BSc (Hons) Criminology, Policing and Investigation at Birmingham City University

Crime is complex, evolving, and deeply connected to the social and technological world around us. Our degree in Criminology, Policing and Investigation allows you to explore that complexity by combining cutting-edge criminological theory with hands-on insights into policing and investigative practice.

Faculty: Faculty of Business, Law and Social Sciences  |  Department: Sociology and Criminology  |  Duration: 3 years full-time  |  Study mode: full-time (optional professional placement)  |  Intake: September 2027  |  Location: Birmingham, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

We combine academic study with practical insight into policing and investigation, allowing you to learn about the structure and function of police organisations, investigative techniques, forensic approaches, and the legal frameworks that underpin criminal justice processes. Alongside this, we encourage you to reflect critically on issues such as policing practice, accountability, ethics, legitimacy, and the impact of crime control policies on diverse communities. Modules include Introduction to Criminological Theory, Blue Line: Contemporary Challenges in Policing, Crime, Punishment and Society, The Criminal Justice System, Applied Research Methods in Criminology, Security, Society and Justice, Criminal Justice and Policing in the Machine Age (AI), Issues in Criminal Investigation.

Career pathways

This course is suitable if you wish to embark on a criminal justice-related career, including jobs in the police, revenue and customs, probation, youth justice, community safety and the prison service, as well as the voluntary sector. It’s also suitable for serving police officers and civilian support staff, customs officers, prison officers and those working in the Immigration and Naturalisation Service.

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