Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This degree blends criminological theory, empirical research methods and substantive areas of law to give you a rounded understanding of crime, justice and legal processes. Typical themes include sociological and psychological explanations of offending, the organisation and practice of policing and penal systems, youth and community justice, and the social harms produced by inequality and policy.

Core legal topics usually cover criminal law, constitutional and administrative law principles relevant to rights and procedure, evidence and punishment, and comparative perspectives on criminal justice. Research skills are introduced early and developed through modules in qualitative and quantitative methods, ethics and a final-year independent project or dissertation.

• Foundations of criminological theory and criminal law
• Policing, punishment and the prison system
• Victimology, youth justice and restorative practice
• Research methods in criminology (qualitative and quantitative)
• Human rights, civil liberties and their intersections with criminal justice
• Optional modules such as forensic psychology, penology, cybercrime, substance misuse, or comparative criminal justice
• Independent research project or dissertation in final year

The programme places emphasis on applied learning: seminars and small-group tutorials, case studies, guest speakers from criminal justice agencies, and opportunities for work-related learning or placements where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold standard secondary qualifications such as A-levels, BTEC or an equivalent vocational qualification. Typical offers combine successful completion of a relevant qualification with good grades; applicants holding an Access to Higher Education Diploma or international qualifications such as the IB are also considered.

Successful candidates will usually demonstrate strong written communication skills, an interest in social issues and an ability to engage with theoretical and empirical material. Work experience in social care, voluntary organisations or the criminal justice system can strengthen an application.

International applicants must meet the University's English language requirements; specific language tests and scores will be listed by the Admissions Office. If you have questions about equivalencies or alternative routes (for mature students, those with higher education credits, or applicants with vocational experience), contact the admissions team for advice.

Career prospects

Graduates from criminology and law programmes move into a wide range of roles across public, private and third sectors. Common destinations include policing and probation services, youth justice and social work, offender management, victim support and advocacy, policy and research roles in government or NGOs, and community development organisations.

The degree also provides a foundation for further legal training (such as a law conversion course) for those wishing to pursue careers as solicitors or barristers, or postgraduate study in criminology, criminal justice policy, forensic psychology or social research. The emphasis on research methods and critical thinking makes graduates attractive to employers in analysis, compliance, advocacy and criminal justice administration.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers an applied, student-centred approach with small-group teaching and an emphasis on employability. The university’s location provides access to a wide range of criminal justice organisations, charities and research networks in and around Oxford, enabling guest lectures, visits and placement opportunities.

The programme is delivered by staff with active research and professional engagement in criminology and law, combining theoretical insight with practical perspectives. Support services for students include careers advice, placement coordination and skills development workshops to help you translate academic study into a career in the criminal justice field.

Overall, the course is suited to students seeking a vocationally relevant interdisciplinary degree that balances academic rigour with practical experience and clear routes into work or further study.