Criminology degrees
Criminology provides a unique opportunity to tackle some of the most urgent issues shaping today’s world - from advances in police forensics to the rise of cyber and organised crime, and debates around police accountability.
Study Criminology at the University of Exeter
Criminology at Exeter will provide you with a solid basis in key criminological concepts, themes, institutions and the methods through which these are researched. You'll also have the opportunity to focus on areas of criminology that you find particularly interesting.
Our research active staff have specialisms across a range of research areas, including expertise in different criminal justice institutions and the techniques used (including forensics), research methods in criminology, international and comparative criminology and different types of crimes from cybercrime to crimes of the powerful and State violence.
Teaching methods are creative, often drawing on contemporary issues and on staff experience researching and working in the sector.
Our Criminology degrees and courses
Our Criminology degrees are taught on our Streatham Campus in Exeter.
Undergraduate degrees
Masters degrees
Related subjects
You may also be interested in our courses in Law, Psychology, Sociology and Philosophy. You can search a full list of subject areas taught at the University of Exeter.
Top 15 in the UK for Criminology
13th in the Guardian University Guide 2026
100% of our Sociology research has internationally excellent impact
Based on Sociology, Philosophy, Anthropology and Criminology research impact rated 4* + 3* in REF 2021.
Home to the prestigious Q-Step Centre for Computational Social Science (C2S2)
The University of Exeter is 155th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and 170th in the THE World Rankings 2026
Frequently asked questions about studying Criminology
We've answered some of our most frequently asked questions below to help you decide if a Criminology degree is right for you.
What career prospects would I have with a Criminology degree from Exeter?
Studying a Criminology degree will help you to develop strong analytical, research, and critical thinking skills as you explore crime, criminalisation, and victimisation. These skills prepare you for a wide variety of careers in criminal justice, social policy, research and beyond.
Find out more about a career with a degree in criminology.
Can international students apply for Criminology degrees?
Yes. Our international student community is part of what makes Exeter a top worldwide university. International students are welcome to apply for Bachelors (undergraduate) and Masters (postgraduate taught) degrees with us, as well as for postgraduate research opportunities.
For more information, visit our international students webpages.
One of the highlights of my course is the emphasis on quantitative analysis. To the uninitiated, that can sound extremely daunting, but I am so incredibly grateful for the numerous doors such a skill will open for me.
The large variety of available modules also makes it possible for students to tailor their experience however they wish, with classes ranging from Forensic Science to Terrorism.
Simone
Undergraduate student, BSc Criminology
Your future career with a Criminology degree
Our graduates are well-placed to enter careers across the criminal justice sector and beyond, with the opportunity to progress to research and further study at PhD level.
With the option to tailor your degree to your interests, you'll develop both specialist subject knowledge and transferable skills, including critical analysis, collaborative working, and effective written and oral communication - key attributes for a wide range of careers. You’ll also benefit from Exeter’s prestigious Q-Step Centre for Computational Social Science (C2S2) , where you’ll develop valuable research and data analysis skills that are in high demand with employers.
We provide a variety of support to help you develop skills attractive to employers. You'll be able to access a range of specific activities such as careers skills sessions and employer-led events, or seek bespoke advice and support from Employability Officers. With access to our award-winning Career Zone, you’ll also benefit from our longstanding industry connections.
Explore your career options with a Criminology degree
I have loved studying Criminology over the past four years, and have undertaken exciting classes such as Forensic Science as well as areas of the subject with a more quantitative focus, such as Social Data.
As part of my course, I studied for a year abroad in Milan, which was also a wonderful experience – I met lifelong friends and had the opportunity to experience a new culture and higher education system for a year!
Ands
BA Sociology and Criminology with Study Abroad