Criminology with Criminal Law BA (Hons)

What is BA Criminology with Criminal Law?
BA Criminology with Criminal Law is a three-year degree, or four years with an optional placement or study abroad year.

You’ll explore how crime is understood, how criminal law is shaped in theory and practice, and how justice systems respond to harm. Criminologists and lawyers engage with some of the most pressing issues facing societies today, and this course examines crime, criminal law, and criminal justice within wider social contexts.

Why this course
How do we understand crime? Why should crime be punished? How can harms be restored? What shapes criminal law in principle and in practice? These are central questions that guide your studies throughout this degree.

This course brings together criminology and law to help you understand how legal systems define crime, how justice is administered, and how social contexts influence both criminal behaviour and legal responses.

You’ll study in a lively and supportive academic environment with opportunities to explore a wide range of topics, including cybercrime, terrorism, illegal migration, policing, criminal justice policy, and the principles of criminal law.

You’ll be taught by academics from both the Department of Sociology and Criminology and Essex Law School, giving you an interdisciplinary perspective grounded in both social science and legal expertise.

Who should apply
Students interested in crime, law, justice, and social policy
Those curious about how legal systems define and respond to criminal behaviour
Learners who enjoy analysing complex social and legal issues from multiple perspectives
Future legal professionals, criminologists, policymakers, or researchers

What you’ll learn
Crime and criminal justice: Explore theories of crime, punishment, and justice systems
Criminal law: Study the principles, structures, and application of criminal law in practice
Cybercrime and global threats: Examine emerging forms of crime including cybercrime, terrorism, and illegal migration
Policing and public policy: Investigate how law enforcement and policy shape criminal justice outcomes
Research methods: Develop criminological and legal research skills, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, and crime mapping

Your learning experience
Interdisciplinary teaching: Learn from experts in both criminology and law
Flexible study options: Explore a wide range of specialist topics across crime, law, and justice
Practical research training: Gain skills in criminological and legal research methods
Placement or study abroad opportunity: Enhance your experience through international study or workplace learning
Independent dissertation: Complete a supervised research project on a topic of your choice

Careers and outcomes
A BA Criminology with Criminal Law degree can prepare you for careers in:

Legal professions: Law, legal practice support, and paralegal roles
Criminal justice system: Policing, probation, courts, and youth justice services
Public policy and government: Policy development, criminal justice policy, and public administration
Cybersecurity and investigative roles: Roles addressing cybercrime and digital security challenges
Further study: Postgraduate study in law, criminology, criminal justice, or related disciplines