Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Criminology and Psychology

Understand criminality and learn how to investigate a murder, based on interpreting clues at a mocked-up crime scene, right to the point of presenting your findings to the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS).

Our typical offer

104 UCAS points

Secure your place this September

Already applied or yet to apply? Get guidance on the next steps you need to take to start a course in 2025.

Hands-on learning

Enter the Murder House and take part in live-action and virtual reality crime scenes to gain practical experience in multiple types of criminal investigations.

Investigate real cases

Join the Plymouth Cold Case Unit to test your research skills and gain hands-on experience investigating unsolved missing persons cases.

Expand your understanding of psychology

Study psychological theories, expand your understanding of areas such as clinical, social, developmental, biological and cognitive psychology and develop a variety of intellectual and practical skills.

About

Why do people commit a crime, and how do we deal with criminality? You will get under the skin of the criminal justice system and learn about how criminology can have an impact on promoting change. As one of the first universities to offer criminology, Plymouth has stayed at the cutting edge and goes far beyond the theoretical. You will immerse yourself in live-action and virtual reality crime scenes, and tackle face-to-face suspect interviews.


Professor Zoë James
Professor Zoë James
Professor of Criminology
A student from the Cold Case Unit writing on an evidence board

This course is for you if...

you're fascinated by the causes of crime and how the criminal justice system works
Hand holding scales of justice
you want to get hands-on, taking part in live-action and virtual reality crime scene simulations
Mug shot of person
you're motivated to put skills into practice with local and national criminal justice agencies
Three individuals in circles connected
you're committed to promoting social justice and aspire to make a meaningful impact in your community
Four heads linked together showing speech bubble in middle, depicting communication

Details

Year 1

In your first year you’ll be introduced to the criminal justice process in England and Wales, exploring the ideas and theories used to analyse criminology and crime problems and placing crime and criminology into social and historical context. You’ll also study the basic theories of psychology, developing a variety of intellectual and practical skills through topics including social and developmental psychology and the psychology of the everyday experience.
Students using the Moot Court in the Foulston Room

Core modules

CRM4001
Being a Criminologist 20 credits

This module is organised around the idea of the competent criminologist. It informs students about the constituent elements of competence, which include knowledge of crime, crime control and the wider contexts in which these are constructed; skills that facilitate the collection, use and critical analysis of academic, official and mediated sources of knowledge about crime; and values and ethics that inform both understandings and debates about crime and crime control. It seeks to provide students with a grounding of what it means to be a competent criminologist.

100% Coursework

CRM4002
Introduction to Criminological Theory 20 credits

This module introduces students to criminological theory. The module addresses the importance of theory in criminology, critically examines a range of criminological theories, and applies criminological thought to a variety of practical concerns throughout history, including contemporary social life.

100% Coursework

CRM4004
Forensic Criminology: Police Investigations 20 credits

This module introduces students to the processes, techniques and methods of criminal investigations which focuses on the police role from the crime scene to the courtroom. Students will be able to use skills learnt to carry out their own criminal investigation of a staged murder scenario. Important areas, such as crime scene investigation, forensic science and the use of evidence, are contextualised within the construction and prosecution of criminal cases. Students will also engage with criminal investigation topics such as professionalization, ethics, accountability, legitimacy, profiling and the media.

100% Coursework

CRM4005
Responses to Crime: An Introduction 20 credits

This module provides an overview of responses to crime in contemporary Britain. It examines responses to crime primarily in England & Wales, drawing upon comparative examples to explore similarities and differences. Its main focus is upon the criminal justice process, but the focus is also extended to approaches to crime founded upon different rationalities, such as restorative justice and risk management. This module will include two 2-hour talks that introduce our School and programme level employability related opportunities and support, including details of the optional placement year.

