Keeles BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice combines a theoretical understanding of crime with the practical application to criminal justice systems. You will explore courts and prisons, policing and probation and the wider range of agencies and institutions that aim to tackle crime, its causes and impacts. You will delve into the study of crime by identifying what is considered a crime, how crime is defined by the law and public opinion, and how the criminal justice system operates within society. This will enable you to build advanced skills, in preparation for an exciting career in the criminal justice field.

As a Criminology and Criminal Justice student at Keele, you will gain experience that allows you to apply your knowledge and skills to real-world scenarios relating to crime and social justice. Our connections with professional industry partners including the police, probation services, and prisons provide valuable insights and opportunities to hear from, and network with, those working in criminal justice related fields. There are also opportunities for our students to gain work experience through placements.

This programme is designed to equip you with transferable skills to make a positive social impact as an independent scholar and critical thinker, working effectively with peers and practitioners on collaborative group projects. You will build a personal sense of social and ethical responsibility and the skills to strive for, and enact, social change.

At Keele, you will have a variety of opportunities to enhance your academic and professional development. Whether you wish to broaden your horizons by studying abroad, learn a foreign language, or complete a work placement year for industry experience, you can tailor your degree programme based on your future career aspirations.

Foundation Year

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

Work Placement

During your studies, you will have the opportunity to opt for a Work Placement Year in the School of Social Sciences between Year 2 and Year 3, or to take a Work Placement Module.

This will allow you to apply your knowledge and practical skills in a workplace environment, enabling you to build key skills in communication, teamwork and project management. You will be able to demonstrate your abilities and creative thinking, working with fellow professionals as well as independently.

Study Abroad

On this programme, you will have the exciting opportunity to study for a semester or year abroad at a partner university. Our Global Opportunities team will support you through the process, ensuring you are able to get the most out of your international experience.

Choosing to study abroad can enhance your career prospects and help in your employment search to stand out from the crowd. Your experience overseas will broaden your perspectives and approach to learning, enabling you to expand your skillset and mindset towards both personal and professional opportunities.

Your future career

As a Keele graduate, you will attain various professional attributes that will enhance your career prospects, enabling you to apply your practical research skills with an understanding of crime and criminal justice systems. Your expertise as a critical thinker and problem-solver will enable you to hit the ground running, applying your knowledge in your desired role, across diverse social disciplines such youth justice, policing, probation and criminal justice.