Are you a fan of true crime podcasts and documentaries? Then a degree in criminology might be the perfect career choice for you. Criminology, the study of crime and criminal behavior, is a field that has gained immense popularity in recent years. The UK has a rich tradition of legal and criminal justice systems, making it an ideal destination for studying criminology. It offers a plethora of opportunities for aspiring criminologists, with several renowned universities offering top-notch criminology courses. Universities where you can pursue criminology courses in the UK are Loughborough University, Durham University, Staffordshire University, University of Leeds, and University of Sheffield. Let us explore the criminology courses offered by these universities along with their fees for international students.
Overview: Pursue Criminology Courses in the UK
Number of universities | 106 (source: Guardian) |
Number of courses | 954 (source: Guardian) |
Course levels | Undergraduate and graduate |
Duration | 3-4 years (undergraduate) and 1-2 years (graduate) |
Annual tuition fees for international students | £ |
Why Pursue Criminology Courses in the UK?
Globally ranked universities: The UK boasts a rich academic heritage, with universities consistently ranking among the world’s best. Loughborough University, Durham University, Staffordshire University, University of Leeds, and the University of Sheffield have been ranked top 5 in the country for criminology studies.
Dynamic learning environment: The top-tier faculty, facilities, and cutting-edge curriculum provide a dynamic environment for students to learn. The educational curricula for criminology are designed to boost critical thinking, and problem-solving via interactive teaching methods.
Ample networking opportunities: The UK offers ample opportunities for internships, networking, and hands-on experiences to students. This exposure widens the career prospects of criminology graduates.
Diversity: Criminology universities in the UK have a vibrant international community with ample diversity beneficial for today’s interconnected world.
Post-study work visa: The UK offers a post-study work visa that allows international graduates to work in the UK after completing their degrees. International students can also work while studying in the country.
Wide employment options: The UK being a global financial hub offers plenty of employment opportunities for criminology graduates.
Rankings: Top Universities for Criminology Courses in the UK
University Name | Guardian Ranking 2023 |
Loughborough University | 1 |
Durham University | 2 |
Staffordshire University | 3 |
University of Leeds | 4 |
University of Sheffield | 5 |
Wrexham Glyndŵr University (Wrexham University) | 6 |
University of Leicester | 7 |
University of Exeter | 8 |
University of Bolton | 9 |
Swansea University | 10 |
Top Universities to Pursue Criminology Courses in the UK
Loughborough University
Located in Leicestershire, England, Loughborough University is a public university renowned globally for its outstanding academic rankings. It came into existence as Loughborough Technical Institute in 1909 but received university status in 1966. It has been awarded triple gold –the highest honor possible– in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework. The university has two campuses: Loughborough campus, based in England, and London campus based in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Both campuses offer a range of programs spanning the arts, humanities, social sciences, business, sport, health, science, engineering, and mathematics.
The criminology courses at Loughborough University are taught by academics who are experts in the field. This strategy ensures that our courses are supported by the most recent advancements in research and applied learning methods.
Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
Criminology BSc (Hons) degree | 4 years | £22,000 |
Criminology and Sociology BSc (Hons) degree | 4 years | £22,000 |
Criminology MSc | 1 year | Yet to be confirmed |
Durham University
Established in 1832, Durham University is a public research university located in Durham, England. The university is ranked 78th in the QS World University Rankings 2024. 20,268 students are currently enrolled at this university. There are 26 departments at the university and it boasts a strong reputation in criminology and criminal justice studies.
At Durham University, criminology is taught through a mix of lectures, small-group seminars, research-based workshops, individual supervision, and guided independent work. Both undergraduate and postgraduate courses are available. Students who lack general admission requirements for the BA Criminology degree can opt for the 1-year foundation program to fulfill the same.
Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
Criminology with Foundation BA | 1 year foundation + 3 years | Not available |
Criminology BA | 3 years | Not available |
Criminology and Criminal Justice MSc | 1 year | £25,000 |
Staffordshire University
This Russell Group university was founded in 1971 in Staffordshire, England. Besides the main campus located in the city of Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire University has four more campuses in Stafford, Lichfield, Shrewsbury, and London. It has five academic schools: School of Digital, Technologies and Arts, School of Health, Science and Wellbeing, School of Justice, Security and Sustainability, Institute of Education, and Staffordshire University London.
The School of Justice, Security and Sustainability at Staffordshire University offers the following two programs in criminology.
Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
Criminology BSc (Hons)/MSci | 3 years (BSc), 4 years (MSci) | £16,750 |
MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice | 13 months | £16,750 |
University of Leeds
The University of Leeds was established in 1874 initially as the Yorkshire College of Science. It received its Charter as an independent institution in 1904 by King Edward VII. It is now one of the largest universities in the UK. The university is a part of the Russell Group of research-intensive universities that are renowned worldwide for their research and teaching. It is divided into groups of seven faculties
- Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Cultures
- Faculty of Biological Sciences
- Faculty of Business (Leeds University Business School)
- Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences
- Faculty of Environment
- Faculty of Medicine and Health
- Faculty of Social Sciences
It is home to 39,800 students, many of whom are enrolled as international students from around the world. The university offers the following courses in criminology that will teach students an advanced understanding of crime and its control.
Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
Criminal Justice and Criminology BA | 3 years | £24,750 |
Criminal Justice and Criminology MSc | 1 year | £26,500 |
University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield is a renowned and prestigious institution of higher education located in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England. Established in 1905, it is known for its excellence in teaching, research, and innovation. Its academic programs cover a wide range of disciplines, including social sciences, arts, sciences, engineering, and business. The university’s campus includes state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, sports facilities, and student accommodation and is designed to support both academic and extracurricular activities. The University of Sheffield has a total of five faculties including Arts and Humanities, Engineering, Health, Science, and Social Sciences.
School of Law, Faculty of Social Sciences situated within the Faculty of Social Sciences offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in criminology.
Course Name | Duration | Annual Tuition Fees |
Criminology BA | 3 years | £21,000 |
International Criminology MA | 1 year | £21,400 |
Admission Requirements for Criminology Courses in the UK
Undergraduate Courses
High school education: Universities offering criminology courses in the UK require students to have a high school level education such as International Baccalaureate Diploma, A levels, international qualifications, etc., equivalent to the UK high school education.
English language proficiency: Submitting English language proficiency scores is mandatory for applicants whose first language is not English. For undergraduate courses, UK universities accept IELTS normally with a minimum overall grade of 6.5 (no individual band less than 5.5).
Other admission requirements: As a part of the admission process, international students are also required to have a study visa, a valid passport, reference letters, a statement of purpose, etc. They must also provide financial proof to cover their fees and living expenses in the UK.
Graduate Courses
Bachelor’s education: Criminology universities in the UK require students to have an undergraduate education to be admitted to graduate-level courses. Students must have a bachelor’s degree in criminology, law, criminal justice, or any other related field from an accredited university.
GRE/GMT: Most universities ask applicants without a UK undergraduate degree to submit GRE/GMAT test scores with their application.
English language proficiency: Submitting English language proficiency scores is compulsory for applicants from non-English-speaking countries. Students can prove their English language proficiency through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL. Universities usually require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5-7.0 or equivalent at graduate levels.
Other admission requirements: International students are also required to submit transcripts, a study visa, a valid passport, reference letters (at least two academic references), a statement of purpose, etc. Some programs may require an interview as part of the admission process.
Job Opportunities
Since criminology is a multi-disciplinary discipline, students can use what they learn in criminology in a wide range of jobs that call for analytical thinking and problem-solving. These skills are highly in demand nowadays. Some common fields where you can find a job with a degree in criminology are local/central government, private security services, social services, civil service, education, human resources, etc. Some typical job roles include
- Crime scene investigator
- Detective
- Police officer
- Prison officer
- Probation officer
- Social worker
- Youth worker
- Civil service administrator
- Paralegal
- Solicitor
The starter salary for a criminologist in the UK is £23,500 per year while a few years of experience can bag you a salary of up to £36,000 per year (source: National Careers Service, UK). Highly experienced criminologists in the UK earn above £40,000 annually (PayScale).
Conclusion
In this blog, we delved into the world of criminology education in the UK and highlighted some of the prominent institutions that excel in this field. These top institutions include Loughborough University, Durham University, Staffordshire University, the University of Leeds, and the University of Sheffield. Each of these universities offers a unique academic experience, renowned faculty, and exceptional resources for students interested in this dynamic and multi-disciplinary field. They offer courses at both undergraduate and graduate levels either as arts or science degrees.
The UK continues to attract international students and graduates offering various courses in criminology and numerous career opportunities in this sector. The skills and expertise gained after pursuing criminology courses in the UK establish a robust groundwork for thriving in the ever-changing global market. For more information on criminology studies in the UK, reach out to counseling experts at Gyanberry. You can either fill out this form or book a free video call.