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An image to illustrate the Diploma of Higher Education in Criminology and Sociology
This diploma offers you the chance to study topical, and at times controversial, criminological and sociological subject matter. You'll be introduced to the social research process, exploring what social research is, how it’s conducted, and why it’s important, so you'll become curious, inspired, and empowered to think critically about the process of producing knowledge about the social world. You'll also have the choice between considering the impact of digital technology on individuals and society, or looking at the many ways criminologists seek to explain crime, victims of crime and the role of criminal justice.
W80
Diploma of Higher EducationUndergraduate240
Part-time – 4 years
Full-time – 2 yearsOctober 2026February 2027
Distance learning
Explore topical issues about contemporary social life and about crime, harm and criminal justice Learn to evaluate evidence critically and better understand criminological and sociological problems Examine the role of both theory and research in shaping knowledge about crime, justice and the wider social world Learn about social research methods Builds on the OU’s reputation for cutting-edge criminological and sociological teaching and research
A nationally recognised qualification in its own right, this diploma of higher education is also equivalent to the first two-thirds of the BA (Honours) Criminology and Sociology (R46).
W80
Diploma of Higher EducationUndergraduate240
Part-time – 4 years
Full-time – 2 yearsOctober 2026February 2027
Distance learning
This criminology and sociology diploma has two stages, each comprising 120 credits.
At Stage 1, you’ll begin with a broad introduction to the social sciences, giving you a strong grounding in sociological and social scientific ideas and approaches. You'll then be introduced to key concepts in and approaches to understanding crime, criminal justice, harm and victimisation.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You'll study the following:
Introduction to criminology (DD105)60Oct | Feb
You and your world: introducing the social sciences (D112)60Oct | Feb

At Stage 2, you'll choose between exploring ways in which criminology explains problems of crime, and investigating how the social world is being transformed by the internet and digital technology. You'll complete this stage with an introduction to the social research process.

ModulesCreditsStart month
You’ll choose one from:
Understanding criminology (DD212)60Oct | Feb
Understanding digital societies (DD218)60Oct
You'll then study the following:
Social research: crime, justice and society (DD215)60Oct

By studying this diploma, you’ll:
Explore crime and society – Study how crime, justice and social structures interact in different contexts. Examine key theories and debates – Analyse criminological and sociological perspectives on inequality, power and social change. Apply research skills – Use qualitative and quantitative methods to investigate issues and evaluate evidence. Develop communication and analytical abilities – Construct reasoned arguments, present findings clearly and work independently.
You’ll be supported by personal tutors, high-quality materials and online tutorials, with opportunities to connect theory to real-world social and criminal justice issues.
You’ll be awarded a Diploma of Higher Education in Criminology and Sociology upon successful completion.
You’ll also have the opportunity to attend a degree ceremony.
If you plan to work or study outside the UK, we recommend checking whether this qualification meets local requirements. Find out more about the international recognition of Open University qualifications.
As a student of The Open University, you should be aware of the content of the qualification-specific regulations below and the academic regulations that are available on our Student Policies and Regulations website.
Diploma of Higher Education in Criminology and Sociology
We regularly review our curriculum to keep it up to date. This means the structure, availability, and content of the course or modules may change. We’ll update this page as soon as possible if there are any changes. If you have already registered for this qualification, we’ll inform you in good time of any upcoming changes where practicable. For more details, see our Academic Regulations or contact us.
You can achieve this diploma in as little as two years and have a maximum of 12 years to complete it. Our module-by-module approach gives you the flexibility to complete your qualification at a pace that works best for you.
You can complete this diploma in two years by studying at a pace equivalent to full-time. That’s similar to a student at a campus-based university.
You'll study 120 credits a year You'll need 32–36 hours per week
You can complete this diploma in four years by studying part-time. That’s roughly half the rate of a student on a full-time course at a campus-based university.
You'll study 60 credits a year You'll need 16–18 hours per week
At the OU, flexibility and support go hand in hand. You’ll be in control of when and where you study, with clear deadlines to guide your progress. Whether you’re balancing work, family or other commitments, our approach helps you fit learning into your life. Students consistently praise the support we provide, and from the very start, you’ll be part of a vibrant OU learning community.
As you progress through your qualification, you’ll have access to a dedicated online study space, expert tutor guidance, optional live tutorials, and a wide range of resources to help you succeed. The sections below outline what you can expect.
Your module website will be a central hub for your learning, giving you easy access to:
a weekly study planner, along with course materials like reading, videos, recordings, and self-assessed activities module discussion forums and collaborative activities to connect with other learners a clear overview of assignments and due dates tools to book tutorials, access online tutorial rooms, and contact your tutor.
Discover how the OU’s module websites, course materials, and support tools help you study online with confidence.
Each module has a dedicated tutor who will guide you through your studies. They’ll provide feedback, help you find resources, mark your assignments and support your learning journey.
For extra support, you can attend optional live tutorials with your tutor. These are usually conducted online, and most are recorded so you can review them later.
See how OU tutors and tutorials help you build confidence, connect with others, and get the support you need to succeed in your studies.
Our assessments reinforce what you’ve learned and show your understanding. Assessment types vary by module and may include:
Computer-Marked Assignments – often multiple-choice questions completed online. Tutor-Marked Assignments – tasks like essays, questions, experiments, or other activities. You’ll submit them by a set deadline and receive detailed feedback from your tutor. End-of-Module Assessments – These are the final marked assignments for most modules. Modules with an end-of-module assessment usually don’t have an exam.
Throughout your studies, you’ll have access to a wide range of support services and be part of a vibrant learning community. Our subject-specific Student Support Teams can help with general queries and any updates to your OU account. You’ll also benefit from:
access to the OU’s extensive online library, filled with study resources the ability to use other university libraries across the UK and Ireland the online Help Centre, offering study tips and support free access to Microsoft Office 365 software IT support through our Computing Helpdesk the chance to connect with the OU community.
Discover the support network and learning tools you'll have access to throughout your studies.
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
If you’ve studied at university level before, you may be able to transfer the academic credit you've been awarded towards an OU qualification. This could save you time and money by reducing the modules you need to study.
It’s not just university study that can be considered; you can also transfer study from a wide range of professional or vocational qualifications, such as HNCs and HNDs.
You should apply to transfer credit before registering, at least four weeks before the registration closing date. We will need to know what you studied, where, and when, and you will need to provide evidence of your previous study.
For more details and to download an application form, visit our Credit Transfer website.

