Criminology and Sociology BSc (Hons)

Course details:
Criminology is the study of crime within society, but, what is crime, why do people offend and what should we do with criminals? Why do we focus on crimes of the powerless, are crimes of the powerful more harmful? What is the role of the police and the criminal justice system? How does the news and media shape our understanding and experience of crime? How do race, gender, age, sexual orientation and class shape experiences of crime and victimisation? How does our more globalised world shape localised experiences of crime?

If you have an enquiring mind, are interested in key sociological issues in response to these questions, and being part of the solution, then criminology and sociology is for you. You explore concepts such as inequality, identity and social change alongside thinking through the motivations for crime, its wider social context and gaining an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system. The combination of subjects allows you to focus on and think critically about the social world in which you live.

Your dissertation and module options give you the opportunity to specialise in areas as diverse as criminal justice, consumer culture, work and leisure, and crimes of the powerful. Graduate careers include the police and probation services, and community development roles.

Top reasons to study this course:
1. Staff are research active which underpins their teaching, and means you gain a contemporary, authentic learning experience.
2. Guest speakers from within the criminal justice system share lived experiences and case studies.
3. Build up your general interest in criminology to specialise in your final year on your own piece of research.
4. Opportunities for work experience or a work-related learning project, including Volun-tees, across criminal justice areas such as drug projects, probation and victim support.

After the course:
Your skills will equip you well for the police force, probation service, prison service, youth work and community development. There are also opportunities for employment within the public sector and for postgraduate study.

All programmes are designed to incorporate employability skills development alongside your degree course. Our staff utilise their extensive connections to provide many and varied opportunities to engage with potential employers through fairs, guest lecture sessions, live projects and site visits. In addition we offer a series of workshops and events in the first, second and third year that ensure all students are equipped with both degree level subject knowledge PLUS the practical skills that employers are looking for in new graduate recruits.

Our award winning careers service works with regional and national employers to advertise graduate positions, in addition to providing post-graduation support for all Teesside University alumni.

Choosing Teesside University means joining a modern, ambitious university that puts students first. Named Modern University of the Year 2026 (Daily Mail University Guide 2026) and recognised for its outstanding student experience, Teesside combines award-winning teaching with the support you need to succeed.

Based in Middlesbrough, the university has invested millions into creating a vibrant campus packed with industry-standard facilities, study spaces and social hubs. You'll also have access to Adobe Creative Campus tools, helping you build valuable digital skills alongside your degree.

From day one, you'll be part of a welcoming student community with excellent support services, societies, sports clubs and opportunities to boost your career prospects. If you're looking for a university that helps you achieve more and make the most of student life, Teesside could be the perfect fit.