Start your future in criminology

Explore crime, justice and society

Criminology goes beyond the study of crime. It examines the social harms, inequalities and power structures that shape justice, exploring how laws are created, enforced and experienced by different communities.

Choose our core criminology degree, combine criminology with psychology, or take a foundation year route offering additional preparation for degree-level study. Across our courses, you will connect theory with contemporary issues through applied projects, simulations, workshops and expert-led teaching.

With no written exams, you will develop valuable research, analytical and communication skills for careers across criminal justice, policy, community work and related fields. Eligible UK full-time undergraduate students can also receive up to £6,000 financial support while they study

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Applications for our psychology degrees starting in September 2026 are open. You can apply to us today.

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£6k Cost of Living Allowance

At University College Birmingham, we believe the cost of living shouldn’t hold you back from achieving your goals. That’s why we’re providing UK full-time undergraduate students starting in September 2026 with £6,000 each to support expenses like food, bills, and transport - completely free, with no need to pay it back.

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Explore our criminology degrees

Choose from criminology, criminology with psychology or a foundation year route. Our standalone Criminology BA (Hons) is also a 2 day degree, with teaching on 2 consecutive days each week. Explore the courses below and apply on the relevant course page.

Criminology BA (Hons)

This degree challenges traditional thinking by exploring the deeper social, political and cultural forces that drive crime and justice.

Criminology with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

This degree course with foundation year provides a supportive introduction to university study. You will develop essential academic skills while beg…

Criminology with Psychology BA (Hons)

Often wonder why people think, feel and behave the way they do? If so, this degree with its contemporary curriculum and diverse application of psycholog…

Designed to change the way criminology is taught, this programme aims to connect theory to the real world. Drawing on our industry experience, we understand how graduates can have the greatest impact and help you develop the skills needed to deliver meaningful change.

Scott Banks Senior lecturer in criminology

Why study criminology at UCB?

Up to £6,000 financial support available for eligible UK full-time undergraduate students
No written exams – demonstrate your knowledge through coursework, applied projects and practical activities
Expert teaching – learn from experienced criminologists, psychologists and lecturers with professional backgrounds including policing
Real-world learning – explore contemporary issues through simulations, workshops, fieldwork, guest lectures and research projects
Flexible course options – choose criminology, criminology with psychology or a foundation year route
2 day degree available – study the standalone Criminology BA (Hons) on campus for 2 consecutive days each week

Community and support

Our diverse and inclusive community will help you build friendships, discover new interests and make the most of university life.

You'll also have access to award-winning support throughout your studies, from academic skills and careers guidance to health, wellbeing and disability support. Whatever your goals, we're here to help you succeed.

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Visit our next Open Day to explore our campus, facilities and accommodation, meet lecturers and current students, and discover what it's like to study at University College Birmingham.

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