100% Coursework

PSYC419
Introduction to Cognitive Psychology and Applied Psychological Research 20 credits

This module consists of two strands. Strand 1 provides an introduction to Cognitive Psychology covering core topics such as perception, memory, attention and problem solving. Strand 2 focuses upon research methods in Applied Psychology and will cover areas such as how research has been applied to practical problems, research design, ethics, open science principles. Students will also take part in a simple piece of psychological research, aimed to help them understand the research process.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

PSYC420
Introduction to Social and Developmental Psychology 20 credits

This module consists of two strands. Strand 1 provides an introduction to Social Psychology covering core topics such as inter and intra groups processes, emotional processes and the self in a social world. Strand 2 focuses upon Developmental Psychology and will cover both cognitive development and social/emotional development of children from infancy to adolescence.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

Year 2

In your second year you will advance your awareness of criminological theory to enhance your understanding of the processes of criminal justice practice. Your training in research methods will provide you with an insight into research preparing you early for your final year dissertation project. You’ll also develop a greater understanding of areas such as clinical, social, developmental, biological and cognitive psychology and how these can be applied in practical settings.
psychology facilities

Core modules

CRM5002
Theorising Crime and Harm 20 credits

This module takes recent developments in criminological theory and analyses the potential for criminology as a discipline to contribute to understanding, contextualising and countering some of the greatest challenges facing society and the planet today. The emphasis on harm tests the boundaries of mainstream criminology, and encourages students to think beyond social and legal constructions of crime.

100% Coursework

CRM5004
Critical Perspectives on Crime Control 20 credits

This module examines a range of critical social scientific perspectives which have sought to make sense of crime control within its wider social context and in terms of its wider social significance. It considers the contributions of key social science theorists such as Stanley Cohen, David Garland, and Loic Wacquant and others whose work has focused upon crime control, and it seeks to apply their core ideas in order to illuminate our understanding of contemporary features of policy and practice.

100% Coursework

PSYC521
The Biological Basis of Behaviour 20 credits

The aim of this module is to give a basic overview of the physiological basis of human behaviour and the mechanisms underpinning complex cognition. This module consists of four strands. 1 Neuroscience (the nervous system) 2 Neuropsychology (cognitive neuroscience, research methods) 3 Evolutionary Psychology (adaptive explanations of behaviour) 4 Complex cognitive function (e.g., Language and Communication)

50% Practicals

50% Examinations

PSYC522
Individual Differences in Behaviour 20 credits

The aim of this module is to give an overview of how individuals vary in thinking, behaviour, and emotion, and the consequences this may have for their physical and mental health. This module consists of four strands. 1 Personality & Intelligence (development, measurement) 2 Health Psychology (physical health, behaviour change) 3 Clinical Psychology (definition, therapy) 4 Positive Psychology (mental health improvement)

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

SOC5008
The Social Science Research Process

This module builds on the Level 4 module ‘Social Science Research Methodologies’. In this module, students develop their knowledge and practical skills in qualitative and quantitative social research methodologies. The students also learn how to use computer software packages to help with the collection and analysis of data. In addition, students gain knowledge of how to create a research proposal.

Optional modules

SSC500
Stage 2 Professional Development, Placement Preparation and Identifying Opportunities 0 credits

This module is for students in the School of Society and Culture who are interested in undertaking an optional placement in the third year of their programme. It supports students in their search, application, and preparation for the placement, including developing interview techniques and effective application materials (e.g. CVs , portfolios, and cover letters).

CRM5009MX
Crime, Harm and Culture 20 credits

The module aims to provide students with a critical appreciation of harm and crime by exploring relevant issues from film, television, music, fiction literature and art. By applying a criminological lens to different forms of popular culture, students will be able to examine a variety of media forms in terms of its content and its contemporary political, social and economic context using different theories and concepts.

