Criminology and Sociology BA (Hons)

Criminology and Sociology BA at Keele equips you to analyse complex social phenomena, explore the intersections of society and criminal justice, whilst developing innovative solutions to current and future societal challenges. Combining insights from two dynamic disciplines, this programme draws on a range of theories, methodologies, and data sets to address pressing social and criminological issues. Prepare to become a social scientist through engagement with community groups, activists and people working in public and private sectors.

Why choose this course?
• Keele pioneered the teaching of undergraduate Criminology in the UK



• Global Top 300 for Social Sciences (Times Higher Education World University Subject Rankings, 2022)



• Benefit from real-world industry experience with a placement year opportunity



• A chance to broaden your horizons and study abroad at a partner university



• No. 1 in the UK. Britains best university, as ranked by students (Student Crowd University Awards, 2022)



Build an understanding of crime, its causes and impacts in society through a Criminology and Sociology degree. Our programme offers a foundation in two core disciplines and the tools to examine inequality and social justice. Learn to recognise the classic theories and influences of social divisions around race, class, gender and sexuality, developing a clear understanding of the causes and impacts of various forms of discrimination. Foster an in-depth understanding of how individuals operate within social structures and institutions. The integration of both subjects allows you to apply sociological and criminological theory and evidence to real-world context to examine underlying causes of social issues.

Develop as a social scientist and learn to drive positive social change and influence crucial debates in criminal justice. Explore how social factors influence crime patterns and the efficacy of preventive measures within broader social and global contexts. Become familiar with effective skills to navigate and resolve social crises through appropriate concepts and methods. You will engage with public, private, and community sectors to see how criminological and sociological knowledge can be applied in real-world contexts.

Apply this to your learning and Independent Study Project in Criminology or Sociology to investigate a range of topics from gender identity, environmental justice and the impact of technological change to issues like organised crime, state violence, and victimisation. Supported by engaged researchers and a curriculum that bridges theory and practice, you will develop your analytical thinking and research skills.

About Keele

Keele University was established in 1949 by the former Vice-Chancellor of Oxford University. Founded to meet the needs of a changing world, Keele has always had a pioneering vision to be a different kind of university.

We excel in both teaching and research, with some of the most satisfied students in England, and research that is changing lives for the better at a regional, national and global level.

Our beautiful 600-acre campus is one of the biggest in Britain – but all the most important services and facilities are on your doorstep, with accommodation, teaching spaces, facilities including a medical centre, sports centre and pharmacy, and a range of shops, eateries and entertainment venues – including the Students’ Union – clustered around the centre.

Career focused courses, a vibrant student community and a beautiful 600-acre campus – this is Keele.

Whether you’re a passionate natural scientist, or eager to explore law, business, humanities or social sciences, our innovative courses are designed with your future in mind. Many of our courses offer a placement opportunity – just one of our initiatives that prepare you for real-world success.

Recognised for outstanding student experience and teaching quality, we were ranked a Top 10 UK university for student satisfaction across 15 subjects (National Student Survey 2025, broad-based English universities) and achieved Double Gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework (2017 and 2023).

Located in the Staffordshire countryside, but within easy reach of a bustling town, vibrant city and our noisy neighbours of Manchester and Birmingham, Keele truly offers the best of both worlds: a close-knit campus community and an exciting local area to explore.

We’d love to see you on campus soon.