Criminology

Explore crime from multiple angles, and arm yourself with the specialist knowledge and skills that will get you noticed by employers when you graduate.

Why study criminology?
To tackle crime, we need to understand it why it happens, what people feel about it, and how it impacts on individuals and society.

Exploring these issues from different angles is an essential part of discovering more effective deterrents and better forms of rehabilitation.

Studying this subject will give you the knowledge and skills to play your part in that work whether you choose to move into the criminal justice system itself or a related field.

Why study at UWE Bristol?
BA(Hons) Criminology teaches you about crime and the criminal justice system, drawing on sociology, law, psychology and philosophy, and applying theories, knowledge and research to real, contemporary issues.

Work with inspirational practitioners and researchers to explore the different perspectives of victims, offenders, the criminal justice system and the cultural forces at play.

Learn how to think critically, write reports, interpret data, formulate arguments, and make ethical judgements.

You'll carry out your own research, hear from guest speakers, and take part in work-based learning through our links with organisations such as the Bristol Young Offenders Scheme, the Institute of Psychotherapy and the police.

Activities such as volunteering, placements and internships will deepen your professional skills and knowledge further, to make you highly sought after when you graduate.

Where can it take me?
Criminology studies society in all its forms so it's the ideal platform for many careers.

You could work in government, the police and prison services, the court services, the NHS, educational institutions or non-governmental organisations (NGOs) working with young offenders or victims of crime.

You could also go into social welfare or the private sector, working in private security or law.

University is a time to try new things, meet new people and make new goals. With Clearing at UWE Bristol, you'll get the chance to take control of your future and choose an exciting path for yourself.

UWE Bristol offers over 100 professionally accredited courses, including Architecture, Accounting and Finance, Games Technology, Mathematics and Sport Rehabilitation. Whether you're studying an arts, business, healthcare or science degree, all undergraduate courses are designed with employability in mind. You can work a year in industry, study across the world, and get one-to-one careers advice on campus. It's no wonder an outstanding 89% of students find work or further study just 15 months after graduating (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2022/23, published 2025).

You'll also be studying in a top 10 most popular city in the UK (YouGov, 2026). With famous festivals, renowned galleries, lively nightclubs and independent restaurants right on your doorstep, you're guaranteed an incredible student experience in Bristol. With famous festivals, renowned galleries, lively nightclubs and independent restaurants right on your doorstep, you're guaranteed an incredible student experience in Bristol.

Your Future, Right Here. Study at UWE Bristol. Choose to do Clearing right.