BSc Criminology at University of Bristol

Criminology at Bristol goes beyond the traditional study of crime and criminal justice. Our multidisciplinary programme explores how societies define harm, why some behaviours are criminalised while others are ignored, and how policy can shape not only a crime-free but also a harm-free society. Alongside core criminological topics, such as crime, policing, punishment and justice, you will examine a broader range of social harms that impact people's lives but may not be recognised in law.

Faculty: Faculty of Arts, Law and Social Sciences  |  Department: Criminology  |  Duration: 3 years full-time. 6 years part-time  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Intake: September 2027  |  Location: Bristol, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Your first year provides a strong foundation in criminology, introducing key concepts, theories and debates about how crime, harm and deviance are defined, represented and addressed in contemporary society. You will develop core analytical and research skills that prepare you for more specialised study. In your second and third years, you will have the flexibility to pursue your interests through a wide range of optional units that explore contemporary, real-world criminological and social harm issues.

Career pathways

Our criminology courses provide an ideal platform for anyone wishing to pursue a career in criminal justice or the legal system. There are a wide variety of career options for criminology graduates.

Official programme page