100% Coursework

Optional placement year

Gain valuable on-the-job experience through our optional placement year. We will support you in your second year in deciding whether to take this opportunity, and assist you in finding a placement and being prepared for it.
BSc (Hons) Psychology with Criminology - students in a garden with white suits and a white tent

Core modules

SSC601
School of Law, Humanities and Social Sciences Placement Year

Students have the opportunity to gain work experience that will set them apart in the job market when they graduate by undertaking an optional flexible placement year. The placement must be a minimum of 24-weeks (which can be split between a maximum of two different placement providers) and up to a maximum of 48-weeks over the course of the academic year. The placement is flexible and can be undertaken virtually, part or full time and either paid or voluntary. Students will have the option to undertake their placement year abroad. This year allows them to apply and hone the knowledge and skills acquired from the previous years of their programme in the real world.

Final year

In your final year, you’ll select a criminological issue to investigate for your dissertation, choosing to specialise in an area of your choice. You will also study modules that reflect new, emerging trends in criminology that reflect current local, national and world issues. This includes green criminology, leisure and deviancy, violence and harm, justice in practice, social change and global issues such as state crime, war and terrorism. You’ll also develop your understanding of psychology through academic debates, allowing you to pursue areas that reflect your interests.
Criminology student dusting for prints in a crime scene, during a simulation at the crime suite 'murder house'

Core modules

PSYC608
Applied Topics in Psychology 1 20 credits

This course allows students to develop an in depth and critical appreciation of two areas of psychological research (four topics drawn from the current research programmes of the School's staff).

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

PSYC609
Applied Topics in Psychology 2 20 credits

This course allows students to develop an in depth and critical appreciation of two areas of psychological research (four topics drawn from the current research programmes of the School's staff).

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

SOC6005
Dissertation

This module provides students with the opportunity to undertake their own sociological, criminological or anthropological research project, working independently but under the supervision of an academic member of staff.

Optional modules

CRM6006
Working for Justice 20 credits

This module supports students to reflect on the knowledge, skills and experience that they have acquired throughout their degree/extra-curricular activities, in order to focus on their vision for future employment and related activities. Students will engage with academics, careers and employability staff and practitioners working within the criminal justice field, and so develop concrete ideas for their pathways into employment and/or ongoing study.

70% Coursework

30% Practicals

CRM6008
Leisure, Consumerism and Harm 20 credits

This module explores contemporary developments within the study of leisure and consumerism, offering a theoretically informed understanding of key issues at the forefront of the discipline. Students will have the opportunity to study the changing nature of criminology’s engagement with leisure against a backdrop of global consumer capitalism.

100% Coursework

CRM6009
Fear, Crime and Control in the City 20 credits

This module critically examines steadfast and emergent social issues at the interplay between social control and the social, providing students with a critical understanding of how the social is regulated socially, culturally and legally. We will do this by looking as social issues in urban space. We will explore meanings, cultural significance, and political consequences from a criminological perspective.

100% Coursework

CRM6012
Critical Hate Studies 20 credits

This module presents the problem of ‘hate crime’ to students by identifying legislation, policy and practice that has been framed within its context in the UK and abroad. It will deconstruct the notion of hate crime and provide a critical reflection on the notion of ‘hate’ and its manifestations in late modernity.

100% Coursework

CRM6013
Building Resilience: Countering Terrorism 20 credits

This module provides students with an opportunity to explore the nature and contours of contemporary terrorist threats in a domestic and international context, and the infrastructures, policy frameworks, practices and technologies through which such threats are countered and responded to, both in the real and virtual worlds.

100% Coursework

CRM6016MX
Green Criminology: Climate Justice and the Planetary Crisis

This module will address theoretical perspectives, methodological issues, and empirical research related to the field of green criminology, including applied concerns, such as policy and social/political praxis, through a range of concepts, topics, and themes that are central to green criminology.

 
 
 

Personalise your degree

At Plymouth, your degree really is what you make it.

You can tailor your studies to focus on what fascinates you. By taking different options, you will gain a thorough grounding in your areas of interest – whether it be criminology related or a completely different subject such as history, politics or sociology. Whatever your passion, you will have the freedom to explore it.

