MA Migration Studies
The MA in Migration and Refugee Studies at Sussex is a one-year full-time or two-year p...
BA (Hons) Criminology
Falmer
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Criminology at the University of Sussex is a highly regarded program that explores the complexities of crime, justice, and social regulation within contemporary society. This degree offers a critical examination of the causes of criminal behavior, the functioning of the criminal justice system, and broader social responses to crime and deviance. With a focus on real-world relevance and critical analysis, the program equips students with a deep understanding of crime in local, national, and global contexts. Studying criminology at Sussex means learning from experts who are actively shaping public debates and influencing policy, making it an ideal choice for students passionate about justice, social change, and public policy.
Curriculum: The BA (Hons) Criminology curriculum is carefully designed to provide a balance of foundational knowledge and specialized expertise. In the first year, students explore core areas such as criminological theory, the structure of the criminal justice system, and the sociology of crime and deviance. As they advance, students can choose from a wide range of optional modules covering topics like youth justice, cybercrime, terrorism, policing, punishment, prisons, gender and crime, and restorative justice. Research methods and ethics are integral to the program, culminating in an independent dissertation or project in the final year. The degree places a strong emphasis on critical thinking, problem-solving, and practical application, preparing students for diverse professional environments.
Research Focus: Research excellence is at the heart of criminology at Sussex. The university is internationally recognized for its innovative research in areas such as critical criminology, human rights and justice, surveillance and technology, migration and crime, and environmental crime. Faculty members actively engage with contemporary global challenges and contribute to high-impact research that informs policy and public debate. Students are encouraged to engage with this vibrant research culture through research-led teaching, project work, and dissertation supervision. This strong research focus ensures that students are not only consumers of knowledge but also contributors to new ideas and solutions in the field of criminology.
Industry Engagement: The University of Sussex prioritizes industry engagement throughout the BA (Hons) Criminology program. Students benefit from strong links with organizations across the criminal justice sector, including police forces, probation services, youth offending teams, charities, and NGOs. Work placements, guest lectures from practitioners, workshops, and networking events provide invaluable insights into the realities of working within the justice system. The program’s focus on employability ensures that students graduate with practical skills, professional contacts, and real-world experience, making them competitive candidates for careers in public service, social justice, and criminal justice agencies.
Global Perspective: The criminology program at Sussex is underpinned by a strong global and comparative perspective. Students explore how crime and justice are conceptualized and managed across different societies and cultures. Modules on global crime, international human rights, migration, and transnational policing encourage students to think critically about global inequalities and international responses to crime. The diverse student community and international study opportunities further enhance students' understanding of criminology in a globalized world, preparing them for careers that require a nuanced appreciation of cross-border justice issues and multicultural engagement.
Location
Falmer
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 19050
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 80% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Sussex offers a range of scholarships and financial support for international students to help make studying in the UK more accessible. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, support for underrepresented groups, and the ambition to help students thrive in their studies.
Sussex International Scholarships: The University offers a range of scholarships specifically for international students, including the Sussex Excellence Scholarships.These awards typically cover a portion of the tuition fees and are available for students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Specific Country Scholarships: The University also offers country-specific scholarships for students from particular regions, such as Africa, India, and China.These awards are often designed to make studying at Sussex more accessible for students from those regions.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Criminology have a diverse range of career options across the public, private, and voluntary sectors. The program equips students with strong research, analytical, and communication skills, making them well-suited for roles that involve understanding and addressing crime-related issues.
Police Officer or Detective: Many criminology graduates choose to enter law enforcement. With an understanding of crime, criminal behavior, and investigative techniques, they may work as police officers, detectives, or intelligence analysts. These roles involve investigating crimes, gathering evidence, and supporting criminal justice processes.
Probation Officer: Criminology graduates can work as probation officers, supporting individuals who are released from prison or involved in the criminal justice system. They help supervise offenders, support rehabilitation, and contribute to reducing reoffending rates. Probation officers play a critical role in managing the reintegration of offenders into society.
Criminal Justice Policy Analyst: With expertise in criminology, graduates can work as policy analysts, contributing to the development and analysis of criminal justice policies. These roles involve evaluating the effectiveness of laws and policies related to crime, sentencing, rehabilitation, and prevention, helping to inform government decisions.
Victim Support Worker: Criminology graduates may also work in roles that support victims of crime. Victim support workers provide emotional and practical assistance to individuals affected by crime, helping them navigate the criminal justice system and access resources for recovery and justice.
Social Work or Youth Offender Worker: Many criminology graduates pursue careers in social work, working with vulnerable populations, including youth offenders, individuals in care, or those at risk of criminal behavior. They may provide counseling, support, and intervention to help individuals improve their lives and reduce the likelihood of reoffending.
Crime Prevention Specialist: Graduates can work in roles aimed at preventing crime within communities. This can include working with local authorities, housing associations, or nonprofits to design and implement strategies that address the root causes of crime, such as poverty, lack of education, and social exclusion.
Researcher in Criminology or Criminal Justice: Some criminology graduates opt for careers in research, working for universities, think tanks, or government agencies. These roles involve conducting research into crime trends, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system to inform policy, law enforcement practices, and societal responses to crime.
Forensic Psychologist: Graduates with an interest in psychology may pursue a career as forensic psychologists, applying psychological theories and techniques to understand criminal behavior. These professionals assess offenders, provide expert testimony in court, and work in rehabilitation programs.
Security Management: Some criminology graduates pursue careers in private security or risk management, where they use their knowledge of criminal behavior to develop strategies to protect businesses, assets, and individuals. Roles in this area include security consultant, risk manager, and security operations manager.
Legal and Advocacy Roles: Criminology graduates can work in legal professions such as paralegal, legal assistant, or in advocacy roles for human rights or criminal justice reform organizations. These positions involve supporting the legal process and advocating for fairer justice systems.
Academia and Teaching: For those with a passion for education, criminology graduates may choose to become lecturers or educators, teaching criminology or related subjects at schools, colleges, or universities. They may also engage in academic research and publish studies that contribute to the field of criminology.
