| UCAS code | M900 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Discipline | Criminology |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| Typical offer | |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBB |
| UCAS code | M901 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Discipline | Criminology |
| Contact | Web: Enquire online |
| UCAS code | M906 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years |
| Entry year | 2025 |
| Campus | Streatham Campus |
| Discipline | Criminology |
| Contact |
| Typical offer | A-Level: AAB |
|---|---|
|
A-Level: BBB |
Overview
- You will not only study policing, prisons and probation but also learn about international conflict, war and crime, transnational justice and human rights
- Run by the University's Centre for Computational Social Science (C2S2), you will learn transferable skills in data analysis, such as coding, that are increasingly in-demand by the vast majority of employers, both within and outside of the criminal justice and investigation sector.
- Our optional work placement gives you the opportunity to use your new skills in the real world. Typically lasting 3 to 6 weeks you can choose from a wide range of organisations and receive a bursary.
- You’ll gain a full range of social research and specific technical skills suitable for developing careers within the criminal justice system, policy development NGOs or research-based careers
Top 15 in the UK for Criminology
15th in the Guardian University Guide 2025
100% of our Sociology research has internationally excellent impact
Based on research impact rated 4* + 3* in REF 2021. Our research in Sociology, Philosophy, Anthropology and Criminology was returned to this UoA
Commitment to interdisciplinary teaching and research
Opportunities to study abroad
Top 15 in the UK for Criminology
15th in the Guardian University Guide 2025
100% of our Sociology research has internationally excellent impact
Based on research impact rated 4* + 3* in REF 2021. Our research in Sociology, Philosophy, Anthropology and Criminology was returned to this UoA
Commitment to interdisciplinary teaching and research
Opportunities to study abroad
One of the highlights of my course is the emphasis on quantitative analysis. To the uninitiated, that can sound extremely daunting, but I am so incredibly grateful for the numerous doors such a skill will open for me.
The large variety of available modules also makes it possible for students to tailor their experience however they wish, with classes ranging from Forensic Science to Terrorism.
Simone
Undergraduate student, BSc Criminology
Entry requirements (typical offer)
| Qualification | Typical offer | Required subjects |
|---|---|---|
| A-Level | AAB | n/a |
| IB | 34/665 | n/a |
| BTEC | DDD | n/a |
| GCSE | C or 4 | English Language |
| Access to HE | 30 L3 credits at Distinction Grade and 15 L3 credits at Merit Grade | N/A |
| T-Level | Distinction | N/A |
| Contextual Offer | A-Level: BBB |
Specific subject requirements must still be achieved where stated above. Find out more about contextual offers. |
| Other accepted qualifications | ||
| English language requirements |
International students need to show they have the required level of English language to study this course. The required test scores for this course fall under Profile B2. Please visit our English language requirements page to view the required test scores and equivalencies from your country. |
|
NB General Studies is not included in any offer.
Grades advertised on each programme webpage are the typical level at which our offers are made and provide information on any specific subjects an applicant will need to have studied in order to be considered for a place on the programme. However, if we receive a large number of applications for the programme we may not be able to make an offer to all those who are predicted to achieve/have achieved grades which are in line with our typical offer. For more information on how applications are assessed and when decisions are released, please see: After you apply
Course content
Full-time undergraduate students need to complete modules worth a total of 120 credits each year.
The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand.
The first year gives you a foundational knowledge of criminology and social theory, methods and concepts. You will also gain important analytical techniques that will be useful across a range of subjects and research tasks.
You will take 90 credits of compulsory modules. You should select a further 30 credits of optional modules (in other words two 15 credit modules). Examples are listed below. Available modules will be subject to change each year.
