Course Overview

If you are interested in studying crime and society, then the BA (Hons) Sociology and Criminology degree will give you a solid grounding in both disciplines. The course offers students the opportunity to study a wide range of sociological and criminological themes and topics across a broad sweep of modules, emphasizing the value of empirical and theoretical approaches.  This is achieved by exploring the changing nature of the social world and crime and addressing the social, political, historical, and individual forces behind such changes. 

The context for both subjects is local, national, and global perspectives, looking at their similarities and differences.  There is strong emphasis on research methods which will give you the skills necessary to carry out independent research for your future career, including your dissertation in the fourth year. 

In the first and second years, you will follow a traditional broad approach to the study of sociology and criminology. In years three and four, you will examine in-depth particular areas of sociology and criminology, allowing you to study specific topics and themes that reflect staff research specialisms (including cybercrime and the networked society). Each year, you will build on your analytical and research abilities through the core research methods modules. 

The degree also offers the opportunity to study other Humanities subjects such as history, literature, archaeology, politics, and theology. 

General Eligibility

• 3 Scottish Highers at grade BBC or above, or

• 2 A levels at grade BC or above

• At least two should be from the list of relevant academic subjects

• Applicants with other relevant qualifications or experience will be considered on an individual basis

• This is a Category 2 PVG course: PVG Scheme membership is required for specific optional modules/unit(s), where there is guaranteed contact with vulnerable groups in optional module/unit(s), but an alternative pathway exists to achieve target qualification.

Advanced entry to year two:

• HNC Social Sciences (12 SQA credits) with 3 additional SQA credits at level 7 which is equivalent to 120 degree credit points, and at least grade C in the Graded Unit will be considered for direct entry to year two

Part Time Work Details

20 hours work permit for international students

Language Requirement

• Applicants must have an IELTS score- 6.0 or equivalent

  English (PTE) Academic-58 average with 51 in each component

  TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT4-Min 80 or above with min 18 in each section