Criminology and Criminal Justice, BSc (Hons)

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Course Overview

Our undergraduate BSC in Criminology and Criminal Justice offers an exciting opportunity to explore the complex factors that shape criminal behaviour, the decisions that define certain acts as criminal, and the ways society responds to deviance and harm.

You will engage with key criminological theories and apply them to real-world, contemporary issues such as gender and crime, terrorism and extremism, state crime,  race and racism, environmental harms, cybercrime, and more. This critical approach will help you understand how theory connects to lived experiences and global challenges.

Alongside this, you’ll examine the role of the criminal justice system and the agencies responsible for preventing and responding to crime. You’ll explore the structures and practices of justice in England and Wales, and assess the challenges these institutions face in a rapidly changing society.

Throughout the programme, you’ll develop a range of transferable skills essential for the workplace - including research, analysis, communication, and ethical reasoning. This degree will prepare you to think critically, act ethically, and make a meaningful impact in the field of criminology and beyond.

Why Criminology and Criminal Justice at Swansea?

Based within the School of Social Sciences, you will be part of a vibrant and diverse academic community, renowned for its excellence in both research and teaching. Our Criminology lecturers are actively engaged in cutting-edge research and will ensure you stay informed about the latest developments in the field.

Criminology at Swansea is ranked:

  • 13th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2026)
  • 5th in the UK for Graduate Prospects (Times Good Uni Guide 2026)

Your Criminology and Criminal Justice Experience

Our degree structure strikes a balance between providing access to the core areas of Criminology and Criminal Justice, and offers the ability to tailor your studies to your individual interests, career aspirations, or plans for postgraduate study.

This programme includes opportunities to undertake a Semester or Year Abroad, spent in locations such as the USA, Canada, China, Hong Kong, or Singapore, enhancing your learning and offering invaluable life experience.

This course also offers you the opportunity to spend a Year in Industry, in the UK or overseas, enabling you to gain valuable workplace experience. The University advocates for paid-only placements, which on average have a salary of over £20,000. Unpaid placements are considered on a case-by-case basis.

Criminology and Criminal Justice Employment Opportunities

Studying a BSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Swansea University can lead to a range of careers. Our graduates go on to a wide variety of occupations, which include working in:

  • Community Development
  • Criminal Justice
  • Local Government
  • Police Force
  • Prison Service
  • Probation Service
  • Social Work
  • Education
  • UK Government
  • Victim Support
  • NGO’s and Voluntary Organisations
  • And Postgraduate Study

Graduates are well-equipped in critical thinking, ethical reasoning, effective communication, and leadership - we ensure you are well-prepared to contribute meaningfully across diverse professional environments.

Modules

We're currently reviewing our curriculum to enhance your learning experience and embed skills that will benefit your future career. This means that some modules may be subject to change.

Entry Requirements

We consider all applicants on their own merits and welcome applications from students with a wide range of qualifications.

Criminology and Criminal Justice, BSc (Hons)

Criminology and Criminal Justice with a Year Abroad, BSc (Hons)

Criminology and Criminal Justice with a Year in Industry, BSc (Hons)