University of York

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary degree integrates sociology and criminology across three years of study. You will study foundational sociological theory and research methods alongside modules that address crime, deviance and the organisations and practices that respond to offending.

• Core topics: classical and contemporary sociological theory, social inequality, culture and identity, and the sociology of institutions.
• Criminology topics: theories of crime and deviance, policing and security, punishment and prisons, youth justice, victims, restorative justice and comparative/global perspectives on crime.
• Research training: qualitative and quantitative methods, research design, data analysis and ethics, preparing you to design and carry out independent research projects.
• Final-year dissertation: a substantial independent project supervised by academic staff, allowing you to investigate a topic in depth.
• Optional modules and skills: modules often cover cybercrime, drugs and society, migration and crime, law and society, community justice and policy evaluation; transferable skills include critical analysis, report writing, data handling and presentation.

The programme is usually structured so that you take introductory and mandatory modules early on, progress to specialised options in the middle years, and complete a research-led dissertation in the final year. There are often opportunities to take inter‑departmental modules, and options for placements or study abroad can be available through the university.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have strong academic qualifications at secondary level. Admissions tutors typically look for a combination of relevant subjects and evidence of ability to engage with social science concepts and independent study. Typical offers reflect competitive entry standards for undergraduate study at the University of York.

• Subject background: A-levels or equivalent with preference for social science or humanities subjects, although students from a wide range of backgrounds are welcomed.
• Skills and experience: evidence of analytical reading, essay writing and some quantitative literacy is helpful. Relevant voluntary or work experience in community, youth or criminal justice settings can strengthen an application but is not essential.
• Mature and international applicants: are considered on the basis of equivalent qualifications, work experience and personal statement.
• English language: applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a wide range of careers in the public, private and third sectors. The degree provides both subject knowledge and practical research skills valued by employers.

• Careers in criminal justice and policing, probation, youth offending services and victim support organisations.
• Policy, advocacy and research roles in central and local government, think‑tanks and NGOs focused on crime, social policy or community safety.
• Professional roles in social research, market research, data analysis and evaluation for public bodies and private consultancies.
• Further study and academic careers through postgraduate degrees in criminology, sociology, social policy, law or research methods.
• Other sectors such as human resources, community development, education, and media where skills in critical thinking, communication and evidence appraisal are needed.

Why study at University of York

The University of York has a strong reputation for social science research and a research-active sociology community, with academics working on crime, justice and social inequalities. Students benefit from research-led teaching, small-group seminars and access to supervision for independent research projects.

• Interdisciplinary links: close connections with law, social policy and public health mean you can draw on wider expertise and take complementary modules.
• Research and facilities: opportunities to engage with ongoing research projects, access to methodological training and support from experienced supervisors.
• Student support and employability: the university offers careers guidance, help with placements and opportunities to develop practical skills valued by employers in the criminal justice and social policy sectors.