I knew that Plymouth was very good for the course I wanted to do. They offered a flexible choice of modules, and I felt like I could choose modules I was interested in, and which fitted the career I wanted.

Kayleigh, National Probation Service
BSc (Hons) Criminology graduate
All our degrees have a wide range of optional modules and there is even the opportunity to study modules from any of the School of Society and Culture 's subject areas.
You could graduate with one of the following personalised course title combinations:
 
Criminology and Psychology with Anthropology

Modules

    ANT5008MX
    Brave New Worlds: Ethnography of/on Online and Digital Worlds 20 credits

    This module teaches students how to use ethnographic methods to make sense of the internet, which we now increasingly inhabit. Students learn how to navigate and analyse platforms such as Facebook or TikTok. They study how these technologies transform our relationships, identities, and ideas of truth. The module also examines the socio-cultural and ethical aspects of digital worlds (e.g. Second life).

    100% Coursework

    ANT6008MX
    Coastal Cultures: Marine Anthropology in the age of climate change and mass extinction. 20 credits

    Using ethnography, we analyse how coastal communities use the sea – not only as a source of livelihood, but as a key ingredient in the construction of their identity and place in world. Drawing on a range of cases from across the world – from Polynesian sorcerers, to Japanese whale mourners, to Cornish surfers – we study how coastal communities are responding to climate change, sea level rise, pollution, and extinction.

    100% Coursework

Criminology and Psychology with Art History

Modules

    ARH5002MX
    Imagery in Online and Offline Worlds: Film, Television and Video Games 20 credits

    This module provides students with a comprehensive understanding of current approaches towards mass media and visual culture. Particular emphasis will be put on medium-specificity, content analysis and audience studies.

    100% Coursework

    ARH6002MX
    Questions in Contemporary Art 20 credits

    The module introduces and examines selected questions raised in the last three decades in contemporary art. Case studies drawn from art history, critical and cultural theory, and where appropriate related disciplines, will be examined.

    100% Coursework

Criminology and Psychology with Creative Writing

Modules

    ENG5010MX
    Writing Creative Nonfiction: Autobiography, Travel Writing, Reportage 20 credits

    This module introduces students to the key concepts and issues in contemporary works of creative nonfiction, or 'life writing'. Included in our readings will be works of memoir and autobiography, travel writing, personal essays and reportage. The module is entirely taught in workshops where we experiment with producing our own works of creative nonfiction and learning to refine them, as well as critically evaluate and contextualise them.

    100% Coursework

    ENG6008MX
    Features Journalism Workshop 20 credits

    This module offers students an in-depth experience of professional writing. We will explore technique in features and literary journalism; music reviews, opinion columns and longer immersion features as well as other contemporary works of non-fiction feature writing, both short- and long-form, from sub-genres including profiles and interviews, autobiography and columns, travel writing, and reportage. We will learn to research and produce our own works of professional nonfiction and critically evaluate them.

    100% Coursework

Criminology and Psychology with English

Modules

    ENG5002MX
    Gothic Fictions: Villains, Virgins and Vampires 20 credits

    This module looks at eighteenth- and nineteenth-century novels to trace the variety and scope of literary contributions to the Gothic. It begins by discussing the origins of the Gothic novel, then moves to the heyday of the genre in the revolutionary 1790s, on to authors writing in the early and mid-nineteenth century, through to the decadence of the 1890s.

    100% Coursework

    ENG6005MX
    American Crime Writing 20 credits

    This module considers the development of twentieth-century American crime fiction from hard-boiled detectives, to myths of the mafia, and postmodern reinventions of the genre. This module will explore the cultural contexts of American crime writing, prevailing conventions of the genre, as well as challenges to those conventions.

