EXAM BOARD: WJEC/EDUQAS

SPECIFICATION LINK: Level 3 4543QD

TITLE: Applied Diploma in Criminology Level 3

Why study Criminology at William Farr?

Criminology offers an intriguing exploration of crime, justice, and society. While not an A Level, it provides students with valuable insights into criminal behaviour, on individual, social and biological levels, and how it can be managed, controlled and prevented. At William Farr, we will show you how to use theories of criminality to analyse criminal situations and make recommendations for policy. You will develop the knowledge and skills to research policy in practice, assess campaigns for changes in awareness and examine information to review verdicts in criminal cases. Students will also get the chance to listen to a Criminology speaker and visit a court.

Our staff are excited to deliver this course and you’ll be supported by dedicated teachers who will guide you through this applied subject, preparing you for further study or careers in related fields, while benefiting from the same caring ethos and commitment to excellence that defines our Sixth Form.

What will you study?

This course comprises of four units in total, two internally assessed units and two externally assessed units. Units 1 and 2 are studied in the first year and units 3 and 4 are studied in year 2.

In Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime, students learn why some crimes go unreported, how the media represents crime, and how campaigns can raise public awareness. Unit 2: Criminological Theories introduces biological, psychological, and sociological explanations for criminal behaviour, helping students analyse why people offend and evaluate how well different theories explain crimes ranging from white-collar offences to serious violent acts.

In Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom, students follow the progression of a criminal case from the initial crime scene to the final verdict, exploring the roles of investigators, forensic specialists, and legal professionals, as well as the techniques used to collect and assess evidence. Unit 4: Crime and Punishment focuses on how the criminal justice system operates, how agencies work together, how laws are made in the UK, and how theories and procedures influence sentencing and the purposes of punishment.

Where can Criminology lead?

Criminology can lead to careers across the criminal justice system and beyond, including roles such as police officer, detective, probation or prison officer, youth justice worker, and crime scene investigator, as well as opportunities in social work, community development, border and security services, and offender rehabilitation. It also provides pathways into research, policy, and academia, with transferable skills that are valued in law, government, and charities tackling crime prevention and social justice.