Higher Education

BA (Hons) Crime, Criminology and Criminal Justice

Unravel the causes of crime and the responses that shape our justice system.

Our BA (Hons) Crime, Criminology and Criminal Justice (CCCJ) aims to answer the key questions surrounding the motivations behind people who commit crimes and how the criminal justice system responds to them. You’ll explore critical concepts such as the psychology of crime, the nature and impacts of crime on society and how crime can be prevented.

The course, validated by the University of Suffolk, draws from a broad range of disciplines such as Criminology, Sociology, Psychology, Law, and Social Policy in order to actively encourage the development of strong analytical and reasoning skills. You will engage with academic literature and debates, critically evaluating research and evidence throughout your studies.

Course pathway options

Certificate of Higher Education in CCCJ (Cert HE)

Course duration: 54 weeks

Level of study: Level 4

Credits: 120

BA in Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice (CCCJ)

Course duration: 138 weeks

Level of study: Level 4, 5 & 6

Credits: 300

Diploma of Higher Education
in CCCJ

Course duration: 108 weeks

Level of study: Level 4 & 5

Credits: 240

BA (Hons) in Crime, Criminology & Criminal Justice (CCCJ)

Course duration: 168 weeks

Level of study: Level 4, 5 & 6

Credits: 360

Next cohort: February 2025

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What will I study?

This course provides a thorough exploration of criminology and criminal justice, combining theoretical foundations with practical application. You’ll examine the nature of crime, the factors influencing criminal behaviour, and the structures of the criminal justice system.

As you progress, you’ll engage with topics such as crime prevention, policing, sentencing, and rehabilitation, alongside a critical examination of issues like social justice, diversity, and the complexities of the legal system. The course equips you with the knowledge and skills to understand criminal behaviour, research crime, and develop effective responses within the criminal justice system, all while addressing contemporary debates in crime and justice.

With our higher education pathways, what you'll study will depend on the qualification you choose. If you choose to complete your Certificate of Higher Education, you'll study the topics covered in Level 4. If you enrol for the full BA (Hons) in Criminology, you will study all modules through to Level 6.

Course modules

Level 4

Introduction to Criminology

Studying crime, criminology and criminal justice
Defining crime & criminality
Models of criminal behaviour
Crime, prevention & community safety

Introduction to the Criminal Justice System

History of crime and punishment
The Criminal Justice System: an overview
English Legal System
Cybercrime and policing the internet
Measurement of crime
Psychology of crime

Level 5

Criminal Behaviours

Crimes of the rich and powerful
Researching crime
Gender, crime and justice
Criminologies of the Right and Left
Serial Killers
Social construction of Guilt and Innocence

Criminal Justice in Practice

Policing and society
Youth offending and youth justice
Prisons and prison policy
Volunteering in criminal justice
Non-custodial responses to crime
Diversity issues in criminal justice

Effective Practice in Youth Justice

Why young people offend
Working effectively
Assessment and planning interventions
Engagement and participation
Custody and resettlement
Desistance

Level 6

Contemporary Issues and Debates in Criminal Justice (optional blocks)

Transnational crime
Drugs and society
Covert research in theory and practice
Victims of crime
Hate crime
Terrorism - past & present
Policing protest
Tackling recidivism and promoting resistance

Independent Research Project (BA Hons only)

Entry requirements?

We are firmly committed to a policy of open learning and there are no specific academic requirements for this course.

We encourage applications from students of all ages and backgrounds.

When will I study?

Upcoming cohorts: February 2025, September 2025.

What career progression opportunities does this course offer me?

Graduating with a BA (Hons) in Crime, Criminology, and Criminal Justice equips students with a strong foundation for a fulfilling career in various sectors. This degree opens up numerous career opportunities in criminal justice, sociology, and related fields, including:

Police Service
Prison and Probation Services
Youth Justice Service
Social Services
Drug and Alcohol Services
Crime and Data Analysis
Policy Advisor
Victim Support
Security and Intelligence
UK Border Force

Whether you aim to work directly in criminal justice or focus on policy development, social services, or data analysis, this degree provides the critical skills needed to make a significant impact.

How do our higher education pathways work?

Our flexible degree pathway allows you to work towards a full BA (Hons) degree at your own pace by earning credits one module at a time. Each module is worth 60 credits, with a total of 360 credits required to achieve a BA (Hons).

As you progress, you’ll gain standalone, recognised qualifications, starting with a Certificate of Higher Education (120 credits), advancing to a Foundation Degree or Diploma of Higher Education (240 credits), and ultimately completing the BA (Hons).

At every level, you have the flexibility to pause your studies and graduate with an accredited qualification, or you can continue adding modules to reach your desired degree level. In your final year, you’ll undertake an Independent Research Project, showcasing your skills and expertise in your chosen field.

What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

Many of our courses and modules are designed to count towards recognition of prior learning (RPL). This means that if you have previously studied a course with us, there is a likely chance that it may contribute as credit toward another - for example, if you choose to study only our Certificate of Higher Education but decide a year later* you want the full BA (Hons), this prior learning will be recognised and it won't be necessary to study these modules in order to progress further. You'll essentially be 'one step ahead'.

*this RPL must have been awarded within a five-year period

Learning and assessment

The BA (Hons) in Crime, Criminology and Criminal Justice is designed with flexibility and accessibility in mind, making it ideal for working professionals. You’ll engage with a variety of online learning materials, including videos, case studies, and reading resources, allowing you to tailor your studies around your commitments and progress at your own pace.

Delivered entirely online by Unitas, a leading distance learning provider, this course enables you to access your studies from anywhere - whether on your computer or mobile device - offering the ultimate convenience of balancing education with a busy schedule.

Will I receive support throughout my studies?

Each student is allocated a dedicated Learning Coach to guide them throughout their studies, providing academic support and feedback.

They will:

✓ Provide advice and guidance on course content and on the best ways for you to study

✓ Help you to plan and prepare for assignments

✓ Mark and provide detailed, constructive feedback on your assignments

If you ever need practical and technical assistance or other advice during your course, then our Student Support Coordinators are on hand to help.

How will I be assessed?

Each block of study regularly assesses students' knowledge and understanding through a selection of reflective questions as they read through the course materials. Other forms of assessment include:

End-of-unit quizzes
Weekly tests

To complete the course and achieve the certificate of study, students will be assessed through:

Computer Marked Assignments (CMAs) which take place at the end of each block. These are online, multiple-choice tests based on what has been learnt so far.
Tutor Marked Assignments (TMAs) which are written pieces of work such as essays, reports, briefing papers and reviews. These will allow students to demonstrate a deeper understanding of the topics covered.

How much does this course cost?

Our mission is to provide accessible, affordable learning that is within reach for everyone. Because of this, our courses are priced considerably lower than most learning providers and universities in the UK. With a total fee of just £7,200 for the entire BA (Hons), you can benefit from quality higher education without the financial strain.

Certificate of Higher Education: £2,400*

Diploma of Higher Education: £4,800*

BA: £6,000*

BA (Hons): £7,200*

*Price increases will be implemented 01/02/2025.

How can I fund my studies?

There are a number of payment options when it comes to funding your studies* (contact our student support team on 01603 570 365 to discuss these further).

Interest-free payment plan (self-funded)
Pay in full (self-funded)
Employer sponsorship

*For all self-funding students, a deposit will be due before the course begins.

Ready to start your journey with Unitas?