(UCAS Course Code L010/Institution Code W73)
If you are only applying for one course which is at Wirral Met, you can apply online. If you are applying for more than one course outside of Wirral Met, you must apply via UCAS.
What makes society unequal? How do social characteristics such as class, race and gender affect our everyday life? Why do people commit crime? And why are certain people more likely to go through the criminal justice system?
BA (Hons) Sociology with Criminology, validated by the University of Chester, will offer you the opportunity to study a range of sociological and criminological topics. The course, which takes place over three years (full time), will develop your knowledge and understanding within the field of sociology and criminology. The degree is designed to explore a diverse range of topics within sociology and criminology that will interest all students who wish to explore the complexities of social life. Students will achieve factual and evidence-based knowledge, be introduced to legislative frameworks and develop research and theoretical perspectives that are relevant to the study of society and crime.
Students will develop essential academic skills such as critical analysis, research skills and transferable employability skills that are desired by employers. In addition to this students on the BA Sociology with Criminology will have access to University of Chester resources and facilities such as the extensive library and online catalogues.
This BA Sociology with Criminology degree is taught at our Hamilton campus in Birkenhead.
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Course Details
The BA Sociology with Criminology degree is a three-year, full-time course based at Wirral Met College and awarded by the University of Chester. No prior knowledge is required of the subjects but applicants should have a strong interest in matters relating to society and crime as well as a strong work ethic to meet the demands of the course.
The degree programme places a strong emphasis on independent study skills and so students will receive support with developing their academic skills in the first year in order to complete assessed work and to do so independently. The team will provide study skills sessions for all students in order to give you the core skills needed to do the course.
Students will also have a personal tutor at each year of study to support them and offer information on support services at the college.
Modules* that will be studied at each year of study are listed below.
Year 1: 120 credits at Level 4
SOCIOLOGY
- Sociological Imagination
- Self and Society
- Media, Representation and Society
- Educating "Broken Britain"?
CRIMINOLOGY
- Understanding Crime and Criminology
Year 2: 120 credits at Level 5
SOCIOLOGY
- Race and the Modern World
- Work Based Learning
- Sociology of Truth
- Sociology of Sex work (optional)
- The Trouble with Youth (optional)
CRIMINOLOGY
- Criminal Justice, Mental Health and Crime
- Theories of Crime and Justice
Year 3: 120 credits at Level 6
SOCIOLOGY
- Social Change and Social Movements
- Contexts of Communication
- Dissertation
CRIMINOLOGY
- Terrorism: Context, Threat and Response
- Ethical Issues in Public Protection
*These modules are subject to change.
Timetables of study will be provided in programme handbooks at enrolment
Over the course of your time on the programme you will:
- Seek, recognise, reflect on, evaluate, learn from, and act on feedback
- Identify, explore, enact and adapt to opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Demonstrate and articulate and in-depth, nuanced understanding of an array of relevant sociological theories, concepts, issues and debates.
- Articulate and communicate key theories and sociological concepts to a variety of audiences through demonstrating the relevance that sociology has in everyday life.
- Select, produce and critically appraise various types of data from an array of sources to construct a sociological argument.
- Understand problems as they arise in a concrete context and their implications for different social groups, and be able to develop solutions that are mindful of different needs.
- Students will develop a national and international knowledge and understanding of criminology and criminal justice within real world settings.
- Students will develop a critically informed viewpoint about criminological issues and be able to communicate to specialist and non-specialist audiences with the aspiration to problem solve.
- As part of a diverse and inclusive learning community, students develop an awareness of social issues and contemporary criminal (in)justices. Through their studies students can develop integrity to pro-actively respond to issues.
- Students will develop academic, research and literacy skills during their studies in identifying sources and communicating information which can be applicable throughout lifelong learning.
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Entry Guidelines
You must be 18 or over on or before 31st August to study on this course.
It is recommended that students have one of the following qualifications before applying for the course. However, applications are welcome from students who may lack these qualifications but who can demonstrate their suitability to study at this level and have evidence of study in the last five years.
- A minimum of 80 UCAS Tariff points from GCE A Levels or equivalent
- BTEC National Diploma/Certificate
- Irish/Scottish Highers
- QAA recognised Access to HE Diploma, to include 45 credits at level 3.
- OCR National Extended Diploma (18 units)
Applicants must have GCSE English grade C-A*/4 to 9 or equivalent
Students without a relevant Level 3 qualification will be interviewed and must complete a comprehension task to demonstrate their ability to write to the standard expected.
Applicants will be expected to show the following at interview:
- An awareness of the skills and commitment needed to complete a 3 year degree
- Evidence that you have researched the content of the degree programme
If English is not your first language, you may need an assessment before enrolling on this course. To discuss further, please contact the ESOL department on 0151 551 7144.
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Where can I progress to?
A degree in Sociology with Criminology can lead you into various and diverse careers, further study and professional training upon completion of the course. The degree is recognised by numerous sectors and can lead to employment in social work, education, support work, youth services and probation services. As well as this you could also pursue a variety of careers in the prison sector or policing.
Upon completion of the programme you will be able to use the degree to enter the sectors outlined above or go on to complete relevant professional training such as an MA in Social Work or a PGCE to teach in primary, secondary or post-16 education.
Graduates could also use the degree to continue studying sociology, criminology or other relevant social science subjects at post-graduate level.
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Timetable
Two full days per week.
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Equipment Required
Computer access including internet access and reading materials such as books.
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Assessment Methods
Students will be expected to complete a variety of different assessments on the course including essays, reports, presentations, research projects, a dissertation and, on occasion, examinations.
Classes will be at a size that enhance learning and provide a positive, supportive and engaging learning environment. Study skills support will also be provided by the tutors to build your academic skills to complete assessed work.
Your personal tutor and subject tutors will provide support and guidance as necessary. The college also offers a range of support services relating to finances, learning difficulties, counselling and mental health.
If you're not eligible to study for free, the cost of this course is:
£8500.00
Olivia Sherlock
BA (Hons) Sociology with Criminology
I absolutely loved the course. I've enjoyed taking leadership over my own learning and being able to select which modules I want to study. I'm progressing on to study a PGCE.
