Course Introduction

We aim to help students to consider the social implications of crime and criminality, including government policies and police initiatives, using empathy and informed judgement. Students will acquire academic skills such as independent research, report writing, analytical and evaluative skills. They will be expected to apply these skills to review the validity of theories and research evidence.

We aim to help students develop an objective and comprehensive vocabulary in order to discuss sensitive issues concisely and precisely in written reports and spoken debates. Practical skills include creativity, planning and organisation.

We hope to help students to develop an understanding of how theoretical concepts apply in the real world of the police investigation and courtroom by looking at real life examples and cases.

We will give students an insight into career options within the criminal justice, social and probation work and within the police force.

This is an Applied General qualification, designed primarily to support learners progressing to university or into higher level apprenticeships.

Course Content and Methodology

The WJEC Level 3 Applied Diploma in Criminology is equivalent to one A-level and consists of four mandatory units.

• Changing Awareness of Crime (internally assessed)
• Criminology Theories (externally assessed)
• Crime Scene to Courtroom (internally assessed)
• Crime and Punishment (externally assessed)

Assessment

Assessment will be through internally marked controlled assessments and external examinations. The weightings for assessment are 50% external, 50% internal. Students can achieve grades A – E on each unit. The final grade is an aggregate of all the unit grades to give an overall grade of A* - E.

Facilities