Criminology (Vocational A Level)
at Tameside College, Ashton-Under-Lyne · college
What the college says
Criminology is an exciting and relevant Level 3 course that explores crime, criminal behaviour and the criminal justice system. It combines elements of law, psychology and sociology to help students understand why crime happens, how society responds to it, and how criminal cases move through the justice system. This is a two-year Level 3 Applied Diploma, usually studied alongside other Level 3 qualifications such as A Levels. The course is designed for students who are interested in crime, justice, social issues and the ways in which society responds to deviant behaviour. It is equivalent in size to one A Level and is recognised as an Applied General qualification. Students study four units: * Unit 1: Changing Awareness of Crime * Unit 2: Criminological Theories * Unit 3: Crime Scene to Courtroom * Unit 4: Crime and Punishment. In Changing Awareness of Crime, you will examine different types of crime, the way crime is represented in the media, and how campaigns can be used to raise awareness of unreported or under-represented crime. In Criminological Theories, you will explore a range of explanations for why people commit crime, including biological, psychological and sociological theories. In Crime Scene to Courtroom, you will study the criminal justice process, including how crimes are investigated, how evidence is collected and used, and how cases are prepared for trial. In Crime and Punishment, you will examine the aims of punishment, different forms of social control, an
What you need to get on
Entry requirements for A Level courses * Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics. * A strong interest in and enthusiasm for, the subject chosen. * A willingness to commit to regular Independent Study outside of lesson time, as A Level courses require a high level of motivation, organisation and academic commitment. * An interview may be required as part of the application process. Please note: some courses have additional entry requirements.
How you are assessed
Academic subjects, mostly exams, three or four at once. The traditional route to university.
What this level means
The A-level-equivalent step, and what universities and employers ask for.
Is it open to 16 to 18 year olds?
Approved for 16 to 18 study on the government's Section 96 list.
Where it runs
Clarendon Sixth Form College
Camp Street, Ashton-under-Lyne, OL6 6DF
DaytimeClassroom basedCheck the journey
Start dates
- 7 September 2026 · Ashton-under-Lyne
Who else teaches this exact qualification
Same qualification, different college. Entry requirements and how it is taught can differ a lot between them, which is the whole reason to compare.
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