MBA Masters of Business Administration
The MBA in Leadership at Bath Spa University is structured to provide a comprehensive u...
BSc (Hons) Criminology and Law
Newton Park
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BSc (Hons) Criminology and Law program at Bath Spa University is a three-year, full-time course providing a stimulating and intellectually engaging learning experience. It is structured to progressively build foundational knowledge in both criminology and law in the first year, explore core criminological theories and fundamental legal principles in the second, and culminate in specialized studies at the intersection of criminology and law, along with an interdisciplinary research project in the final year. Students benefit from interactive lectures, engaging seminars incorporating legal case studies and criminological analysis, opportunities for applying legal and criminological frameworks to contemporary issues, and collaborative group work. A key element involves fostering a critical understanding of how legal frameworks shape the definition and control of crime, and how social and criminological factors influence the development and application of law. The program encourages students to develop their analytical skills and to approach the study of crime and justice with both legal and social scientific perspectives.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BSc (Hons) Criminology and Law program is designed to provide a comprehensive and integrated understanding of the core areas of both disciplines. Core modules typically cover criminological theory, the sociology of crime and deviance, English legal systems and legal skills, criminal law, and research methods. As students progress, they often have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as criminal justice processes, human rights law, international criminal law, youth justice, and forensic criminology through elective modules. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, legal reasoning, research methodologies relevant to both social science and law, and ethical considerations in both criminological research and legal practice. Students will engage in case study analysis from both legal and criminological perspectives, participate in debates on contemporary legal and criminological issues, and undertake interdisciplinary projects that require them to integrate knowledge from both fields. The final year often includes advanced seminars on current legal and criminological debates and a significant interdisciplinary research project or dissertation.
Research Focus: The BSc (Hons) Criminology and Law program at Bath Spa University benefits from a research-informed learning environment within the School of Humanities and Cultural Industries and the Faculty of Business and Law. Faculty members in both disciplines are actively engaged in research related to areas such as criminal justice policy, socio-legal studies, human rights law, youth crime, and the social and legal dimensions of deviance. This research informs the curriculum, ensuring that students are exposed to current academic debates, theoretical advancements, and empirical findings in both criminology and law. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests at the intersection of these fields through assignments and their final year interdisciplinary project, fostering independent learning and critical inquiry.
Industry Engagement: Bath Spa University's BSc (Hons) Criminology and Law program fosters connections with relevant organizations within the legal system and criminal justice agencies. The program may facilitate guest lectures by legal professionals (solicitors, barristers), police officers, probation officers, and individuals working in related fields. Students may have opportunities for visits to courts, prisons, and other legal and criminal justice institutions. While formal placements may vary, the program emphasizes the development of transferable skills relevant to these sectors, such as communication, critical analysis, legal reasoning, and problem-solving. The curriculum often incorporates real-world case studies and legal scenarios to enhance students' understanding of professional practice in both criminology and law.
Global Perspective: The BSc (Hons) Criminology and Law program at Bath Spa University incorporates a global perspective by examining international criminal law, comparative legal systems, transnational crime, and the intersection of international human rights with criminal justice. The curriculum may include case studies of legal and criminal justice systems in different countries, discussions on international human rights law and its impact on national legal frameworks, and the exploration of global crime challenges. The university's diverse international student body contributes to a global learning environment, fostering discussions and collaborations across different cultural perspectives on law and crime. Furthermore, the program may touch upon topics such as international legal institutions and the globalization of crime and justice issues, preparing graduates to understand and engage with these issues in a global context.
Location
Newton Park
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17670
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% 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 72.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- DET: A minimum overall score of 110.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Bath Spa University understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for international students, and to make studying in the UK more accessible, the university offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students and recognize their academic achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses.
International Scholarships: Bath Spa University offers a variety of international scholarships to help non-UK students cover part of their tuition fees. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential to contribute to the university community.
Undergraduate Scholarships: For undergraduate international students, Bath Spa University offers scholarships that range in value and are awarded to high-achieving students. These scholarships are intended to provide financial assistance to those who demonstrate excellent academic performance and commitment to their studies.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Bath Spa University also provides country-specific scholarships for international students from particular regions. These scholarships are designed to encourage students from specific countries to study at Bath Spa University and contribute to the diverse international student community. Students from certain countries may be eligible for specific funding opportunities based on their nationality. The university’s website provides up-to-date information on country-specific scholarship availability.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Many of Bath Spa University's scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or outstanding potential in their chosen field of study. Merit scholarships are typically awarded during the application process, and students do not need to apply separately for these awards.
External Scholarship Opportunities: In addition to the university’s internal scholarships, international students at Bath Spa University can also apply for external scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, or charitable foundations. Bath Spa University regularly updates a list of external scholarship opportunities that are available to international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
Graduates from the intellectually rigorous and interdisciplinary BSc (Hons) Criminology and Law program at Bath Spa University develop a highly valuable and multifaceted skillset, positioning them for a wide range of fulfilling careers that bridge the social and legal dimensions of crime and justice. The program's unique combination of criminological insight and legal knowledge equips graduates with critical thinking, analytical, ethical awareness, and legal reasoning essential for diverse professional roles within and beyond the traditional legal and criminal justice systems.
Paralegal: Assisting solicitors or barristers with legal research, case preparation, and administrative tasks.
Police Officer (with legal understanding): Applying a nuanced understanding of both criminal behavior and legal frameworks in law enforcement.
Probation Officer (with legal knowledge): Supervising offenders with a strong understanding of legal requirements and rehabilitation strategies.
Youth Offending Team (YOT) Worker (legal awareness): Working with young offenders, informed by both criminological principles and relevant youth justice law.
Court Administrator: Managing the administrative functions of courts, utilizing their understanding of legal procedures and the justice system.
Policy Analyst (Criminal Justice/Legal Reform): Researching and analyzing legal and criminological issues to advise on policy development and legal reform.
Legal Researcher (Criminology Focus): Conducting research on the intersection of law and crime for academic institutions, government bodies, or legal organizations.
Compliance Officer (Legal/Regulatory Focus): Ensuring organizations adhere to laws and regulations, particularly in areas related to crime prevention and legal obligations.
Civil Liberties Advocate: Working for organizations that promote and protect individual rights and freedoms within the legal system.
Trainee Solicitor/Barrister (after further qualification): Pursuing a career as a legal professional, specializing in areas such as criminal law, informed by their criminological understanding.
