You will explore the causes and consequences of crime and social disorder, and how communities respond to the challenges of a changing social world. There are opportunities to gain experience working with public and voluntary sector organisations, and the programme includes field study opportunities in UK settings and international locations, giving you a genuine sense of how these issues play out in different contexts.

The combination of criminological and sociological thinking develops your ability to analyse evidence, construct arguments and communicate your ideas clearly.

Graduates from criminology and sociology programmes work across the criminal justice system, social services, community development, local government, policy, research and the voluntary sector. Many pursue careers in probation, youth justice, social work, community policing, victim support and advocacy organisations. The analytical and research skills of the degree are also valued in journalism, communications, public affairs and education.

Many graduates go on to postgraduate study in criminology, social work, public policy or sociology, which provides more specialist preparation for research, management and leadership roles.