Criminology

Criminology is the scientific study of crime: its causes, its patterns, how it is defined and measured, how it affects individuals and communities, and how criminal justice systems respond. It is genuinely multidisciplinary, drawing on sociology, law, social and public policy, history, psychology, and philosophy to build an understanding that goes beyond simple explanations and engages seriously with the social, political, and institutional forces that shape what we call crime and how we deal with it.

At the University of Bristol, this three-year, full-time programme includes a foundation year and brings the intellectual depth and research culture of one of the UK's leading universities to the study of criminology. You will engage with the major theoretical traditions in the discipline, explore the empirical evidence on criminal behaviour and criminal justice, and develop the analytical and research skills to evaluate competing explanations and draw evidence-based conclusions. Bristol's strong social science and law faculty provides a rich interdisciplinary environment in which to study a subject that requires engagement with multiple disciplines.

Graduates go on to careers in the criminal justice system, social work, policy research, the charity sector, journalism, law, and the civil service. The analytical rigour and research skills that a criminology degree from a research-intensive university develops are valued across many professional fields. Many graduates also continue to postgraduate study in criminology, law, social policy, or forensic psychology, building specialist expertise and research capability that the discipline needs if it is to contribute meaningfully to better criminal justice policy and practice.