Oxford Brookes University

What you'll study

This combined honours degree integrates core criminological perspectives with political analysis. In the early stages you will study foundational topics such as theories of crime, introductions to criminal justice systems, political theory and comparative government. As you progress, optional and core modules explore policing, youth justice, victimology, penology, public policy, governance, electoral systems and policy analysis. Research methods and quantitative and qualitative skills are embedded throughout the course, culminating in a final-year independent dissertation or applied research project that allows you to specialise in an area such as crime prevention, security policy, human rights or restorative justice.

• Core criminology topics: criminological theory, criminal justice institutions, criminological research methods, offending and desistance, punishment and rehabilitation.
• Core politics topics: political ideologies, comparative politics, public policy, governance and local government, international relations and political economy.
• Skills development: research methods (qualitative and quantitative), policy analysis, critical thinking, argumentation, presentation and report writing, and data handling relevant to both social science and policy environments.
• Assessment: a mix of essays, policy briefings, research reports, examinations, group work and a substantial final-year dissertation or applied project.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires successful completion of secondary education qualifications equivalent to A-levels, Scottish Highers, the International Baccalaureate or recognised international equivalents. Admissions look for relevant subject strengths and strong written communication skills; typical offers will ask for a combination of grades demonstrating academic capability. Mature applicants and those with relevant work experience in criminal justice, social work or community organisations are encouraged to apply and may be considered through contextual admissions. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet the university's English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates from Criminology and Politics pursue a wide range of careers across the public, private and third sectors. Typical roles include policy analyst, research assistant, probation officer, police officer, community development worker, youth justice practitioner, criminal intelligence analyst, campaigner for NGOs, and roles in local or national government. The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study in criminology, criminal justice, public policy, social research and law, and supports career pathways into academia, consultancy and international organisations.

Why study at Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes offers a practical, applied approach to social science teaching with opportunities for work placements, applied projects and engagement with local criminal justice and policy organisations. The university emphasises research-informed teaching and small-group learning, enabling close contact with teaching staff who are active researchers in policing, punishment, public policy and crime prevention. Students benefit from the resources and networks of being located near a historic city with a busy public sector and third-sector presence, and from facilities for social science research training and employability support offered by the university.