Criminology and Human Biology

Criminology and human biology is a combination that brings together the study of why crime happens and how societies respond, with the biological sciences that underpin our understanding of the human body and its forensic dimensions. Criminology draws on sociology, psychology, and law to examine the causes of crime, the operation of the criminal justice system, and the social forces that shape what counts as criminal. Human biology adds a scientific perspective on human anatomy, physiology, genetics, and the biological evidence that is central to forensic investigation and criminal justice practice.

At Liverpool Hope University, this three-year, full-time programme develops both areas in depth, asking how crime is defined, who makes those decisions, and why people commit crimes, alongside the biological sciences that are increasingly central to forensic evidence and criminal investigation. A sandwich year, year abroad option, and work placement opportunities are all available, giving you professional experience in criminological, biological, or forensic contexts and the chance to develop your knowledge in a range of professional environments.

The combination is particularly well-suited to careers at the intersection of science and criminal justice, including forensic science, forensic pathology support roles, crime scene investigation, health-related criminal justice roles, and research. Graduates also move into careers in probation, social work, law enforcement, public health, research, and education, depending on which strand of the combination they wish to develop. Many continue to postgraduate study in criminology, forensic science, human biology, or law, building specialist expertise in a combination that opens genuinely distinctive career pathways.