    100% Coursework

Criminology and Psychology with History

Modules

    HIS5009MX
    Middle Kingdoms: Themes in Early Modern Asia 20 credits

    This module introduces the history of early modern Japan (c.16th-19th centuries). At one level, it explores key questions shaping the histories of the late Sengoku (‘Warring States’) and Tokugawa Japan. Building on these questions, it then situates the Japanese experience in a trans-regional perspective with reference to early modern China, Korea, Ryukyu, as well as Europe.

    Explore this module

    100% Coursework

    HIS5014MX
    Dunkirk to D Day: The Second World War in Europe 20 credits

    The module examines the Second World War in Europe and the Atlantic Ocean from 1940 to late 1944.

    Explore this module

    100% Coursework

    HIS6002MX
    Piracy and Privateering, c.1560-1816 20 credits

    This module explores piracy and privateering activity in the seas around the British Isles and further afield from the reign of Queen Elizabeth to the end of the second Barbary War in 1816. This course focuses on the social history of piracy and privateering, the organisation of pirate society, and the economic impact of piracy and privateering.

    Explore this module

    100% Coursework

    HIS6006MX
    America, the United Nations and International Relations 1945 to the present 20 credits

    This module provides a detailed examination of the relationship between the United States of America and the United Nations in the management of international relations from 1945 to the present.

    Explore this module

    100% Coursework

Criminology and Psychology with International Relations

Modules

    PIR6009MX
    Mao to Now: the Politics of Modern China

    This module introduces students to politics in China. It provides them with the analytical skills and historical understanding to examine the structure of the contemporary Chinese state, looking in particular at Maoist legacies, nationalism and ideology, the relationships between party, law, state and market, and China’s involvement in international affairs.

    PIR6007MX
    Global Environmental Politics 20 credits

    This module examines the problem of environmental degradation and its implications for our global political economy. It discusses the major debates in political thought around the primary causes of environmental degradation. The module outlines the major attempts to build international regimes for global environmental governance, and the difficulties and obstacles that such attempts have encountered. A range of ideas, critiques, policy proposals, innovations in governance, and templates for political activism within the environmental movement are critically evaluated.

    100% Coursework

    PIR5009MX
    Refugee Studies 20 credits

    This module focuses on the political, economic and social context of forced migration and considers the complex and varied nature of global refugee populations. It analyses responses at international, national and regional level and engages with a range of challenging questions around international co-operation, the framework of international protection, humanitarianism and the causes of displacement.

    100% Coursework

Criminology and Psychology with Politics

Modules

    PIR6009MX
    Mao to Now: the Politics of Modern China

    This module introduces students to politics in China. It provides them with the analytical skills and historical understanding to examine the structure of the contemporary Chinese state, looking in particular at Maoist legacies, nationalism and ideology, the relationships between party, law, state and market, and China’s involvement in international affairs.

    PIR5013MX
    Politics Beyond Parliaments 20 credits

    This module analyses the role of civil society and the public sphere in democratic governance and in democratization from a variety of theoretical perspectives.

    100% Coursework

Criminology and Psychology with Sociology

Modules

    SOC5005MX
    Globalisation and Social Justice 20 credits

    This module investigates the key debates of globalisation and critically evaluates, in terms of its economic, political, socio-cultural and legal dimensions, the causes and consequences of a globalising world. It furthermore explores a range of international social justice issues to examine the relationships (causative and ameliorative) between policies and (in)justice

    60% Coursework

    40% Practicals

    SOC6004MX
    Health, Medical Power and Social Justice 20 credits

    This module considers a range of issues concerning health, illness and medical power in contemporary society. The module seeks to develop an understanding of the impact of ‘medicalisation’ on everyday life, as well as the importance of social divisions, such as age, gender, ethnicity and socio-economic status. There will be a focus on a range of sociological perspectives on health with an opportunity to focus upon areas of particular interest.

    100% Coursework

Criminology and Psychology with Law

Modules

    LAW5009MX
    Environmental Law 20 credits

    The module provides an examination of key themes in environmental law, with a focus on the generation, application and enforcement of this law within a critical and applied context.

