Open University has participated in the Teaching Excellence Framework. These ratings were awarded in 2023, for four years.
Course summary
Our honours degree programme in criminology focuses on cutting-edge, topical and often contentious issues related to crime and justice. You'll learn to apply research tools, and access and evaluate qualitative and quantitative data on crime, victimisation and the societal responses to them. With an appreciation of criminological theorising and evidence, you will develop the skills to understand issues of crime and victimisation from new perspectives. You will also develop a critical appreciation of the problems with conventional responses to crime and deviance. Key features of the course
- Explore contentious issues of crime, harm and criminal justice.
- Evaluate claims made about crime, perpetrators, victims and criminal justice.
- Learn to critically evaluate evidence to better understand criminological problems.
- Examine the role of both theory and research in shaping knowledge about crime and justice.
- Explore criminological topics of your own interest in depth in the final year of study.
Modules
This degree has three stages. In Stage 1, you’ll begin with a broad introduction to social sciences thinking and how a variety of disciplines have informed the study of crime. You'll also be introduced to key concepts and theoretical approaches to understanding crime, criminal justice, harm and victimisation. These modules will provide important underpinnings for your studies at Stage 2. In Stage 2, you’ll develop your knowledge and understanding of criminological theories, focusing on how these theories can help you understand, interpret and reinterpret the social world in new and exciting ways. You’ll also learn about the strengths and limitations of different research methods in generating evidence about criminological topics. Both modules provide valuable foundations for your studies at Stage 3. In Stage 3, you’ll explore some of the fundamental distinctions between crime and social harm. With a particular focus on the state's role, you’ll scrutinise why certain behaviours come to be defined as ‘criminal’ while others do not. Applying what you have learnt throughout the qualification, you’ll also have the opportunity to conduct an independent study on a criminological topic of your choosing.
Assessment method
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas: Knowledge and understanding; Cognitive skills; Practical and professional skills; Key skills. The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; e-learning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
How to apply
To apply for this course you will be taken to the provider's website, where you can find out more information and make an application.
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
There are no qualification requirements for this course.
Applicants must be aged 18 and over; there are no formal entry requirements to study this qualification.
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
No fee information has been provided for this course
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
2026/2027 academic year fees are not yet available.
Provider information
Open University
Student Recruitment Team
PO Box 197
Milton Keynes
MK7 6BJ