Bachelor of Science (Hons) - CRIMINOLOGY
BNU offer a degree which examines crime from multiple perspectives to understand its impact on individuals and society. On this course you will explore the theories, policies, processes and relationships that influence attitudes, beliefs and behaviour.
You will also develop a range of research skills that enhance your employability, such as critical thinking and data interpretation, how to evaluate evidence and write reports, presenting reasoned arguments and making ethical judgements.
Why study this subject?
There are almost 80,000 people in prison in the UK and men are 22 times more likely to be in prison than women (gov.uk) But who commits crimes, why do they commit them, what is the impact, and how do we prevent them? Studying Criminology involves investigating all these questions and how they relate to wider society.
A degree in Criminology could lead to a career in the police, prison and probation services, the court or security services or with charities that work with young offenders. If you want to make a difference in this area, studying Criminology with equip you with the skills for a rewarding and successful career.
Why study at Buckinghamshire New University?
The eclectic programme team is committed to promoting a transformational learning experience with and for you, that facilitates the development of knowledge and understanding, skills, personal attributes and capability associated with employability and citizenship.
Throughout your time with BNU they’ll support you on the route to your chosen career. They will help you to develop crucial skills, encouraging you to become enterprising, employable and a good leader. BNU's modules and teaching will help you to become more independent as a learner and more certain of your discipline expertise.
The personal tutor system we operate helps us to support you and develop your professional identity and confidence. They also identify visits and trips to academic and criminal justice related events to complement your studies.
What facilities can you use?
BNU's library is packed with all the information you need for your assessments and there’s plenty of room to knuckle down for some quiet study.
What will you study?
BSc (Hons) Criminology is a subject that focuses on human theories and concepts. The programme emphasises the diversity and ambiguity of the ‘real world’ by drawing upon a variety of contexts in which both crime and social life are discussed.
Their modules are cutting edge and cover issues such as crime, criminals, criminal behaviour, corrections, human social behaviour, origins, organisation, institutions and development of human society. These issues are all discussed in a scientific framework that supports you through appropriate levels of study. Criminological theories are applied throughout the degree.
How will you be taught and assessed?
BNUs teaching team is research active across a range of areas related to Criminology. They deliver at a variety of conferences and work with outside agencies and bodies. They are also committed to high student satisfaction within a clear underpinning theoretical framework.
BNU use different teaching and assessment strategies together with, where relevant, input from outside speakers. They recently had some guest speakers come in to speak with our current students regarding career prospects.
Assessment methods will include:
- Case studies
- Essays
- Annotated bibliographies
- Evaluative summaries
- Examinations
- Dissertation.
What are your career prospects?
Throughout your time with Buckinghamshire New University they’ll support you on the route to your chosen career. They will help you to develop crucial skills, encouraging you to become enterprising, employable and good leaders. BNU will also help you find employment after graduation.
Their Criminology programme is a springboard for entry into probation; the course at BNU covers the requisite modules for this. Recent graduates have secured employment in:
- Probation
- National security
- The police force
- Cybercrime and prevention.
Graduates can also choose to study for a postgraduate course.

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