    100% Coursework

    LAW5011MX
    Intellectual Property Law

    This module focuses on the law and concepts of intellectual property, examining in addition related legal themes of information access, dissemination and control.

    LAW6018MX
    Law, Literature and the Screen

    To introduce students to fictional and factional representations of the legal order in prose, film and TV, and to examine the inter-connections between law, literature and the screen.

    LAW6012MX
    Public International Law 20 credits

    A module that focuses on the primary legal principles of the public international legal order, before exploring a range of substantive areas, such as, for example, the use of force, the law regulating the conduct of war, International Human Rights, International Criminal Law and International Environmental Law.

    100% Coursework

Criminology and Psychology with Policing and Security Management

Modules

    CRM5009MX
    Crime, Harm and Culture 20 credits

    The module aims to provide students with a critical appreciation of harm and crime by exploring relevant issues from film, television, music, fiction literature and art. By applying a criminological lens to different forms of popular culture, students will be able to examine a variety of media forms in terms of its content and its contemporary political, social and economic context using different theories and concepts.

    100% Coursework

    CRM6016MX
    Green Criminology: Climate Justice and the Planetary Crisis

    This module will address theoretical perspectives, methodological issues, and empirical research related to the field of green criminology, including applied concerns, such as policy and social/political praxis, through a range of concepts, topics, and themes that are central to green criminology.

    CRM5003MX
    Harm in the 21st Century 20 credits

    This module explores the global challenges of harmful behaviours and activities in contemporary society by considering specific areas of concern for criminologists. By drawing on real-world examples in everyday life, the module examines how social problems and issues have arisen due to processes of globalisation that have changed the social, political and economic landscape of the 21st century.

    100% Coursework

 
 
 

Alternative course pathways

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Experience

Investigate 'The Murder House' Crime Suite

Examine simulated crime scenes and real missing persons cases
Learn by doing in scenarios that are based on real-life investigations in our state-of-the-art crime, interview and simulated policing suite. You'll be able to explore physical crime scenes, harvest forensic material, learn and practise police interview techniques and analyse CCTV footage.
The unique combination of immersive learning and our staff expertise sets us apart as the only university in the South West peninsula providing this exceptional student experience.

Witness mock trials and observe the justice system

Situated inside The Box, Plymouth's £40 million cultural hub, the University uses The Foulston Room for its moot court facility.
In our very own mock courtroom, you can gain an insight into the criminal justice system through observing mock trial scenarios.

The Foulston Room offers our criminology students such a unique and valuable experience. To set foot in such a historic building, walk up its grand staircase and enter into an environment that authentically looks and feels like a real courtroom, provides our students with insights into how a courtroom in the UK criminal justice system looks and operates.

Soozi BaggsMs Soozi Baggs
Lecturer in Criminology

Become an investigator

By joining the Plymouth Cold Case Unit (PCCU), you can investigate a range of unsolved missing persons cases.
Uncover new evidence which can be used by the police to solve these cases while gaining experience and skills – including investigative, analytical and social – to help launch you into a rewarding career. As part of this student-led, expert-guided group, you'll have access to international connections alongside facilities and training at both the University of Plymouth and Locate International.
Your work will give families of missing people comfort from knowing their loved ones have not been forgotten.
Applications are open to all foundation and year 1 students in the School of Society and Culture.
Students and staff of the Cold Case Unit discussing an evidence board on the Salcombe Man

After hearing the details about cold cases and how there are not enough resources to revisit them, and knowing that I could help bring resolution to the families and friends of missing people, I felt it was my duty to help – the PCCU gave me a chance to do that.

