Criminology and History

Criminology and history is a combination that brings the analytical tools of the social sciences and the humanities to bear on questions about crime, justice, and the past in ways that each discipline illuminates the other. Criminology examines crime as a social phenomenon, exploring its causes, the responses of criminal justice institutions, and the experiences of victims, offenders, and communities. History provides the longer perspective, asking how crime, law enforcement, punishment, and ideas of justice have changed over time and what social, economic, political, and cultural forces have driven those changes.

Together, they develop a sophisticated and historically grounded understanding of crime and social order.

At Keele University, this three-year full-time programme develops critical thinking, analytical skills, and the professional capabilities needed to pursue careers across a range of sectors. You will engage with key themes of crime, justice, victimisation, and crime control alongside the historical forces that have shaped the world today. A sandwich placement year, a year abroad, and work placement opportunities are all built into the programme, giving you substantial professional and international experience before you graduate.

The typical entry tariff of 104 points reflects the accessible character of the degree.

You will develop research skills, the ability to evaluate evidence across different types of sources, critical analytical thinking, and the written and oral communication capabilities that both disciplines demand.

Graduates pursue careers in the police, the probation and prison services, youth justice, social work, journalism, the civil service, research, and the voluntary sector. The historical understanding that the degree develops is also valuable in heritage, policy, and education roles. Postgraduate study in criminology, history, or related fields is a natural continuation.