WJEC Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology
Ms M Porter – mporter@sackvilleschool.org.uk
“The course is very interesting and I personally loved the whole two years of learning about it. The teaching has also been fantastic! Definitely one of my favourite subjects.” Year 13 student voice, 2024
If you are fascinated by crime and punishment, then Criminology is for you. It is the academic study of crime, drawing on aspects of sociology, psychology and law. Because this is an applied course, everything you learn is tailored towards understanding, explaining and preventing crime in the real world. Criminology can open doors to a range of exciting degree courses, apprenticeships and future careers.
You will explore the causes, consequences and prevention of crime; the role of the media in our understanding of crime; the effectiveness of campaigns for change related to crime, and the processes and people involved in a criminal investigation, from crime scene to courtroom.
To succeed on this course, you will need to be an effective independent learner, with excellent research, organisational and IT skills and a great work ethic. You will need to hit the ground running as you will be assessed for Unit 1 at the end of the Autumn term in Year 12.
- Unit 1: Changing awareness of crime (8-hour controlled assessment; internally assessed)
- Unit 2: Criminological theories (90 minute exam)
- Unit 3: Crime scene to courtroom (8-hour controlled assessment; internally assessed)
- Unit 4: Crime and punishment (90 minute exam)
2x 8-hour controlled assessments, completed in school.
2x 90-minute exams
All students will be entered for the one-year certificate in Year 12 and must complete and pass Units 1 and 2. At the end of Year 13, if you have passed all four units, you’ll be awarded the Applied Diploma in Criminology (graded A* to E), which is equivalent to one A Level and accepted by most Universities.
What can I do with this qualification?
Applied Criminology fits particularly well with Sociology, Psychology and Law. You will gain skills and knowledge that are valued in apprenticeships and careers in the Criminal Justice System, the civil service, social work, probation, policing and victim support. It is a gateway to degree courses in Criminology, Sociology, Forensic Psychology and Forensic Investigation.
