Criminology (Vocational A-Level)

Outline

The course is divided into four units.

Unit 1 – Changing Awareness of Crime

An introduction to Criminology, helping you understand how crime is defined, recognised and understood.

Unit 2 – Criminological Theories

Explore why people commit crime and examine different theories that try to explain criminal behaviour.

Unit 3 – Crime Scene to Courtroom

Follow the criminal justice process from investigation through to prosecution.

You will consider how suspects are identified, how evidence is gathered and how cases progress towards court.

Unit 4 – Crime and Punishment

Explore how crime is controlled, how offenders are punished and the roles of different professionals working within criminology and criminal justice.

Progression

Criminology can support progression into a range of careers connected to crime, justice, law and public services.

Crime Scene Investigation

You could progress towards roles involved in responding to crime scenes and gathering evidence within the police.

Crown Prosecution Service

Careers within prosecution can involve analysing evidence, deciding whether a case should proceed to trial and supporting the prosecution process in court.

Wider careers

The course can also support progression towards careers and further study in areas including:

• Law
• Psychology
• Teaching
• Town Planning
• Architecture

Assessment

The course is assessed through a combination of two examinations and two controlled assessments.

Controlled assessment

You will complete a timed, written assessment in which you apply your notes and knowledge to a range of tasks linked to a crime-related scenario.

Examination

You will complete a 90-minute examination based around three scenarios, applying your knowledge to each situation.

This combination of assessment methods will test your ability to understand criminological ideas, apply them to realistic situations and develop well-supported responses.

Entry Requirements

A combination of 5 Grade 4’s and 5’s or above at GCSE (including maths and English). * One Vocational Qualification in a related subject area will be considered in place of a GCSE.

* Fees

Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.

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