An understanding of Criminology is relevant to many job roles within the criminal justice sector, social and probation work, sociology and psychology. This course has elements of psychology, law and sociology that complement studies in humanities.
The course is designed primarily to support learners progressing to university and it focuses on the acquisition of knowledge and understanding in purposeful contexts linked to the criminal justice system. Alternatively, students can consider employment within some aspects of the criminal justice system, e.g. the National Probation Service, the Courts and Tribunals Service or the National Offender Management Service.
It is often studied alongside other Level 3 qualifications in Law (both A Level and BTEC options are available at Cadbury Sixth Form College), Psychology and Sociology.
A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 and above, including Maths, with at least two at grade 6, including English or another essay-based subject.
There are 4 mandatory units to study:
Changing awareness of crime
Criminology Theories
Crime Scene to Courtroom
Crime and Punishment
Assessment
Units 1 and 3 are controlled assessments that are internally assessed.
Units 2 and 4 are externally assessed examinations.
Unit 4 is a synoptic paper which means that elements of Units 1, 2, 3 and 4 will be tested in the exam.
All elements must be passed and grading is awarded from A-E.
Units 2 & 4 are assessed via examination: 1 hour 30 minutes each.
Examination
Units 2 and 4 are assessed via examination: 1 hour 30 minutes each, taken in June.
Exam Board
WJEC