Criminology A Level

Course Code
Criminology
Course Type
Course Duration
2 years
Location
Cadbury College
Start Date
1 September, 2025
Student smiling at the front of the room

Criminology A Level blends psychology, sociology, and law to help you understand the causes of crime, the workings of the justice system, and the impact crime has on individuals and society.

This is a Level 3 Diploma (equivalent to one A Level).

Are you fascinated by the criminal mind? Curious about why people commit crimes — and how society responds to them? If you’re thinking about a future in law, criminology, or the criminal justice system, this Criminology A Level course is the perfect starting point.

Modules – A Level Criminology:

  • Unit 1 – Changing Awareness of Crime – the foundation of criminology looking at the different types of crime, the crime and media, the statistics of crime and different campaigns of change
  • Unit 2 – Criminological Theories – exploration of why people commit crime, is it nature or is it nurture? Are people born to commit crime or is it society who creates criminals?
  • Unit 3 – Crime Scene to Court Room – looking in depth at the process between a crime being committed and a person appearing in a court of law. We explore who is involved, what their role is and the effectiveness of them within that role.
  • Unit 4 – Crime and Punishment – following on from a person appearing in court, what punishments are available and how involved are the different criminal justice agencies with achieving social control.

To study an A Level students are required to achieve a minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, with at least two at a grade 6. For A Level Criminology, you will also need to achieve a grade 6 in a humanities-based subject.

At Cadbury College, we believe education goes beyond the classroom. Our diverse and inclusive enrichment programme offers a wide range of activities designed to help you explore your interests, build confidence, and develop valuable skills for university and the workplace.

From creative and academic clubs to sports, volunteering, and leadership opportunities, there’s something for everyone. Highlights include:

  • High Achievers Programme – Support for high-achieving students applying to top universities.

  • Envision – A chance to develop employability skills by tackling real-life social issues.

  • Duke of Edinburgh Award – Take on the challenge of the prestigious Silver or Gold Award.

  • Medicine Society – Specialist guidance for aspiring medical students, in partnership with local universities.

  • Five-a-Side Football or Basketball – Join Cadbury’s own league and enjoy competitive, inclusive football or basketball with friends.

  • Bar Mock Trial – Step into the courtroom and compete nationally in this programme for future legal professionals.

Whatever your passion, enrichment at Cadbury College gives you the chance to grow, connect, and make the most of your time here.

A Level Criminology is assessed through:

  • Unit 1 and 3 are assessed by an 8-hour controlled assessment in December and February
  • Unit 2 and 4 are assessed by a 90-minute external examination in May and June

The Criminology A Level course is designed primarily to support learners progressing to university. Alternatively, students can consider employment within some aspects of the criminal justice system with jobs such as:

  • Police Officer
  • Detective
  • Crime Scene Investigator/Technician
  • Immigration Officer/Border Force Officer
  • Intelligence Analyst
  • Correctional Officer
  • Probation Officer
  • Prison Officer
  • Social Worker
  • Youth Worker
  • Community Development Worker

Course Details

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Apply for this course or find out more

Cadbury College boasts best in class facilities and exceptional teaching standards.

Alongside delivering outstanding pass rates, the College is proud to offer unrivalled mental health services and welfare support, ensuring that every student has access to the advice and guidance they need.

FAQs

A Level Criminology combines elements of psychology, sociology, and law to help you understand why crime happens, how the criminal justice system works, and how society responds to crime. The course is ideal for students interested in crime, justice, policing, and social issues.

You’ll study four main units – Changing Awareness of Crime, Criminological Theories, Crime Scene to Courtroom, and Crime and Punishment. These units combine theory with real-life case studies and current criminal justice issues.

Assessment is split between controlled assessments and external exams. Units 1 and 3 are assessed through controlled assessment. Units 2 and 4 are assessed through written examinations. This provides a balance of coursework-style assessment and exams.

Criminology A Level can help prepare you for careers such as police officer, detective, crime scene investigator, intelligence analyst, probation officer, prison officer, immigration or border force officer, social worker, youth worker. It also provides an excellent foundation for careers across the criminal justice system.

Yes. Criminology carries UCAS points and is widely accepted by universities. Students often progress to degrees in criminology, law, psychology, sociology, criminal justice, policing, and social work. Always check the entry requirements for your chosen university course.

Absolutely. Criminology complements subjects such as psychology, law, sociology, politics, and history. These combinations are particularly useful for students considering careers in law enforcement, legal services, or the social sciences.

No. Most students study A Level Criminology for the first time at college. An interest in crime, justice, current affairs, and society is much more important than previous knowledge of the subject.

Throughout the course you’ll develop valuable skills including critical thinking, research and investigation, evaluating evidence, essay writing, analytical thinking and communication and debate. These transferable skills are valued by universities and employers across many industries.

To study A Level Criminology, you’ll normally need at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, at least two GCSEs at grade 6 and a grade 6 in a humanities-based subject. Please check the latest course information or speak to our admissions team for full entry requirements.

At Cadbury College, you’ll benefit from experienced and supportive tutors, a qualification equivalent to one A Level, a balance of controlled assessments and exams, enrichment opportunities and clear progression routes into university and careers. Whether you’re considering a future in policing, law, psychology, or social sciences, A Level Criminology provides an engaging introduction to the world of crime and justice.

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