Sociology and Criminology with Foundation Year

Our BA Sociology and Criminology degree gives you the opportunity to combine the study of social life and social relations with the field of criminology. On this joint course you will:

• explore the ideas, social processes and social forces that give shape to the contemporary world

• investigate key criminology topics, methods and theories.

You will confront and seek to understand the most challenging social questions of our time by examining social relations and social change alongside the critical analysis of policies, institutions and practices related to crime and its control. Themes of study include migration, human rights, inequalities, policing, deportation, security, institutions, racial justice, and organised, corporate and state crime.

In the study of sociological and criminological theories and practices, you are encouraged to develop rigorous, critical and self-reflective thought. We will also equip you with a wealth of analytical skills that are transferable to a range of settings and career opportunities. To give you a rich, varied and interdisciplinary approach, as well as enabling you to pursue particular interests, we also offer you a wide range of option modules from disciplines including politics, psychosocial studies, geography, history, philosophy and criminology.

The BA Sociology and Criminology at Birkbeck is led by leading academics and develops your independence of thought in confronting the social realities of the contemporary period.

If you opt for the Foundation Year route, this will fully prepare you for undergraduate study. It is ideal if you are returning to study after a gap, or if you have not previously studied the relevant subjects, or if you didn't achieve the grades you need for a place on your chosen undergraduate degree.

This course has an evening timetable with lectures, seminars and classes taking place in the evening.

Highlights

• Birkbeck's innovative, creative and interdisciplinary courses will help you become a competent, critical and responsible student of the social world and the psychological and social forces that shape individuals.

• Follow your interests and choose to specialise in communication, geography, history, politics, psychosocial studies, social anthropology or social policy.

• Ours is a vibrant research culture, powered by a shared passion for learning and intellectual engagement among our academics and students.

Careers and employability

Graduates can pursue career paths in local or national government, education, social work or research. Possible professions include:

• charity officer

• journalist

• social researcher

• further education lecturer.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.