University of Liverpool

What you'll study

This programme introduces core areas of criminological theory and research while enabling you to specialise through optional modules. Core themes include the history and theory of crime, social inequalities and offending, the organisation and operation of criminal justice institutions, victimisation, and contemporary issues such as cybercrime, drugs and gendered patterns of harm.

Typical components include:

• Criminological theory — classic and contemporary explanations of crime and deviance.
• Research methods — quantitative and qualitative methods, research design, data analysis and ethical issues in criminological research.
• Criminal justice institutions — policing, courts, sentencing, prisons and community sanctions.
• Specialist topics — youth justice, victimology, cybercrime, drugs and organised crime, gender and crime.
• Independent project or dissertation — an extended piece of supervised research which develops advanced research and writing skills.
• Placement, fieldwork or study abroad — optional opportunities to gain practical experience with local agencies or international partners, depending on module choice.

Teaching is delivered through lectures, seminars, workshops and small-group supervision for research projects. Assessment typically combines essays, reports, presentations, examinations and a final-year dissertation or major project.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally require an undergraduate entry qualification such as UK A-levels, Scottish Highers, or an equivalent international qualification. Entry typically expects satisfactory achievement across three academic subjects, with specific grade expectations set by admissions. Mature applicants and those with relevant professional experience are encouraged to apply and will be considered on an individual basis.

Other admissions considerations include a personal statement outlining motivation and experience, references, and demonstrated ability to study at degree level. For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency is required where English is not the first language. Applicants should check specific qualification equivalencies and required subject combinations with the university admissions office.

Career prospects

Graduates from criminology programmes move into a broad range of careers across the public, private and voluntary sectors. Common graduate destinations include policing and law enforcement, probation and offender management, youth offending and social care services, victim support and advocacy, policy and government roles, and research posts in universities, think-tanks and non-governmental organisations.

Other options include working for charities and community-based projects, criminal justice administration, roles in the legal sector and forensic support services, or pursuing postgraduate study such as master's programmes or doctoral research in criminology, criminal justice or related social sciences. The degree develops transferable skills in research, critical analysis, communication and report writing valued by graduate employers.

Why study at University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool combines research-led teaching with opportunities for applied learning. Students benefit from a city-centre campus with access to specialist library resources and support services, a dedicated careers and employability service, and links with local criminal justice agencies that can support placements and fieldwork.

The university’s academic staff undertake active research in crime, justice and social policy, informing teaching and offering opportunities for students to engage in research projects. Small-group teaching and dissertation supervision help develop independent research skills, while optional practical modules and placement routes allow students to gain real-world experience and build professional networks in the sector.