Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

The Criminology and Education Studies degree brings together social science approaches to crime, justice and social policy with theoretical and practical perspectives on education, learning and youth work. Across the programme you will study how social inequalities, classroom practices and institutional responses shape experiences of offending, victimisation and learning.

• Core criminology modules: topics commonly include Introduction to Criminology, Crime and Society, Criminal Justice Processes, Policing and Community Safety, Youth Justice, Victimology and Punishment.
• Core education modules: typical units cover Foundations of Education, Learning and Development across the life-course, Curriculum and Pedagogy, Inclusion and Special Educational Needs, and Education Policy.
• Research and professional practice: students learn quantitative and qualitative research methods, ethics and data analysis, and complete practice-focused modules such as Classroom Practice, Professional Practice in Youth and Community Settings or a supervised placement.
• Final year project: you will normally complete a substantial dissertation or applied research project that can be oriented to either criminology or education themes, demonstrating independent enquiry and research skills.
• Options and pathways: the course typically offers optional modules that allow specialisation in areas such as comparative education, community safety, restorative justice, offending behaviour, drugs and society, or education for marginalised groups.
• Study structure: the programme is usually delivered full-time over three years, with many students having the opportunity to take a placement or professional experience year to gain hands-on experience with schools, youth services, probation or community organisations.

Entry requirements

Applicants should normally hold completion of secondary level qualifications equivalent to UK A-levels. Typical offers require a successful combination of academic qualifications and, where relevant, supporting experience in education, youth work or the voluntary sector. Admissions staff look for evidence of academic ability, clear motivation for the programme and the capacity to engage with both theory and practice.

• Academic qualifications: three A-levels (or equivalent qualifications such as BTEC, Access to HE, International Baccalaureate or recognised international credentials) are usually expected. Specific grade requirements are set by the university and may vary by year and applicant background.
• GCSEs/School-level English and Maths: applicants are normally expected to have passes in English and maths at standard school-leaving level or an approved equivalent.
• Experience and personal statement: relevant voluntary or paid experience in schools, youth work, community organisations, criminal justice agencies or related settings is advantageous. Your personal statement should explain your interest in the combined subjects and reflect on any practical experience.
• International applicants: will need to demonstrate equivalent academic qualifications and English language proficiency to study at undergraduate level in the UK.
• Interview or additional checks: some applicants may be invited to an interview or asked to provide references. Criminal record checks are commonly required for placement or professional practice components.

Career prospects

Graduates from Criminology and Education Studies move into a wide range of roles across the public, private and voluntary sectors. The degree combines analytical, research and interpersonal skills valued by employers working with children, young people and communities.

• Typical entry-level roles include youth worker, community support officer, case worker for charities, probation support roles, prison officer (subject to employer requirements), support worker in education or social care, and research assistant positions in policy organisations.
• Other pathways lead to work in policing, offender rehabilitation, victim support services, early-years and school support roles, and roles in community safety teams.
• Many graduates progress to postgraduate training such as teacher training (PGCE), social work qualification, counselling or specialist MA/MSc programmes in criminology, education, social policy or research methods.
• The degree also prepares students for careers in research, policy development, and advocacy where combined understanding of crime and education is an asset.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a practical, student-focused learning environment with an emphasis on applied learning and employability. The university is located in and around Oxford, which provides strong opportunities for placements, partnerships and professional networking across education and criminal justice organisations.

• Applied learning: the programme emphasises work-related skills, with chances to undertake placements, short professional practice modules and practitioner-led teaching.
• Research-informed teaching: you will be taught by staff engaged in social science and education research, bringing contemporary evidence and case studies into the classroom.
• Support for employability: dedicated careers and placement teams help students secure relevant experience, develop professional skills and prepare applications for jobs or postgraduate study.
• Teaching style and facilities: small-group seminars, workshops and community-based projects are complemented by university study resources, libraries and online learning support.
• Local partnerships: the university’s regional links with schools, charities, youth services and criminal justice agencies provide realistic learning contexts and potential placement opportunities.