Crime and how to control crime are issues that both fascinate us and make us fearful. From the actions of petty thieves to the threats of terrorist organisations, crime affects us all to a lesser or greater extent. But why are some actions defined as criminal or anti-social, while others are not? And who defines them? As an OU student studying criminology you’ll explore a variety of questions and concerns around social order, security and surveillance and learn how governments try to tackle them. And through this study you’ll also be learning more about contemporary society, welfare policy and crime-control policy.
From a career perspective, you’ll find your studies will be of particular value if you’re involved in, or plan to work in the criminal justice system, health care, housing, local government, public services, social welfare, or the voluntary sector.
Degrees
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Combined Social Sciences
Develop a rich synthesis of knowledge and skills drawn from the breadth of social sciences subjects: criminology; economics; geography; politics; psychology; sociology; and social policy. -
Criminology and Psychological Studies
Our society is fascinated by crime and punishment. This degree will help you understand the issues behind the headlines. -
Social Policy and Criminology
Prepare for a career in welfare, government, public health or criminal justice agencies with this degree which examines the historical and contemporary development of social policy and criminology. -
Social Sciences with BA (Hons) with Social Policy
How does society work? And how does it change? Studying social science can change the way you look at the world forever. -
Open degree
The BA/BSc Open Degree is a qualification that gives you a huge choice in terms of subjects and modules that you study to make up your degree.
Diplomas of Higher Education
Certificates of Higher Education
Courses in Criminology
See the list of all our individual courses in Criminology.
Postgraduate options
If you already have a degree, you may want to see postgraduate courses and qualifications in Social Sciences.
Subjects at the OU
Undergraduate subjects
Your questions
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