90 credits of compulsory modules, 30 credits of optional modules.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SSI1005 | Introduction to Social Data | 15 |
| SSI1006 | Data Analysis in Social Science 1 | 15 |
| SOC1001 | Social Analysis | 30 |
| SOC1039 | Social Issues: Part I - Introducing Crime and Deviance | 15 |
| SOC1040 | Social Issues: Part II - Themes in Criminology | 15 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Criminology Stage 1 Option Modules 2024-5 | ||
| SOC1028 | Media and Society | 15 |
| ANT1000 | Introduction to Social Anthropology | 30 |
| ANT1013 | Traditions of Anthropological Inquiry | 30 |
| SOC1000 | Contemporary Society: Themes, Perspectives and Case Studies | 30 |
| SOC1052 | Contested Concepts in Social Research | 15 |
| SOC1045 | Introduction to Criminal Justice | 15 |
60 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits of optional modules.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SOC2035 | International Criminal Justice: Comparative Criminology | 15 |
| SOC2036 | International Criminal Justice: Application of Theory to Transnational and International Crime | 15 |
| SSI2004 | Research Design in the Social Sciences | 15 |
| SSI2005 | Data Analysis in Social Science 2 | 15 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Criminology Stage 2 Option Modules 2024-5 | ||
| ARC2514 | Forensic Anthropology | 15 |
| BIO2068 | Forensic Science | 30 |
| PHL2061 | Philosophy of Law | 15 |
| SOC2024 | Power and Domination | 15 |
| SOC2063 | Policy Analysis in Criminology | 15 |
| SOC2068 | Race, Ethnicity and Criminalisation | 15 |
| SOC2069 | Crimes of the Powerful | 15 |
| SOC2098 | Sociology of Imprisonment | 15 |
| SOC2101 | Police and Policing | 15 |
| SOC2104 | Victimology | 15 |
| SOC2133 | The Anthropology of Prisons | 15 |
| SOC2135 | Forensic Cultures | 15 |
| SOC2136 | Deprivation of liberty: Imprisonment and beyond | 15 |
| SOC2033 | Addiction | 15 |
| SOC2126 | Forensic Science, Conflict and Justice | 15 |
| SOC2137 | Organised Crime and Criminal Networks | 15 |
| POL2057 | Security Studies | 15 |
30 credits of compulsory modules, 90 credits of optional modules.
Compulsory modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| SSI3019 | Quantitative Dissertation | 30 |
Optional modules
| Code | Module | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Criminology Final Stage Option Modules 2024-5 | ||
| ARC3510 | Experimental Approaches to Forensic and Archaeological Investigations | 15 |
| PHL3061 | Philosophy of Law | 15 |
| PSY3411 | Psychology and Law | 15 |
| SOC3034 | International Criminal Justice: Comparative Criminology | 15 |
| SOC3036 | International Criminal Justice: Application of Theory to Transnational and International Crime | 15 |
| SOC3098 | Sociology of Imprisonment | 15 |
| SOC3101 | Police and Policing | 15 |
| SOC3104 | Victimology | 15 |
| SOC3121 | Policy Analysis in Criminology | 15 |
| SOC3126 | Race, Ethnicity and Criminalisation | 15 |
| SOC3127 | Crimes of the Powerful | 15 |
| SOC3134 | Forensic Science, Conflict and Justice | 15 |
| SOC3141 | The Anthropology of Prisons | 15 |
| SOC3143 | Forensic Cultures | 15 |
| SOC3145 | Deprivation of liberty: Imprisonment and beyond | 15 |
| SOC3033 | Addiction | 15 |
| SOC3111 | Evidence-Based Policing | 15 |
| SOC3115 | Deception | 15 |
| SOC3149 | Organised Crime and Criminal Networks | 15 |
Course variants
UCAS code: M901
Our four-year ‘with Study Abroad’ degree, offers you the possibility of spending your third year abroad, studying with one of our many partner universities.
Why Study Abroad?
Living and studying in a different country is an exciting experience that broadens your academic and cultural horizons, as well as giving you the opportunity to widen your circle of friends. Students who have studied abroad demonstrate initiative, independence, motivation and, depending on where they stay, may also have gained a working knowledge of another language – all key qualities that employers are looking for in today’s competitive employment environment.
Where can I Study Abroad?
We have partnership arrangements with many prestigious institutions across the globe. Exactly where you can apply to study will depend on the subjects you are studying at Exeter. For a full list please visit the Study Abroad website.
Does it count towards my degree?
Credit for academic work during your year abroad is arranged by agreement between the University of Exeter and the host institution. These marks are then translated back into your degree at Exeter. If you are Studying Abroad for a semester or full year, your time abroad will count toward your final degree. Please refer to your College Study Abroad co-ordinator for further details.
How does it affect my tuition fee and funding?
For the year that you spend studying abroad you will pay a significantly reduced tuition fee to Exeter, but nothing to your host university – for more information visit our fees pages. You will continue to receive a maintenance loan if you are eligible for this whilst on your Study Abroad year.
