Course summary

BSc (Hons) Criminology and Sociology offers the exciting opportunity to combine the study of two cutting-edge disciplines. The course is aimed at students who are interested in both disciplines and want to study crime and its causes, patterns, consequences, and responses by situating them in the wider context of society. The first year introduces students to the building blocks of criminology and sociology: key sociological and criminological theories, social divisions and problems, the criminal justice system, crime policy and practice, and key social transformations such as digital culture. Students will receive training in a wide range of research methods during the first two years, to become equipped to undertake their own independent research project in the final year. Our large, multi-disciplinary department believes in offering extensive optionality to study specific areas of criminology and sociology in-depth. Throughout the degree, there is an emphasis on developing skills and experiences that are relevant to professional careers, including work experience, study-abroad schemes, and independent project work. In your final year of study, you will have the opportunity remain on BSc (Hons) Criminology and Sociology or to specialise by choosing a pathway and graduating with an exit award in one of these areas:

• Justice Studies

• Quantitative Methods

• Global Youth Justice

• Each year offers increasing levels of flexibility with a broad range of option modules, so you can choose to focus on areas that interest you.

• We are the top modern university for the power of our research in sociology.

• Get practical knowledge and experience with a range of volunteering and research opportunities in the residential and professional communities of Greater Manchester.

• We’re one of only 18 universities in the UK taking part in a £20 million scheme to develop and deliver new programmes that equip graduates with quantitative analysis skills.

• You will be taught by staff who are experts in their fields and use their research expertise and publications to inform cutting-edge teaching.

• You will be part of a vibrant academic community which critically debates live social issues that matter to people in Manchester and beyond - these range widely, from drugs and music, to austerity and Hillsborough.

• You will study and learn inside and outside the classroom, for example through visits, field trips, or study exchanges.

• The Department of Sociology is home to a number of research centres including The Manchester Centre for Youth Studies which has a particular focus on youth justice, Crime and Wellbeing Big Data Centre which explores issues of crime, policing, and health and well being and the Policy Evaluation and Research Unit which advises government departments and local delivery organisations including police forces, probation services and more, and DPSC (Drugs, Policy and Social Change).

• You could choose to take the four-year route, spending a year in industry or studying abroad.