Criminology
Head of Subject: Helen Ryder
Welcome to Criminology at Ivybridge Community College.
The WJEC Level 3 Diploma in Criminology is an engaging Applied General qualification that introduces students to the study of crime, drawing on elements of psychology, law and sociology. It develops a clear understanding of criminal behaviour, the justice system and how society responds to crime.
Students explore key topics including criminological theories, changing awareness of crime, the journey from crime scene to courtroom, and the purposes of punishment. Alongside this, they develop important academic and vocational skills such as research, analysis, problem-solving and independent learning.
The course includes both internal assessments and external examinations, delivered through purposeful, real-world contexts linked to the criminal justice system.
It supports progression from a wide range of GCSE subjects, particularly:
- Sociology
- History
- English
Students also build valuable transferable skills, including:
- Independent learning and personal development
- Project-based research, planning and presentation
- Problem-solving
- Working collaboratively in professional contexts
- Applying knowledge to real-life vocational situations
What will you study?
Students study four key units that explore crime, criminal behaviour and the justice system:
- Introduction to Criminological Theories
- Changing Awareness of Crime
- Crime Scene to Courtroom
- Crime and Punishment
Students must complete all units as part of the qualification.
Exam Board: https://www.wjec.co.uk/qualifications/criminology-level-3/#tab_keydocuments
Assessment
The qualification is assessed through both external examinations and controlled assessment.
External Assessment
The following units are externally assessed:
- Unit 2: Criminological Theories
- Unit 4: Crime and Punishment
Exam details:
- 90-minute written examination (75 marks)
- Three questions per paper
- Short and extended answer questions
- Based on stimulus material and applied contexts
- Includes applied problem-solving scenarios
Internal Assessment
The remaining units are assessed through controlled assessment.
Career Opportunities
The WJEC Level 3 Diploma in Criminology is designed to support progression to higher education, particularly degree courses such as:
- BSc (Hons) Law and Criminology
- LLB (Hons) Criminology and Sociology
- BA (Hons) Criminology
- BSc (Hons) Psychology and Sociology
- BSc Criminology and Law
It also provides relevant knowledge and skills for employment within the criminal justice sector, including roles in:
- The criminal justice system
- The National Probation Service
- The Courts and Tribunals Service
- Social and probation work
- The National Offender Management Service
Entry Requirements
Five GCSEs Grade 9 to 5, including English and Mathematics.
For more information, please contact the College here: