Criminology and Law BSc (Hons)

The Criminology and Law BSc (Hons) at City, University of London brings together the study of crime, justice, society and legal thinking in a way that helps you understand not only what the law says, but how it works in people’s everyday lives. It’s ideal for students who are curious about what causes crime, how communities respond and how legal systems shape fairness and justice in the real world.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 – Exploring Crime, Society and Law

In your first year, you’ll get a solid foundation in both criminology and law. You’ll dive into subjects like Introduction to Criminology and Crime and Social Policy, which help you think about why crime happens and how society tries to prevent it. Alongside this, modules such as Foundations of Law and Legal Systems introduce you to the basics of how laws are made, interpreted and applied, giving you confidence with key legal concepts from the start.

Year 2 – Building Knowledge and Skills

Your second year continues to deepen your understanding of crime and law, helping you see how these areas intersect in practice. You’ll study units like Criminal Justice Practice, which looks at how different parts of the justice system work together, and Tort and Contract Law, where you’ll learn how legal rules protect people in everyday interactions. Modules such as Research Methods in Criminology also help you develop the practical skills you need to analyse data, think critically and carry out independent projects.

Year 3 – Specialisation and Independent Thinking

In your final year, you’ll focus on more advanced and specialised topics that reflect your interests and career goals. You might take subjects like Comparative Criminal Justice, where you explore how different countries approach crime and punishment, or Human Rights and Law, which helps you connect legal principles to society’s biggest questions about justice and fairness. You’ll also complete a Final Research Project, giving you the chance to investigate a topic you’re passionate about and show off your independent thinking.

Focus areas (in a string):

Criminological theory, criminal justice systems, foundational and applied law, research methods, human rights, social policy.

Learning outcomes (in a string):

Develop strong analytical and legal understanding, apply criminological insight to real issues, communicate clearly, and conduct rigorous research.

Professional alignment (accreditation):

This degree is designed to give you both the academic depth in criminology and the legal awareness that employers in justice, policy and community fields value, positioning you well for further study or career pathways.

Reputation (employability rankings):

City, University of London is known for combining rigorous academic study with a practical, career-focused approach that supports graduates moving into roles in legal support, justice services, policy and beyond.