Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology (Single)

What will you study and other information about Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology

• What will I study?

  In Criminology students study 4 units throughout the two-year course.
  During the first academic year we focus on unit 1 where we investigate different types of crime, why certain crimes go unreported and what influences our perception of crime. We analyse how crime statistics are collected and evaluate their reliability.

  The second unit focuses on the biological, sociological and psychological reasons why people commit crime and the implications of this. Furthermore, we consider how social changes influence government policies and examine the impact of campaigns for change.

  Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime
  September-December
  Controlled Assessment- 25%

  Unit 2: Criminological Theories
  January- May
  External Exam- 25%
  In the second academic year students follow unit 3 which gives them a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system. They examine the various roles and personnel involved in criminal investigations, assess different techniques and evaluate how evidence is collected and processed. Students will learn about the role of the CPS and understand the trial process in court. They will investigate the use of evidence in legal cases and consider the role of magistrates and juries. Students then apply this knowledge to real life case studies and evaluate and assess actual trial verdicts.
  In the final unit, students apply their understanding of the awareness of criminality and criminological theories. They consider the structure of the criminal justice system and how laws are constructed and implemented. They focus on forms of social control and examine the use of various punishments. Students assess the impact of various organisations and their contribution in achieving social control.

  Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom
  September-December
  Controlled Assessment- 25%

  Unit 4: Crime and Punishment
  January- May
  External Exam- 25%

• Equipment and Financial contributions

  Criminology is a ‘Technology for Learning’ course which requires an electronic device to complete notes in class. It is recommended that laptops are used rather than iPads and Tablets due to some formatting issues with the lesson resources.

• Field trips, projects and employability opportunities

  We run a range of different opportunities for trips as part of the Social Sciences department such as Krakow and New York as well as subject specific trips including Salisbury Prison, Preston Crown Court, Blackpool Magistrates and Manchester Police Museum.

  We have links with multiple Criminology related agencies that take part in sessions and guest speaker talks such as the Crown Prosecution Service, Lancashire Constabulary, the Prison and Probation Service and the Ministry of Defence. We also book interactive crime scene sessions with outside agencies for a hands-on experience of Criminal Justice processes.