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Criminology courses

Interested in exploring cutting edge, topical and often controversial issues about crime and justice? Whether you’re looking to develop your knowledge of criminology for your career or for purely personal interest, our courses have much to offer you. Choose below from our range of qualifications.

Police or prison worker escorts prisoner in handcuffs

CriminologyDegrees 

Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Stage 3120 credits
Total of 360 credits 

How long will it take?

Part time: 16–18 hours per week for 6 years
Full time: 32–36 hours per week for 3 years


CriminologyDiplomas 

Stage 1120 credits
Stage 2120 credits
Total of 240 credits 

How long will it take?

Part-time: 16–18 hours per week for 4 years
Full-time: 32–36 hours per week for 2 years


CriminologyCertificates 

Stage 1120 credits
Total of 120 credits 

How long will it take?

Part-time: 16–18 hours per week for 2 years
Full-time: 32–36 hours per week for 1 year

Why study Criminology with The Open University?

Criminology at the OU is recognised nationally and internationally for its distinctive approach to teaching and research.

OU criminology study can offer you:

  • Access to highly regarded written, broadcast and audio-visual study materials.
  • The flexibility to explore criminological topics of your own interest in depth.
  • The choice of focusing on criminology or combined with either law, psychology or social science. 

Careers in Criminology

Studying for an Open University qualification in criminology will enable you to formulate and investigate criminological questions. You’ll learn to summarise and explain empirical information and research findings. These are skills that will be relevant to a wide range of career paths beyond those directly relating to criminology.

Our range of courses in criminology can help you progress your career as a:

  • Criminal Justice worker – in prison, probation, police, victim and youth services
  • Voluntary/Third Sector worker
  • Local Government worker
  • Social researcher

Looking for something other than a qualification?

The majority of our modules can be studied by themselves, on a stand-alone basis. If you later choose to work towards a qualification, you may be able to count your study towards it.

See our full list of Criminology modules

All Criminology courses

Browse all the Criminology courses we offer – certificates, diplomas and degrees.

See our full list of Criminology courses