Our programme covers a range of criminological and sociological theories that help to define crime, explore contemporary issues in society, and allows you to apply your learning to real world scenarios. With connections to professional industry partners including the police, probation services, and prisons, you will gain valuable insights and opportunities to hear from, and network with, those working in criminal justice related fields.

You will investigate crime and the criminal justice system whilst exploring a range of contemporary social issues, building a global perspective of everyday life. From cultural competence to social intelligence, you will develop advanced skills through the analysis of contemporary challenges, strengthening your expertise as a changemaker for future generations.

Our modern curriculum prepares you for a career at the forefront of tackling ongoing issues in society. It has been carefully curated to ensure that you get an understanding of well established and emerging theories, concepts and methodologies used in contemporary practice. You will get under the skin of some of the contemporary issues that we face in society today such as gender, migration and belonging, the development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the ever-present challenges around climate change, to name but a few.

Throughout the programme, you will develop 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.

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.

Work placement year

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

International Year

Enhance your career prospects with an International Year at one of our partner institutions. This opportunity between 2nd and 3rd year can help in your employment search to stand out from the crowd and broaden your horizons, potentially working across the globe. You will develop a new way of understanding the world and gain insight into various perspectives whilst learning in a different environment, enhancing your university experience.

On successful completion of all modules across the year, you will graduate with an enhanced degree title. This can be highly beneficial for your career prospects and through experiencing different cultures, you will not only grow as an individual, but you will also strengthen your knowledge and interests within society. You can find more information here.

Your future career

With expertise in Criminology and Sociology, you will become equipped as a changemaker for a range of careers across disciplines such as policing, probation, criminal justice, social care and youth justice. You will build an array of transferable skills that can be applied to different roles and responsibilities, having a greater understanding and social awareness of different environments, people and social structures. These include working effectively with others, adaptability in the workplace, strong communication and problem-solving skills.