Programme Specification for the 2025/6 academic year
BSc (Hons) Criminology with Employment Experience
1. Programme Details
| Programme name | BSc (Hons) Criminology with Employment Experience | Programme code | UFS4HPSHPS18 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Study mode(s) | Part Time Full Time |
Academic year | 2025/6 |
| Campus(es) | Streatham (Exeter) |
NQF Level of the Final Award | 6 (Honours) |
2. Description of the Programme
The BSc in Criminology with Employment Experience at Exeter offers those with an interest in studying crime, criminal justice, and society an opportunity to develop their theoretical understandings as well as gain training in social science research design and statistical data analysis. Criminology aims to provide systematic understanding of the historical patterning of crime, the causes of criminal behaviour and its consequences, as well as policy response. Through Criminology at Exeter you will learn to understand the multi-perspectival nature of crime, to explore terrains that are often contested, and to develop a critical appreciation of disciplinary perspectives. The inter-disciplinary make-up of the programme is rooted in sociological approaches, but also offers the potential to combine these perspectives for understanding and responding to crime and deviance with those from historical, political, and psychological studies. You will explore theoretical, empirical and methodological issues associated with these fields of social research. The training you will receive in this programme will equip you with transferable skills for a variety of careers in the criminal justice system as well as other professional and academic fields.
This programme is studied over four years. The first two years and the final year are university-based, and the third year is spent gaining employment experience at a suitable location in the UK.
This Employment Experience variant of the programme is a great way to incorporate graduate-level work placement or placements undertaken in the United Kingdom directly into your programme of study, to reflect critically upon these experiences, and for them to count towards the assessment of your degree. There is no better way to gain valuable employment experience that can be rewarded and recognised clearly by future employers. With preparation, support and approval from the Faculty, you can also demonstrate adaptability and resourcefulness by organising suitable placements in areas of employment related to your interests and potential future career.
3. Educational Aims of the Programme
The programme will:
- provide you with a teaching and learning programme informed by a vibrant research culture and with excellent learning opportunities.
- enable you to develop into graduates who will be useful, productive and questioning members of society.
- allow you to become grounded in the main themes of Criminology through a combination of modules, which help you to develop an appreciation and understanding of how societies define and respond to crime.
- enable you to become competent in the specific skills required in Criminology, core academic skills and a wide range of generic and transferable skills.
- offer you a wide range of choice within the programme of study, insofar as this choice is consistent with the coherence and intellectual rigour of the degree.
- provide you with an excellent Honours-level education in Criminology, which meets the criteria for Honours level awards as set out in the FHEQ and the University’s statement of Levels and Awards, and which meets the standards set in the national Subject Benchmarking statements for Criminology.
- provide you with a stimulating and supportive environment for students that is informed by research where deemed appropriate.
- develop your competence in the subject-specific skills required in Criminology through practical engagement with primary and empirical data.
- expose you to different teaching and assessment methods within an appropriate learning environment, supported by feedback, monitoring and pastoral care.
- provide you with a range of academic and personal skills which will prepare you for employment or further study, which will foster mental agility and adaptability, and which will enable you to deploy your knowledge, abilities and skills in their entirety, displaying balance and judgement in a variety of circumstances.
4. Programme Structure
The BSc Criminology with Employment Experience is a 4-year full-time programme of study at Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) level (6) (as confirmed against the FHEQ). This programme is divided into 4 stages. Each stage is normally equivalent to an academic year.
5. Programme Modules
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.
The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual review of this programme. Details of the modules currently offered may be obtained from the Faculty website:
https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/studyinformation/modules/?prog=sociology
You may take optional modules as long as any necessary prerequisites have been satisfied, where the timetable allows and if you have not already taken the module in question or an equivalent module.
The first year gives you a foundational knowledge of criminology and social theory, methods and concepts. You will also gain important analytical techniques that will be useful across a range of subjects and research tasks.
You will take 90 credits of compulsory modules. You should select a further 30 credits of optional modules (in other words two 15 credit modules). Examples are listed below. Available modules will be subject to change each year.
90 credits of compulsory modules, 30 credits of optional modules.
