Criminology is the study of crime and criminals. In the first year, students examine theories of crime, including the nature versus nurture debate in an attempt to decide whether criminals are born or moulded by the environment they are raised in. They also look at how campaign groups and the media can influence changes in the law.

The second year involves learning about the various procedures and personnel involved in detecting crimes, such as the police and crime scene investigators. The final unit focusses on how institutions like the courts and prisons try to punish and ultimately control crime.

The course is modular and assessment takes place in December and May each year. In December there is a controlled coursework assessment and in May there is an external examination. This is then repeated in year two. The course is equivalent to one A-Level and carries the same UCAS points for university entry.