Criminology (with Foundation Year)

This is a four-year programme that includes a year of foundational study at our Llandaff campus and leads directly into the degree course, which will be taught at our Cyncoed campus. Our foundation year offers the chance to strengthen your skills, knowledge and confidence, before you advance to stage one of your honours degree.

Have you ever wondered what motivates people to commit crime? Have you thought about how society shapes our understanding of crime and criminals? Or how they are treated within the criminal justice system?

The Cardiff Met BSc (Hons) Criminology degree combines both theoretical and empirical study into a modern programme that will challenge the way you look at the study of crime.

In addition to learning about the underpinning philosophies and theories that explore crime as an academic field of study, you will explore the evidence base for these theories and philosophies, and potentially contribute towards our developing understanding in a range of cutting-edge topics.

Studying Criminology at Cardiff Met, you will focus on three key strands that are woven throughout the degree which include Criminology Theories, the fundamentals of the Criminal Justice System and Emerging Disciplines in contemporary Criminology.

Work-based learning, authentic opportunities to learn, and employability skills are at the core of your student experience. You will gain valuable insight into real-world opportunities from a range of guest speakers and field trips and be taught by research active lecturers who have both national and international experience within their specialisms. The second-year placement will provide you with an outstanding opportunity to gain invaluable work experience in appropriate and relevant industries, in addition to a range of voluntary opportunities available throughout your study. You can also graduate with an additional nationally recognised ILM Level 5 Leadership and Management qualification if you choose to study our optional Leadership and Management module in year two.

There’s still time to secure an award-winning university experience at Cardiff Met, ranked a top 3 Welsh university (Uni Compare Rankings 2026).

Whatever your goals, you’ll be supported to reach your full potential through expert teaching and a supportive environment. Gain real-world experience via placements and live briefs, and graduate with the skills to make a positive impact.

Professionally accredited courses prepare you for the world of work, alongside year-round careers support, entrepreneurship opportunities and options to study abroad.

Cardiff is also one of the UK’s most affordable cities (NatWest Student Living Index 2025), offering vibrant food, nightlife, green spaces and more on a student budget.

Into sport? Cardiff Met is a leading UK university for student sport, supporting both academic and athletic success.