Course Summary
Enables learners to demonstrate a depth of knowledge of the criminal justice sector that shows thorough understanding of criminal behaviour and the functions of the criminal justice sector including forensic sciences, police and other personnel.
This is a growing subject nationally and the first Criminology course offered at Level 3. It covers an exciting range of topics, covering the Changing Awareness of Crime, Criminological Theories, Crime Scene to Courtroom and Crime and Punishment. The qualification allows learners to gain the required understanding and skills to be able to consider employment within some aspects of the Criminal Justice System, Law, or police force e.g. The National Probation Service, or the Courts and Tribunals Service or the National Offender Management Service.
Students will examine the nature of different types of crime and problems concerning its measurement and distribution. This course examines some of the popular images of crime in the media and elsewhere, the creation and utility of official and unofficial crime statistics, and theories about causes of crime. This course provides an analysis of different criminological perspectives and is an introduction of methodological issues in criminology.
The emphasis is on critical evaluation and application of the basic instruments of inquiry. The course addresses such fundamental problems as why behaviour is defined as criminal, the causes of crime, and the consequences for the individual of being labelled as a criminal.
Key Topics
Students will examine the nature of different types of crime and problems concerning its
measurement and distribution. This course examines some of the popular images of crime in
the media and elsewhere, the creation and utility of official and unofficial crime statistics, and theories about the causes of crime. The course provides an analysis of different criminological perspectives and is an introduction to methodological issues in criminology.
Assessment
Written exams, controlled assessment.
Enrichment Opportunities
Visit to Portsmouth University’s Institute of Criminal Justice Studies as well as their Scene of Crime facility, trips to Portsmouth Law Courts, Portsmouth Mock Trial, Hampshire Police talks, Forensic workshop and much more.
Progression
Progression routes:
This course carries UCAS points towards Higher Education and University or multiple career
paths.
Potential university courses:
Criminology, Political Science, Sociology, Law, Psychology, Clinical Psychology.
Potential career paths:
Police Force, CSI units, Forensic Sciences, Prison Service, Social Welfare Services, Armed Forces and the Criminal Justice System
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs Grades 4 – 9. Preferably including English Language Grade 5 or above.