Social Sciences Level 3

Criminology is the study of crime and criminal behaviour, informed by principles of sociology and other non-legal fields, including psychology, economics, statistics, and anthropology.

During this course you will investigate how crime reporting affects the public perception of criminality and how campaigns are used to elicit change. You will also explore social constructions of criminality and investigate the theories of criminality.

In the second year, you will explore the processes of criminal investigations for prosecution of suspects and be able to review criminal cases. You will also explore the criminal justice system in England and Wales and gain an understanding of the role of punishment in a criminal justice system.

Psychology is the scientific study of the human mind and behaviour. During this course you will explore four key approaches in psychology – social, cognitive, learning, and biological – and apply these approaches to issues relevant to contemporary society.

You will develop knowledge, understanding and skills in the scientific process and in psychological research methodology through their own psychological research project. In the second year you will explore psychological approaches and theories related to lifestyle choices, unhealthy behaviours, and behavioural change, linking them to their specific contexts.

You will also explore the different theories used to explain criminal behaviour and the application of criminal and forensic psychology in the criminal justice system.

Applied Human Biology is the scientific study of human beings and populations from a biological point of view. During this course, you will explore the biological principles that underpin human biology while investigating the effect of antimicrobial agents on the growth of microorganisms, by selecting and applying knowledge of microorganisms and infectious diseases. 

As you progress into the second year of the programme, you will further develop you understanding of human biology and skills in researching and evaluating the impact of health issues, initiatives, and scientific reporting. You will explore the muscular, skeletal, endocrine, and nervous systems, their associated disorders, and the role of homeostasis in controlling and coordinating the body systems.

Finally, you will explore biological molecules and pathways, and their relevance to diseases, disorders, treatments, and therapies.

• 5 GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English Language and Maths

If you successfully complete this course, you will receive a Level 3 in Criminology, Psychology and Applied Human Biology.

Criminology

• Changing Awareness of Crime
• Criminological Theories
• Crime Scene to Courtroom
• Crime and Punishment

Psychology

• Psychological Approaches and Applications
• Conducting Psychological Research
• Health Psychology
• Criminal and Forensic Psychology

Applied Human Biology

• Principles of Applied Human Biology
• Practical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases
• Human Biology and Health Issues
• Functional Physiology
• Diseases, Disorders, Treatments and Therapies

Please note, modules are subject to change.

• Internal and external assessed units

• Subject specific regional and national trips and visits
• Opportunities for fully funded international trips to the Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Malta and Cyprus
• Various industry guest speakers including criminal psychologists and psychotherapy specialists
• Science masterclasses
• Trips to Universities including Edge Hill, University of Liverpool and University of Manchester
• University and industry placement preparation
• Study in our state-of-the-art laboratory in The School of Science

This qualification is primarily designed to support your progression to employment after further study at university. However, it also supports you if you choose to progress directly to employment, as the transferable knowledge and skills gained will give you an advantage when applying for a range of industry training programmes and/or Higher Apprenticeships.

Our students go onto University to study:

• BSc Criminology
• BSc Psychology
• BA Social Work
• BSc Forensic Science
• BSc Clinical Psychology

If you are 16-18 years old, you do not have to pay course tuition fees.*

If you need information on any financial support that may be available to you with fees or study costs on this course, please contact Student Services who can offer advice and assistance on accessing any financial support that may be available.

*Exam and registration fees will be paid by the college. This is subject to satisfactory attendance and course completion