Course overview
Build degree-level knowledge through practical, career-focused study.
Examine crime, punishment, policing, prisons, victimisation, justice and social control through contemporary global criminological perspectives.
Course overview
This online degree examines the causes and consequences of crime and deviant behaviour alongside the operation of criminal justice. Global criminological theories are connected with psychology, sociology, media, cybercrime, prisons, victimisation and miscarriages of justice.
Study options
The course is delivered fully online with flexible access to teaching materials, digital learning activities and academic support. The published duration is three years or longer when studied part-time.
Professional development
Learning and assessment are designed to connect academic knowledge with current professional practice and transferable workplace skills.
Curriculum
Explore the complete Level 4, 5 and 6 module structure.
04Level 4
Level 4 · 120 credits
120 credits
Level 4
Level 4 · 120 credits
- Becoming a Criminologist20 credits
- A History of Crime and Punishment20 credits
- Crime, Media, and Culture20 credits
- Cybercrime: The Essentials20 credits
- Policing Priorities20 credits
- Working within the Criminal Justice System20 credits
05Level 5
Level 5 · 120 credits
120 credits
Level 5
Level 5 · 120 credits
- The Prison20 credits
- Youth Crime and Justice20 credits
- Defending the Realm20 credits
- Green Criminology20 credits
- Researching the Field20 credits
- Crimes of the Powerful20 credits
06Level 6
Level 6 · 120 credits
120 credits
Level 6
Level 6 · 120 credits
- Serial Killers20 credits
- Victimology20 credits
- Miscarriages of Justice20 credits
- Professional Practice: A Case Study20 credits
- Dissertation40 credits
Module availability and content may change as part of the provider’s ongoing academic review.
Assessment
Practical ways to show what you know.
Authentic assessment can include essays, reports, presentations, case studies, portfolios, professional-practice work and a 40-credit dissertation.
Entry requirements
Your route onto the course.
Academic entry
- Two subjects at GCE A Level or equivalent, plus passes at grade C or above in three subjects at GCSE level or equivalent.
- A recognised Access to Higher Education programme or an accepted equivalent may also be considered.
English language
- IELTS 6.0 overall with no component below 5.5, TOEFL iBT 80, or an accepted equivalent.
- Previous study in English may be accepted with suitable evidence of the medium of instruction.
Fees & funding
Understand the full cost.
Arden states that published fees relate to the intake on which the student enrols, rather than the application date.
Students who require a visa to study in the UK may be charged the fee associated with their home country.
Funding your study
This course is listed as eligible for Student Loans Company funding to help with tuition fees and other study expenses, subject to personal eligibility.
What you’ll achieve
Skills for ideas that move forward.
Analyse crime and punishment through global criminological theory.
Explore cybercrime, policing, prisons, green criminology and victimology.
Complete a 40-credit dissertation.
Career opportunities
Where this course can take you.
Career outcomes depend on your experience, further training and the requirements of each role.
Career directions
- Police and justice services
- Probation
- Prison service
- Community safety
- Social research
- Charities and NGOs
- Public policy
Frequently asked questions
Course questions.
Can I study this course online?
Yes. Arden currently lists a flexible online route for this degree.
Is UK-campus study available?
No UK-campus route is currently listed for this course; it is delivered online.
When can I start?
The current application options list October 2026. Exact availability should be confirmed before application.
Who awards the degree?
The degree is awarded by Arden University.