Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Criminology (Placement Year) Lancaster University, UK

Are you interested in developing an understanding of crime, criminology and criminal justice? Ready to look beyond common-sense assumptions in relation to crime and deviance? This thought-provoking degree is taught by the world-leading, research-active academics based in our prestigious Law School. Our Criminology degree tackles the problems of crime, deviance, victimization and social harm in a well-respected programme that is intellectually challenging and exciting.

During the degree you will analyse the social, cultural, political and economic contexts of crime and criminal justice, taking an in-depth look at the social circumstances of offending, policies regulating crime, and the social response to criminal activity. The degree draws on the Law School’s expertise in youth justice, policing, prisons and punishment, sex crimes, hate crime, drugs and substance abuse, organised crime, gender-based violence, desistance and criminalisation, cybercrime and measuring crime.

The Lancaster University Law School is ranked 6th in the UK for research impact in the most recent Research Excellence Framework (2021, published May 2022), with 88% of its impact rated ‘outstanding’.

The first year is flexible, meaning that you can choose from a range of fascinating modules to study alongside your core module, An Introduction to Criminology and Criminal Justice.

During your second year you will explore a broad range of criminological theories and perspectives, consider how to ‘do’ criminological research and choose from a range of optional modules which explore various criminological controversies and issues. If you would like to take a global perspective on Criminology, you can apply to study for a semester at one of our highly regarded partner institutions overseas. In the final year , you will have the choice to study specialist subjects in depth from our range of optional modules.

To prepare students for their work placement year, our Careers and Placements Team will provide advice and guidance on: the skills required to create effective CVs, cover letters and applications; tips and techniques on how to make an impact at interviews and assessment centres; how to create a relevant digital profile; and how to research employers and career sectors of interest. In addition, there is great emphasis placed upon developing self-awareness and on how to present yourself in a professional manner to employers. This optional provision will be delivered via a blend of traditional and digital methods including face-to-face workshops, online webinars, e-courses and 1:1 appointments.