Course summary

BA (Hons) Criminology and Sociology offers the exciting opportunity to combine the study of two cutting-edge disciplines in the vibrant city of Manchester. 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 students extensive optionality to study specific areas of both sociology and criminology 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 you have the option of moving onto the BSc route, which means you will receive extensive quantitative methods training and graduate with a BSc. You may also have the opportunity to spend an extra year expanding your horizons studying with one of our partner universities overseas.* This course has a foundation year available. *Placement and/or study abroad options may be available, potentially extending the duration of study up to 4 years. Study abroad will be subject to any international travel restrictions and/or availability. Features and Benefits

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

• 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.

• You may have the opportunity to take the four-year route, spending a year studying abroad.