Stage 1
90 credits of compulsory modules, 30 credits of optional modules
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSI1005 | Introduction to Social Data | 15 | Yes |
| SSI1006 | Data Analysis in Social Science 1 | 15 | Yes |
| SOC1001 | Social Analysis | 30 | No |
| SOC1039 | Social Issues: Part I - Introducing Crime and Deviance | 15 | No |
| SOC1040 | Social Issues: Part II - Themes in Criminology | 15 | No |
| HAS1905 | Employment Experience HASS | 0 | No |
Optional Modules
30 credits from stage 1 Criminology approved options (SOC1xxx or SPA1xxx)
https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/studyinformation/modules/?prog=sociology
Please note that modules are subject to change and not all modules are available across all programmes, this is due to timetable, module size constraints and availability
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology Stage 1 Option Modules 2025-6 | |||
| ANT1000 | Introduction to Social Anthropology | 30 | No |
| ANT1013 | Traditions of Anthropological Inquiry | 30 | No |
| SOC1000 | Contemporary Society: Themes, Perspectives and Case Studies | 30 | No |
| SOC1028 | Media and Society | 15 | No |
| CRI1005 | Introduction to Criminal Justice | 15 | No |
Stage 2
60 credits of compulsory modules, 60 credits of optional modules
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| SOC2035 | International Criminal Justice: Comparative Criminology | 15 | No |
| SOC2036 | International Criminal Justice: Application of Theory to Transnational and International Crime | 15 | No |
| SSI2004 | Research Design in the Social Sciences | 15 | Yes |
| SSI2005 | Data Analysis in Social Science 2 | 15 | Yes |
| HAS1905 | Employment Experience HASS | 0 | No |
Optional Modules
60 credits from stage 2 Criminology approved options (SOC2xxx or SPA2xxx)
https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/studyinformation/modules/?prog=sociology
Please note that modules are subject to change and not all modules are available across all programmes, this is due to timetable, module size constraints and availability
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology Stage 2 Option Modules 2025-6 | |||
| ARC2514 | Forensic Anthropology | 15 | No |
| BIO2068 | Forensic Science | 30 | No |
| POL2057 | Security Studies | 15 | No |
| SOC2024 | Power and Domination | 15 | No |
| SPA2018 | Addiction | 30 | No |
| CRI2018 | Crime Prevention and Control within Contemporary Society | 15 | No |
| CRI2014 | Crime Science | 15 | No |
| CRI2012 | Deprivation of liberty: Imprisonment and beyond | 15 | No |
| CRI2010 | Forensic Science, Conflict and Justice | 15 | No |
| CRI2007 | Imprisonment: Key Criminological and Sociological Themes | 15 | No |
| CRI2015 | Introduction to Terrorism Studies | 30 | No |
| CRI2001 | Organised Crime and Criminal Networks | 15 | No |
| CRI2008 | Police and Policing | 15 | No |
| CRI2006 | Race, Ethnicity and Criminalisation | 15 | No |
| CRI2009 | Victimology | 15 | No |
| SPA2015 | When Things Fall Apart: Social Infrastructures | 15 | No |
| SPA2029 | Data Justice and Surveillance Capitalism | 15 | No |
Stage 3
120 credit compulsory placement module
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSI3020 | Employment Experience (UK and Abroad) | 120 | Yes |
Stage 4
30 credit compulsory Dissertation, 90 credits of optional modules
Compulsory Modules
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| SSI3019 | Quantitative Dissertation | 30 | Yes |
Optional Modules
90 credits from stage 4 Criminology approved options (SOC3xxx or SPA3xxx)
https://www.exeter.ac.uk/study/studyinformation/modules/?prog=sociology
Please note that modules are subject to change and not all modules are available across all programmes, this is due to timetable, module size constraints and availability
| Code | Module | Credits | Non-condonable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminology Final Stage Option Modules 2025-6 | |||
| ARC3510 | Experimental Approaches to Forensic and Archaeological Investigations | 15 | No |
| PSY3411 | Psychology and Law | 15 | No |
| CRI3006 | Race, Ethnicity and Criminalisation | 15 | No |
| CRI3007 | Imprisonment: Key Criminological and Sociological Themes | 15 | No |
| CRI3008 | Police and Policing | 15 | No |
| CRI3009 | Victimology | 15 | No |
| CRI3010 | Forensic Science, Conflict and Justice | 15 | No |
| CRI3012 | Deprivation of liberty: Imprisonment and beyond | 15 | No |
| CRI3014 | Crime Science | 15 | No |
| CRI3015 | Introduction to Terrorism Studies | 30 | No |
| CRI3018 | Crime Prevention and Control within Contemporary Society | 15 | No |
| SOC3147 | Power and Domination | 15 | No |
| SPA3015 | When Things Fall Apart: Social Infrastructures | 15 | No |
| SPA3018 | Addiction | 30 | No |
| SPA3025 | Data Visualisation | 15 | No |
6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods
Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
