Criminology and Criminal Psychology PG Dip

Criminology has changed a lot over the past 200 years, and modern policing and justice systems must deal with ever-changing challenges and opportunities. The improvement of forensic psychology methods and appearance of new types of crime mean that a thorough understanding of criminological theory has never been more essential.

Throughout your course you will examine a range of perspectives on race, gender, sex and class in the criminal justice system, and explore offences such as violent crime, sexual crimes and firesetting. Topics you'll study include:

  • the sociological approach to crime, criminology and criminological theory
  • the role of forensic psychology in manging mentally disordered offenders
  • the status of the victim throughout the criminal process
  • the historic relationship between psychology and policing, and what this means for modern policing
  • critical assessment of complex criminal investigations in accordance with national standards.

Throughout the course you will develop your skills in critical evaluation, decision-making and prioritisation. Towards the end of your studies you will have the opportunity to advance onto a full MSc.

PG Dip Award
January, April, July, October Start
Part-time, Distance, Online Study Mode
16 months Duration

Entry Requirements For This Course

We know that many people from non-traditional backgrounds would succeed on our courses! That's why we offer two different entry routes, taking into account your prior work experience and relevant qualifications. You will also need to meet our English Language Requirements.

Additionally, you will need to pass your first assignment set within your two-week induction period of the course in order to continue with your studies.

Academic entry route

In order to satisfy the academic entry route requirements for our PG Dip Criminology and Criminal Psychology, you must have the following qualifications as a minimum:

  • an undergraduate degree from an approved institution, equivalent to a UK Honours degree, or a relevant professional qualification

Work experience entry route

In order to satisfy the work experience entry route requirements for our PG Dip Criminology and Criminal Psychology, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Have at least three years’ relevant work experience.

English language requirements

As our courses are delivered in English, a high proficiency with English is required. If English is not your first language, your English ability should be equivalent to an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0. Don't worry if you don't hold an IELTS or equivalent qualification - we offer a free online English test to assess your proficiency.

You don't need to prove your English ability if you are a national of, or have completed a qualification equivalent to a UK degree in, any of these countries.

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