Natasha Hughes, 

















BSc
(Hons) Criminology
 
 
 
 
 
 

Innovative teaching led by experts

We believe in the importance of integrating our strong national and international research within our teaching.
Our innovative teaching methods incorporate contemporary technologies such as VR, AI, and the exploration of forensic techniques and analysis – actively encouraging students to challenge the boundaries of criminological ideas.
Ms Soozi Baggs Lecturer in Criminology


Lecturer in Criminology

Dr Sharon Beckett Lecturer in Criminology (Education)


Lecturer in Criminology (Education)

Dr Iain Channing Lecturer in Criminology


Lecturer in Criminology

Show all
 
 
 

Enrich your studies – join CrimSoc

The Criminology Society is open to anyone studying or interested in criminology and related fields. The society organises events, socials, and study groups, capitalising on the theme of crime and the police, to foster community and engagement among members. Make friends, develop skills and enjoy new experiences.
Join CrimSoc
Criminology society members
 
 
 

Life in Plymouth

Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Coming from London to the coastal city of Plymouth, I have enjoyed settling into a new environment, meeting new people and facing new challenges. I chose Plymouth because I wanted to be in a place where it’s not always busy and challenging to travel around. It is a great place to stay as everything is within walking distance and I have not had to worry about spending money on travel to the city centre or the sea.

Sidney, BSc (Hons) Criminology student

Sidney De Souza - BSc (Hons) Criminology student taking part in a simulated crime scene

Careers

When I started university I didn't know exactly what I wanted to do as a career. Studying at Plymouth, I developed a deeper understanding of the different career paths I could go down. The knowledge of my lecturers meant they could give me real advice on what it is like to be a Probation Officer, which helped me make the decision I did.

Kayleigh, National Probation Service, BSc (Hons) Criminology graduate

Kayleigh McCluskey
Criminology graduates gain a broad skill set that appeals to employers. This interdisciplinary degree develops practical, analytical, and emotional intelligence skills, opening diverse career opportunities. Direct links to criminology within the public sector include the criminal justice system and its agencies, local government, policy making and police work. Working with people is a key requirement, so working as a PCSO, welfare worker, paralegal or probation support worker are also exciting options.
Our students receive support from an Employability and Community Knowledge Exchange Projects Officer, connecting you to networking events and collaborations with criminal justice agencies. Through the Sustainable Social Justice Initiative, you can engage with stakeholders on projects like online scam awareness and community-based social justice campaigns.
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Data for BSc (Hons) Criminology.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time UK students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
Part-time study
£795 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year. Following final Parliamentary approval in March 2025, the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year
Full-time study
£17,600 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,905
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,430
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Careers Hub

Apply

Secure your place this September

Use our helpful application support tool at any time to find out what you need to do to secure your place at the University of Plymouth.
Check what you need to do
Three students sitting on a wall at the Barbican eating fish and chips
 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
104 UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

GCSE

All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) mathematics and English at grade 4/C or above.

A levels

104 points from a minimum of 2 A levels. Excluding general studies.

18 Unit BTEC Extended Diploma

DMM in any subject.

BTEC National Diploma modules

If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

All Access courses

Pass a named Access to HE Diploma in any subject with at least 33 credits at merit/distinction.

T level

Merit in any subject.

International Baccalaureate

26-30 overall to include 4 at any Higher Level subject. English and Maths accepted within: Higher Level = 4 Standard Level = 5.

Other

14-19 Diploma accepted – please enquire. Other combinations and non-A level qualifications also considered.

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
LC68
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Plymouth

Other routes into this course

The following courses are available as routes into this programme.

BSc (Hons) Criminology with Foundation

Get under the skin of the criminal justice system and learn how criminology can have an impact on promoting change. Choosing Criminology with Foundation will ensure you are confident and prepared to take the next step onto the Criminology degree.

 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

English language requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
UCAS course code
LC68
Institution code
P60
Duration

3 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
Plymouth

Other routes to this course

If you do not have the required qualifications for this course, you may be able to gain them through the University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) .
 
 
 

Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
Book your place
Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
 
 
 
The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.