4 years
£4,088*
A diploma is worth 240 credits. The fee per year is based on studying one 60-credit module per year for 4 years.
£16,352*
Our qualifications cost less than equivalent-level qualifications offered at campus-based universities.
Compare the cost of studying at the OU with other campus-based universities in England.
Honours Degree
Honours Degree
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£29,370
£29,370
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£24,528
£24,528
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£4,842
£4,842
Diploma of Higher Education
Diploma of Higher Education
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£19,580
£19,580
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£16,352
£16,352
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£3,228
£3,228
Certificate of Higher Education
Certificate of Higher Education
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
£9,790
£9,790
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
£8,176
£8,176
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
£1,614
£1,614
Qualification
Qualification
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at campus university*
Total cost at The Open University**
Total cost at The Open University**
Saving with The Open University
Saving with The Open University
Honours Degree
Honours Degree
£29,370
£29,370
£24,528
£24,528
£4,842
£4,842
Diploma of Higher Education
Diploma of Higher Education
£19,580
£19,580
£16,352
£16,352
£3,228
£3,228
Certificate of Higher Education
Certificate of Higher Education
£9,790
£9,790
£8,176
£8,176
£1,614
£1,614
*Based on maximum chargeable fees for the 26/27 academic year.
**The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. In England, fees are subject to the part-time fee limit, as set out in section 5 of the University's Fee Rules.
Your course fees cover your tuition, assessment and study materials, but there are still a few additional costs that can come with studying. For this qualification, you'll need:
a computer and the internet to access our learning resources and to participate in online tutorials.
*The fee information provided here is valid for modules starting before 31 July 2027. Fees typically increase annually. In England, fees are subject to the part-time fee limit, as set out in section 5 of the University's Fee Rules.

Over 85% of our students in England fund their studies with a Tuition Fee Loan, meaning they pay nothing upfront.
Repay in monthly instalments while you study.
Pay for each module with a debit or credit card in one quick, simple payment.
More than 1 in 10 OU students are sponsored by their employer.
Combine your payment options to fund your studies the way you want.
If you’re a serving member of the British Armed Forces (or you’ve recently left), you may be eligible to use ELCs to cover up to 100% of your course fees.
You may be eligible for:
help with study-related costs like set books and internet access a free introductory Access module to build your confidence and skills funding to study an OU qualification for free from our Carers’ Scholarships Fund if you are, or have recently been, an unpaid carer a Care Experienced Scholarship to study an OU qualification for free if you're care experienced and aged 25 and under a Sanctuary Scholarship to study an OU qualification for free if you’ve been displaced from your homeland for political, economic, ethnic, environmental, or human rights pressures funding from our Scholarship for Black Students to study an OU qualification for free if you identify as being from a Black background
The Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) is a government grant to cover study support costs if you have a disability. It’s not means-tested, and there’s no age limit. Visit our Supporting students with disabilities page to find out more. If your disability is a result of being injured in, or due to, military service, you could be eligible for our Disabled Veterans’ Scholarship Fund.
This diploma will enable you to formulate and investigate sociological and criminological questions; build arguments; assess the methods used to generate evidence and research; and analyse, interpret and evaluate a wide range of information. You'll also learn how to communicate effectively with different audiences (e.g. through reports, policy briefs, blogs, and presentations), work with others, and give and receive peer feedback. You'll have the chance to devise and conduct your own project and will develop substantial skills in time management, self-reflection, self-motivation, and the ability to work independently.
A qualification in criminology and sociology can lead to employment across the public, private and voluntary sectors. Businesses, public sector organisations and educational institutions increasingly have to deal with social issues, and value the skills that criminology and sociology graduates can provide. Consequently, your diploma will be relevant to a wide range of professions, some of which are listed below. You can also use your diploma to pursue further study.
Please note, this diploma does not guarantee entry to the careers listed, which may require a degree and/or other specialist qualifications. However, it may help you gain those qualifications and enhance your prospects for progression once you are employed.
Once you register with us (and for up to three years after you finish your studies), you’ll have full access to our careers service for a wide range of information and advice. This includes online forums, website, interview simulation, vacancy service, as well as the option to email or speak to a careers adviser. Some areas of the careers service website are available for you to see now, including help with looking for and applying for jobs. You can also read more general information about how OU study enhances your career.
In the meantime, if you want to do some research around this qualification and where it might take you, we’ve put together a list of relevant job titles as a starting point. Some careers may require further study, training and/or work experience.
criminal justice worker – in prison, probation, police, victim and youth services voluntary or third sector work with communities, victims, vulnerable populations non-governmental organisations and aid workers social researcher community development worker social worker civil servant local government officer private risk and security worker human rights and other advocacy NGOs legal work secondary school teacher journalist trade union official university administrator.
Credit transfer: apply by 13/08/2026
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Credit transfer: apply by 13/08/2026
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