Our sociology and criminology degree takes an in-depth approach to society and crime by focusing on issues such as class, ethnicity, identity, gender and inequality.
Through this course in sociology and criminology, you'll explore how social structures and institutions shape the individual and society. You'll gain an understanding of crime and violence, crime policy and the relationship between social status and access to justice and rights.
The course also explores how we define crime, how society deals with crime, and how the distinction between crime and deviance changes over time.
Popular careers for our sociology and criminology graduates include criminal justice, public policy, education, youth work, social services, community work and policing
How you will learn
The following data is based on the compulsory modules for this programme.*
* Compiled from modules taught on 2023-2024 courses.
Teaching
In a typical week learning takes place through a combination of:
Overall123You can view more information about how each module is taught within our 'What you will study' section.
Seminars and workshops enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures in smaller groups. You will also be able to meet your personal tutor. Timetabled learning may fall between 9am and 9pm depending on your courses and tutorials.
Class sizes
All students on a module attend lectures. You can expect to see approximately 50-70 students in a lecture. Seminar groups are much smaller, with roughly 20-30 students.
Independent learning
Outside of timetabled sessions, you'll need to dedicate self-study time (around 20-30 hours per week) to prepare for coursework, presentations and exams.
You can use Stockwell Street library and online resources to support further reading and research.
In addition, during the week you can also:
- Attend additional support classes in some modules
- Attend guest lectures from industry experts
- Take part in employability and enterprise workshops
- Join student societies.
Overall workload
If you are studying full-time, you should expect the workload to be similar to a full-time job. For part-time students, this will reduce in proportion with the number of courses you are studying.
Each module you study towards this degree is worth 15 or 30 credits. These represent around 150 or 300 study hours respectively. If you receive 72 contact hours for a 30-credit module, you should expect to commit 228 hours to independent study to complete it successfully.
Assessment
Students are assessed through a combination of assessment methods depending on the modules chosen.
Overall123You can view how each module is assessed within our 'What you will study' section.
Each course has formal assessments which count towards your grade. Some courses may also include 'practice' assignments, which help you monitor progress and do not count towards your final grade.
Feedback summary
We aim to give feedback on assignments within 15 working days.
Dates and timetables
The academic year runs from September to June.
Full teaching timetables are not usually available until term has started. For any queries, please call 020 8331 9000.

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