Criminology Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

Why is knife crime on the rise? How can we tackle terrorism? These are the sort of questions that criminal justice professionals explore. This degree gives you a comprehensive overview of criminality – including its causes and impacts on an individual, societal and political level.

Crime and its impact are at the forefront of current political and social debate. We only have to check social media, switch on the television or pick up a newspaper to see headlines about crime and victimisation and to realise how relevant to everyday life the study of criminology has become. Our Criminology BSc enables you to explore the reality behind these headlines and examine a topic that is relevant, topical and has real, practical application in contemporary society.

Leicester ranks 6th in the UK for teaching Criminology (The Guardian University Guide 2025). We are home to some of the UK’s leading criminologists and as such, you will benefit from a focused and definitive education in the study of crime. Our strong performance in the National Student Survey since it began in 2005 reflects the popularity of the course among our students, as well as the dedication of the academic staff.

This course is designed to enable a smooth transition to higher education, providing you with full study skills support and a comprehensive research methods programme which will enable you to complete a research project of your own in your final year. Our degree offers flexibility and choice with a range of option modules for you to choose from, and you have the opportunity to take a Year Abroad between Years 2 and 3 of your degree. The curriculum includes a three-year careers and employability programme, giving you the opportunity to develop the skills you'll need for graduate jobs. Job prospects are excellent, with 97% of our criminology students are employed (or studying for a Masters degree) six months after graduating.

Our research expertise feeds directly into our teaching programme, providing innovative and exciting content, as well as keeping you abreast of current debates on crime and criminal justice. Our award-winning research has real impact in wider society, and it influences policy and practice within the UK and beyond. Our research strengths include:

* Desistance and rehabilitation

* Sexual violence

* Forensic science

* Hate crime

* Investigative psychology

* Policing

* Prisons

* Sex work