Criminology and Sociology (with a Foundation Year) (Hons) St Mary's University, Twickenham, London

Overview

The Criminology and Sociology (with a Foundation Year) (Hons) at St Mary's University, Twickenham, London offers a comprehensive exploration of crime, punishment, and the structures of modern society. This four-year programme is designed to challenge perspectives and instigate social change by examining classical and emerging radical thought. Students engage with pressing global issues while developing the academic foundations necessary for higher education through an integrated foundation year.

The curriculum investigates diverse topics such as modern slavery, terrorism, migration, and human rights. By combining theoretical study with practical insights, the programme ensures that students understand the complexities of policing, race, and cyber-crime in a contemporary context.

Why Criminology and Sociology (with a Foundation Year) (Hons) at St Mary's University, Twickenham, London?

Students benefit from learning on a beautiful and historic London campus, where academics currently influencing government policy lead the modules. The university provides a hands-on learning environment where students can participate in field trips, workshops, and guest speaker events. These sessions cover critical research areas such as human trafficking, organised crime, and youth violence, bringing the subject matter to life beyond the classroom.

Professional development is a core component of the experience, with opportunities to complete placements and voluntary work in schools or the charitable sector. This allows students to build a professional network and gain practical experience before graduation. Furthermore, the dedicated Student Success Team offers invaluable support, helping students navigate their studies while maintaining a focus on their personal development and future career path.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 17100 per year
• National fee: GBP 9535 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to build confidence and expertise, starting with a foundation year that establishes essential academic skills. Modules may include:

Foundation Year

• Personal Learning Competencies
• Taking a Professional Approach
• Rights and Responsibilities
• Thinking Critically, Creatively and Ethically
• Individual Project

Year 1

• Investigating the Criminal Justice System
• Social Theory and Social Divisions
• Debates in Crime and Society
• Crime and Human Rights
• Social Institutions and Everyday Life
• Research Methods

Year 2 and 3

• Punishment and Society
• Modernity and Global Societies
• Race, Representation, and Multiculturalism
• Criminalising Social Problems
• Terrorism and Political Violence
• Psychopathology and Deviant Behaviour
• Criminology: New Perspectives
• Modern Slavery
• Representations of Crime in the Media

Careers with Criminology and Sociology (with a Foundation Year) (Hons)

Graduates are equipped with essential transferable skills, including critical thinking, complex communication, and high attention to detail. These attributes are highly valued across various sectors dedicated to social and criminal justice. The university's Career Services provide ongoing impartial advice to help students transition into professional roles following their studies.

Common career destinations for graduates include roles within government departments, policy development, and public administration. Many alumni find rewarding opportunities working with campaign groups, the prison service, youth justice organisations, or agencies focused on migration and victim support. The programme also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue further research or specialised roles in the charitable sector.