City

What you'll study

The programme begins with a Foundation Year that equips students with academic literacy, research skills, quantitative and qualitative methods basics, and introductory social science concepts to prepare for honours-level study. In subsequent years, students follow a taught curriculum combining sociology and criminology.

• Core sociology topics: social theory, class, race and gender, family and community, urban sociology and the sociology of work.
• Core criminology topics: theories of crime causation, patterns of offending, youth justice, policing, penology and the sociology of punishment.
• Research methods and data skills: qualitative methods (interviews, ethnography), quantitative methods (survey design, statistical analysis), and training in research ethics and report writing.
• Policy and applied modules: crime prevention, public policy analysis, comparative criminal justice systems, and modules exploring media, culture and crime.
• Optional modules and independent study: students typically choose from options that can include restorative justice, cybercrime, migration and social control, and complete a dissertation or substantial final-year research project.

Teaching normally uses a mix of lectures, seminars, small-group workshops and assessed coursework. Assessment methods include essays, research reports, presentations, exams and a final-year dissertation or project. Opportunities to participate in research projects, local placements or voluntary work may be available to complement taught modules.

Entry requirements

The Foundation Year route is designed for applicants who do not yet meet the standard entry requirements for direct admission to the BSc. Typical offers for the Foundation Year consider a range of qualifications and experience rather than fixed A‑level grades.

• Academic qualifications: applicants may be considered on the basis of a combination of general qualifications such as GCSEs plus relevant vocational awards, Access to Higher Education diplomas, or other recognised certificates. International qualifications such as the IB or equivalent are also considered.
• English language: non-native speakers are required to demonstrate proficiency in English. The department accepts recognised English language qualifications and tests; specific score requirements are published by the university.
• Other evidence: a personal statement outlining motivation for study, and, where applicable, references or evidence of relevant experience (paid work, voluntary roles or community engagement) will support the application.
• Progression: successful completion of the Foundation Year with the required pass profile normally allows progression to the first year of the BSc Honours programme.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with transferable analytical, research and communication skills valued across public, private and voluntary sectors. Common career paths include roles in criminal justice and community safety such as policing, probation and offender management; policy analysis and research for government departments and think tanks; roles in law enforcement-related NGOs and charities; and youth work and community development.

Other options include careers in data analysis, victim support services, advocacy, media and public relations, and further professional training or postgraduate study in areas such as criminology, sociology, social policy, law or social work (note that professional social work qualification routes are separate and may require additional training).

Why study at City

City is located in the heart of London, providing close proximity to a wide range of criminal justice organisations, public agencies and NGOs, which supports guest lectures, external speakers and potential workplace links. The university emphasises research-led teaching, giving students access to staff active in contemporary research on crime, urban life and social policy.

Students benefit from practical skills development including quantitative and qualitative research training, dedicated academic support, and opportunities to engage with London's diverse communities for applied learning. City also offers career support services, a programme of talks and events, and student societies that allow criminology and sociology students to broaden their networks and professional experience while studying.