UCAS code: M906
Our four-year ‘with Employment Experience Abroad’ degree, offers you the possibility of spending your third year abroad, carrying out a graduate-level work placement or placements as part of your degree.
Why choose to include Employment Experience Abroad?
Spending up to a year living and working in a different country is an exciting experience that broadens your academic and cultural horizons, as well as giving you the opportunity to widen your circle of friends. By carrying out a graduate-level work placement or placements abroad you can demonstrate to employers your adaptability, cultural awareness, independence and resourcefulness and, depending on where you stay, may also have gained a working knowledge of another language.
Where will I do my work placement?
The sector and country you choose to work within is very much your choice as you will be responsible for finding and organising your placement. We will provide plenty of guidance and support during your first and second years which will prepare you to research and apply for placements. Ultimately, the university will give final approval to your placement to make sure you have a valuable experience.
How does it affect my tuition fee?
For your ‘Year In Industry’ you will pay a significantly reduced tuition fee to Exeter – for more information visit our fees pages. If you were previously eligible, you will continue to receive a maintenance loan whilst on your year of work placement/s.
Is the placement paid?
You will be paid in accordance with the rules of the country you work in and there may be visa restrictions or requirements which you need to consider when applying.
Find out more
Visit our website to learn more about employment experience opportunities.
Fees
Tuition fees for 2025 entry
UK students: £9,535 per year
International students: £24,700 per year
Scholarships
The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support your education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students, such as our Global Excellence Scholarships*. Financial support is also available for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, lower income households and other under-represented groups to help them access, succeed and progress through higher education.
* Terms and conditions apply. See online for details.
Learning and teaching
How will I learn
We use a wide range of teaching and learning methods and also ensure that you have regular tutorials with your tutor, together with a small group of students to discuss oral and written assignments. Teaching includes:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Group work
- Practical exercises
- Small group tutorials
- Independent study
You will also have access to personal and subject tutors who will give you the individual help and guidance you need to succeed.
How will I be assessed?
- Exams
- Essays
- Projects
- Field work notebooks
- Dissertation in your final year
You must pass your first year modules in order to proceed but your performance at this level does not count towards your final degree classification
ExeTalks
ExeTalks are a chance to discover some of the fascinating research undertaken at the University of Exeter delivered by the academics who teach on our programmes.
Optional modules outside of this course
Each year, if you have optional modules available, you can take up to 30 credits in a subject outside of your course. This can increase your employability and widen your intellectual horizons.
Proficiency in a second subject
If you complete 60 credits of modules in one of the subjects below, you may have the words 'with proficiency in [e.g. Social Data Science]' added to your degree title when you graduate.
- A Foreign Language
- Data Science
- Entrepreneurship
- Innovation
- Law (Penryn Campus only)
- Leadership
- Management
- Social Data Science
Your future
As a BSc Criminology graduate you will have a full range of social science research skills and specific technical skills which will be attractive to employers across a wide spectrum of careers. Alongside this you will also develop a range of professional, academic and personal skills including:
- Analytical, critical and independent thinking
- Collect, assess and present evidence
- Quantitative research methods and statistics
- Qualitative research including interviewing and thematic data analysis
- Independent research
- Discussion and group work
- Written and verbal communication
- Articulating ideas and arguments
- Organising, planning and time management
Career paths
The broad range of transferable skills gained on a Criminology degree enable graduates to pursue further study or employment in a wide range of careers including:
- Crown Prosecution Service
- Probation and prison services
- Youth offending teams
- Law enforcement agencies
- Voluntary sector working with offenders or victims
- Teaching, academic or research
- Social research
- Charities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in the UK and abroad
- Management and administration
Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award
Many of our students participate in the Exeter Award and Exeter Leaders Award. These schemes encourage you to participate in employability related workshops, skills events, volunteering and employment which will contribute to your career decision-making skills and success in the employment market.
Developing your skills and career prospects
We provide a range of support to help you develop skills attractive to employers. You will be able to access a range of specific activities such as careers skills sessions and employer-led events, or seek bespoke advice and support from Employability Officers.
The Career Zone also organises a busy schedule of activities including careers fairs, skills workshops, and training events, and can advise on graduate opportunities and volunteering.
