Criminology and Criminal Justice Keele University

Overview

The Criminology and Criminal Justice programme at Keele University provides a deep theoretical and practical exploration of how crime is defined, policed, and punished within modern society. Students engage with the latest criminological research to understand the systemic challenges facing the contemporary legal landscape. This degree is designed to foster critical thinking and ethical responsibility in future social justice practitioners.

Why Criminology and Criminal Justice at Keele University?

• Keele University is a pioneer in the field, having introduced the first undergraduate Criminology degree in the United Kingdom.
• The institution is ranked within the Global Top 300 for Social Sciences according to the Times Higher Education World University Subject Rankings.
• Students benefit from strong professional links with police services, probation agencies, and prisons, offering unique networking opportunities.
• The curriculum focuses on real-world application, with options to undertake a dedicated placement year or an international study year to broaden professional horizons.
• The university holds a Double Gold award in the Teaching Excellence Framework, ensuring a high standard of academic delivery and student support.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 18200 per year
• National fee: GBP 9535 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Year 1

• Crime and Criminal Justice
• Policing, Prevention and Punishment
• Murder, Death and Destruction
• Becoming a Social Scientist
• Social Order & Deviance

Year 2

• Challenges and Issues in Criminal Justice
• Social Science Research Methods and Data Analysis
• Social Science at Work
• Crime Across Borders
• Prisons, Punishment, Probation

Year 3

• Criminal Justice Research Project
• Engaged Social Science
• Policing the 21st Century
• Crime Prevention, Partnerships and Community Safety
• Harm, Justice and Power

Careers with Criminology and Criminal Justice

Graduates are well-equipped for diverse roles within the public and private sectors, particularly those focused on social change and community safety. The programme develops transferable skills in research, data analysis, and problem-solving that are highly valued by employers in the civil service and legal professions.

Common career destinations for graduates include:

• Police Officer
• Probation Officer
• Prison Officer
• Youth Worker
• Immigration Officer
• Social Worker
• Community Development Worker
• Local Government Officer

Keele University is ranked in the Top 15 in the UK for Graduate Employability, reflecting the strong professional preparation provided throughout the degree. Students are supported by a dedicated careers team offering guidance on CV development, mock interviews, and access to industry-specific careers fairs.