Social Science

Course summary

Criminology is a dynamic and exciting subject which brings together aspects of sociology, psychology, law and forensic science. Tapping into your curiosity and critical thinking skills, you will explore topics such as why people commit crime, policing, social control, punishment and the criminal justice system. The course supports you in becoming effective, engaged and employable, equipping you for the workplace, an apprenticeship or university. The course is equivalent to one A Level and can be studied alongside other A Level subjects or together with other vocational courses. In Year 12, students get to learn about different types of crimes, explanations for why people commit crime and how we deal with criminals. They also study real life examples of high profile crimes and learn about the media campaigns that arise from them, which aim to change the law. In Year 13, students look at what happens at the scene of a crime, the forensic and police investigation process, how cases are prepared for trial and what happens in the courtroom at a criminal trial. They also look at our current forms of punishments, such as prison sentences, and consider how effective these are for deterring criminals.