Sixth Form - Criminology Certificate WJEC (FSFC)

Criminology is becoming an increasingly popular subject for students who are interested in a career in criminology or the criminal justice system.

The subject explores different types of crime, public perceptions of crime and explanations of crime including biological, psychological and sociological theories. As part of the course students will also learn about investigating crimes, the trial process and how laws are created.

It is an Applied Diploma course which is the equivalent to one A level and would be studied alongside two other A Levels.

In the first year of this course, you will study types of crime, the public perceptions of crime and reasons for unreported crime. You’ll also focus on media representation of crime and its impact on public perceptions, collecting and evaluating statistics about crime, crime campaigns and explanations of criminal behaviour (including biological, psychological and sociological explanations).

The units you will cover in the second year are: investigating crime scenes (including how to process forensic evidence), trial process, law making and forms of punishment.

Learning methods

You will learn through a variety of methods including lectures, group activities, independent research and discussion.

Assessment

You will be assessed via controlled assessment and examination. In both years of the course, there will be an eight-hour controlled assessment (split over two days) and a 90-minute examination.

We ask for a GCSE point score of 5 or above to study a two-year A Level programme.

This will include a 5 or above in English and Maths.

Your average GCSE score will include the Grades for all your GCSE subjects, added together, then divided by the number of subjects you’ve taken.

Please note: If you have a GCSE point score between 4.75 and 5 you may be able to access certain A Level subjects but it will require a discussion with a Curriculum Manager.

Progression opportunities could include going on to study a degree in criminology, sociology, psychology or law.

Career opportunities could include a career in the criminal justice system such as; police officer, detective, prison officer, probation officer or social/youth worker.