Criminology and Sociology with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

Sheffield Hallam University

Please check the Sheffield Hallam University website for the latest information.

Course summary:

• Prepare for the degree with an extra foundation year at the start.
• Study criminal and social justice principles, rules and practices from contemporary academic and practical perspectives.
• Learn analytical and research skills for understanding the nature of crime, society and the factors shaping social change.
• Learn the real-life applications of criminological and sociological theory to experiences and behaviours.
• Tailor your studies to reflect specialist interests, which enhances independent thinking and creativity.

Benefit from an academically rigorous and career-enhancing education with a joint degree which brings together two related subject areas. You will gain a broad multi-disciplinary understanding of the real-life applications of criminology and sociology to contemporary social issues, and establish personal and transferable skills perfect for enhancing employability. Once you have completed the foundation year, you progress onto the undergraduate degree of BA (Hons) Criminology and Sociology.

How you learn:

All our courses are designed around a set of key principles based on engaging you with the world, collaborating with others, challenging you to think in new ways, and providing you with a supportive environment in which you can thrive.

The course is suitable if you don't meet the entry requirements for our BA (Hons) Criminology and Sociology course. You share the first year and first semester with Law, Criminology, Sociology, Politics and Psychology foundation students. In the second semester you will complete a module specific to criminology which will prepare you for your transition to your subject specific degree of Criminology and Sociology.

We have highly motivated, knowledgeable and creative staff across the department who bring a breadth and depth of skills and knowledge from the criminal justice and social sector and the broader academic community. This enables high quality learning of the core aspects of the two subject areas, as well as a range of specialist topics and areas of study.

You learn through:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Projects
• Peer learning
• Placement activity
• Visits
• Guest lectures
• Simulation
• Case study analysis
• Online learning resources

Applied learning - Work placements

We have excellent links with the local, regional and national criminal justice sector organisations. Local organisations support our provision and provide activities ranging from placements, work experience opportunities, guest lectures and advice on career progression.

You will have the opportunity, should you choose, to arrange a year-long placement in between your third and fourth years. This gives you a real-world experience to prepare you for your future career.

International opportunities

You will have the opportunity to study abroad for the second semester of your third year, at institutions, which could include Australia, USA or Canada with the possibility of funding through the Erasmus programme (until 2023) or the Turing Scheme. You’ll choose which modules you study, and get the chance to learn about different cultures and learning styles, as well as travelling to new places and meeting new people.

Networking opportunities

The Helena Kennedy Centre ensures that teaching focuses directly and indirectly on ethical and social justice issues related to the social exclusion/inclusion of a range of vulnerable groups and on promoting social access to all available community resources. You are provided with career-related support from department specialists who help with access to graduate opportunities.