Criminology
Criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminal behaviour, asking why people commit offences, how society defines and responds to deviance, how the criminal justice system operates in practice, and what works in preventing crime and rehabilitating offenders. It draws on sociology, psychology, law, philosophy and policy analysis, making it genuinely interdisciplinary in its approach. Criminology engages with some of the most pressing questions in contemporary society, from policing and sentencing to the treatment of victims and the long-term social conditions that influence offending.
At the University of Northampton this four-year full-time programme begins with a foundation year, which provides a structured route into degree-level study for ambitious students who are developing the academic skills needed to engage with higher education. The foundation year is designed to be both intellectually stimulating and personally supportive, building the confidence and capability to succeed in the main degree. The typical entry tariff for this programme is around 32 UCAS points, reflecting the inclusive and developmental character of the foundation route.
From the foundation you progress through the core criminology content, studying crime theories, the criminal justice system, victimology, policing, penology and research methods alongside more specialist topics.
Graduates of criminology programmes enter a wide range of careers within and beyond the criminal justice system. Probation, prison and youth justice services, the police, social work, community development and restorative justice programmes are among the most direct destinations. Others move into policy research, charity and third-sector organisations working on crime prevention, victim support or drug and alcohol services.
The research, analytical and communication skills developed on a criminology degree are also valued in journalism, public administration and human resources. Postgraduate study in criminology, criminal justice, social policy or law is a natural next step for those who wish to specialise or pursue academic research.