A Level

Criminology is the study of crime, criminal behaviour, and the criminal justice system. This course combines elements of psychology, sociology, law, and forensic science to help students understand why crimes occur, how society responds to criminal behaviour plus how justice is delivered. It provides an excellent foundation for students interested in careers in law, policing, criminology, psychology, social work, probation services, journalism, and public services. Through the study of real-life cases and contemporary issues, you will gain a deeper understanding of crime and its impact on individuals and society.

Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime: Explore how crime is represented in society and the media, and how public perceptions of crime are formed. Investigate different types of crime, analyse campaigns designed to raise awareness of criminal issues plus examine how society can influence criminal activity. This unit is assessed through coursework.

Unit 2: Criminological Theories Examine why people commit crimes by exploring a range of criminological theories. Investigate biological, psychological and sociological explanations of criminal behaviour and consider how these theories influence crime prevention strategies. You will be encouraged to think critically about the causes of criminal behaviour and how society responds to offenders. This unit is assessed through a written examination.

Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom Follow the journey of a criminal investigation from the discovery of a crime through to the courtroom. Examine the collection and analysis of evidence, the role of forensic science, police procedures and the legal processes involved in bringing a case to trial. This unit is assessed through coursework.

Unit 4: Crime and Punishment Explore the effectiveness of the criminal justice system and different approaches to punishment. Topics include the aims of punishment, sentencing practices, rehabilitation and methods of crime control. This unit is assessed through a written examination.

Grade 4 in GCSE English and Maths