1. Demonstrate your understanding of criminology as a distinct area of study and inquiry, and its multidisciplinary or interdisciplinary nature | 1-3. These skills are developed in the approved criminology modules including stage 1 core. 4-6. These skills are developed through core modules 7. These skills will be practiced through coursework and examination and seminar work in all modules, and consolidated specifically in modules at stage 2 and 4 | The assessment of these skills is through a combination of: Term-time essays 1-7 oral presentations 1-7 examinations (and, where applicable, Research Methods Project and Dissertation work) 1-7 The criteria of assessment pay full recognition to the importance of the various skills outlined. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
8. Draw thematic comparisons between material from different sources | These skills are developed throughout the degree programme, but the emphasis becomes more complex as students move from stage to stage. They are developed through lectures and seminars, written work, and oral work (both presentation and class discussion). | The assessment of these skills is through a combination of: Term-time essays 8-18 Other assessments as deemed appropriate. |
Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge
| Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) On successfully completing this programme you will be able to: | Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be... | |
|---|---|---|
| ...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class): | ...and evidenced by the following assessment methods: | |
19. Undertake independent research and ability to work to deadlines | 19 is an essential part of the successful completion of the programme but is addressed in the dissertation. 20 is developed through training and application of relevant software throughout the programme 21 is developed through essay and presentation work throughout the programme. 22 is developed throughout the dissertation (and through the self-appraisal in the inter-semester week). 23 is developed through seminars, which form part of all modules. The skills in 24 and 25 are developed to some extent in all modules, through interaction in seminars and in discussion with tutors about essay work, and in response to criticism both collective and individual. 26 and 27 are developed through the Dissertation at stage 3, which has a single end of year deadline. 28 and 29 are developed through all modules. | The skills in 19, 20 and 21 are assessed in all modules. 21 is covered by the fact that students write essays, which are formatively and summatively assessed, of differing lengths and in the Dissertation. 22 Is assessed implicitly throughout, and aided through the student self-appraisal system that takes place in the inter-semester week of Spring Term. 23 24, 25 and 26 are formally assessed. 27 Is covered by the Dissertation. 28 and 29 by all modules. |
7. Programme Regulations
Classification
Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.
8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning
Personal and Academic tutoring : It is University policy that all Faculties should have in place a system of academic and personal tutors. The role of academic tutors is to support you on individual modules; the role of personal tutors is to provide you with advice and support for the duration of the programme and extends to providing you with details of how to obtain support and guidance on personal difficulties such as accommodation, financial difficulties and sickness. You can also make an appointment to see individual teaching staff.
Information on the Faculty Personal Tutoring system, library provision. ELE resources and access to Faculty support services can be found via the Faculty webpages.
Student/Staff Liaison Committee enables students & staff to jointly participate in the management and review of the teaching and learning provision.
9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning
Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.
10. Admissions Criteria
Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.
Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.
11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards
Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.
The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.
14. Awarding Institution
University of Exeter
15. Lead College / Teaching Institution
Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences (HASS)
16. Partner College / Institution
Partner College(s)
Not applicable to this programme
Partner Institution
Not applicable to this programme.
17. Programme Accredited / Validated by
0
18. Final Award
BSc (Hons) Criminology with Employment Experience
19. UCAS Code
Not applicable to this programme.
20. NQF Level of Final Award
6 (Honours)
21. Credit
| CATS credits | 480 |
ECTS credits | 240 |
|---|
22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group
[Honours] Criminology
23. Dates
| Origin Date | 07/10/2024 |
Date of last revision | 07/10/2024 |
|---|
