Applied Sociology and Criminology Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

Our sociology courses rank UK 7th in their field for student satisfaction (Complete University Guide, 2027).

Explore the forces that shape society and understand crime in a rapidly changing world while you dive into issues such as media representations of crime; urban and youth violence; forensic mental health; and the power of digital technologies. The course is designed to be both practical and thought-provoking, supporting you to build strong research and data-analysis skills while gaining hands-on experience. As you learn, you develop the knowledge and skills to make a difference in fields such as criminal justice, social policy, victim support and offender rehabilitation, to name just a few paths.

The course culminates in an independent dissertation, giving you the chance to explore a topic you’re passionate about.

Career-powered links

We have robust associations with organisations such as HMP Wells, Luton council, Luton's Women's Aid, Luton Women's Centre, local charities and volunteering organisations. These open up opportunities for volunteering and work placements for our students in the community or in practice.

Facilities and specialist equipment

* Four-storey library with an extensive range of physical and digital resources.

* Specialist labs, lecture theatres and bespoke group study spaces.

Your student experience

Uncover how social inequalities are formed and challenged; examine how crime impacts communities; and analyse the roles of the police, courts and prisons.

Connect your academic learning with its practical application, tackling contemporary, real-world issues such as education inequality, digital transformation and systemic biases in institutions.

Put theory into practice with opportunities for work-related learning, voluntary work and hands-on simulations of crime scenarios.

Learn from expert staff with diverse social science backgrounds, including forensic psychiatry, policing, offender management, social work, further education teaching and youth justice.

Benefit from staff actively involved in research across key areas such as human rights, safeguarding, social equity/justice, public policy, youth crime and violence, and offender management.

Become workplace ready by developing transferable skills in critical thinking; problem-solving; oral and written communication; IT literacy; and teamwork.

Enhance your learning through subject-relevant field trips to key institutions, including visits to The Old Bailey, Royal Courts of Justice and Luton Magistrates’ Court.

Engage with local charities, policymakers, and community leaders through the #Change Maker initiative, which empowers you to address and raise awareness of critical societal challenges.