Certificate in Introduction to Principles of Criminology L2

Course overview

An understanding of criminology is relevant to many job roles within the criminal justice sector, social and probation work and sociology and psychology.

Criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminals. It is a multi-disciplinary approach that draws together methods and perspectives from a range of social sciences, including sociology and psychology. There are therefore some areas of commonality with these subjects; however, none of these subjects alone provides the same insights as are to be gained from the multi-disciplinary approach of criminology.

The Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Principles of Criminology is designed to provide learners with an effective experience in developing study skills and the initial stages of learning about the discipline in terms of the concepts, theories and perspectives which characterise criminology. It is designed as an introduction to the study of criminology, and as such it does not provide, on its own, progression to work in criminology or a career as a criminologist or in any other forensic service(s).

Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Principals of Criminology:

Module 1 – Aspects of Crime (Internal Assessment)

Module 2 - Criminological Justice System, Crime & Social Groups (Internal Assessment)

Course requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course however due to the assessment method being a portfolio of written evidence, a good standard of written English is a requirement. Any applicants without formal qualifications on entry would complete an initial written assessment task in order to gauge suitability for the course. Life experience will also be taken into account when considering applications from mature students. A genuine interest in the subject is essential and an interview will take place.

What will I do?

The Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Principles of Criminology is taught across 2 mornings per week (Monday & Friday). You may be required to attend additional days as and when required but you will receive advance warning if this is the case.

What will it give me?

Successful completion of this course will give you the Ascentis Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Principals of Criminology.

Materials needed

Students will need all basic stationery items for studying. There may be some cost implications for some of the trips across the period of study, however this will be discussed for individual visits with students at the time.

It is also mandatory to purchase a uniform consisting of a navy hoody, polo shirt and jacket (help towards this will be available for some learners); tutors will organise uniforms once courses commence.

You will also need a leaver arch file, a set of dividers and plastic wallets.

What can I do when I finish?

Following the period of study and completion of the Level 2 Certificate in Introduction to Principals of Criminology, you have the opportunity to progress onto the Level 3 Applied Certificate (one year) and Level 3 Diploma (two years) in Criminology study programme. Following the second year of Level 3 study, students who achieve high enough grades and UCAS points will be able to apply for Higher Education courses of study at the College or via UCAS to various universities. You may also choose to apply for employment or an apprenticeship opportunity following your studies.

What next?

If you gain suitable grades you may progress onto the Level 3 Diploma in Criminology which involves either one (Level 3 Certificate) or two (Level 3 Diploma) more years of study at Level 3 and by the end of that second year, learners would have the equivalent of 2 x A-Levels, which may then allow you to progress onto Higher Education at College on the BA (Hons) Degree in Sociology & Criminology* (subject to approval) or other Higher Education courses such as Foundation or Honours Degrees in Criminology, Law, Leadership and Management at University, or employment in one of the Armed or Emergency Services.