Backwell School Sixth Form Course Guide

Criminology (Level 3 Applied Diploma, WJEC)

Criminology is the scientific study of crime, including what it is and its causes. The course focuses on definitions of crime, criminal justice and prosecution services and criminal behaviour; on individual, social and natural levels, and how it can be managed, controlled and prevented. This course will enable students to use theories of criminality to analyse criminal situations and make recommendations for policy. Students also develop the knowledge and skills to research policy in practice, assess campaigns for changes in awareness and examine information to review verdicts in criminal cases. Entry Requirements: General entry requirements and Grade 4 in Maths Course content

Units

% When?

Content

25% Internal exam

Year 12

The focus of the unit is on unreported crime and the consequences of such crimes. The unit will also introduce media representation of crime and how campaigns for change can raise awareness of unreported crimes in society.

Unit 1 Changing Awareness of Crime Unit 2 Criminological Theories Unit 3 Crime Scene to Courtroom

25% Year 12

This unit focuses on why people commit crime and includes a study of a range of theories of criminality.

25% Internal Exam

Year 13

The focus of Unit 3 is the Criminal Justice System from the identification of the crime through to the verdict. This unit will allow candidates to gain the understanding and skills to be able to examine the validity of verdicts given in criminal cases

Unit 4 Crime and Punishment

25% Internal Exams

Year 13

This unit focuses on applying students’ understanding of theories and processes of bringing the accused to court, as well as evaluating the effectiveness of social control.

Students will receive an A* - U in each unit and will need to pass every unit to complete the diploma. Career Links

Studying Criminology can help students to progress on to further study or work in many areas but particularly relevant career paths that this could lead towards would include; Legal profession, Law enforcement, Crime prevention, Forensics, Prison service, Charities, Victim support, Youth & social work, Probation services, Academia For more information please contact Miss Haywood

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