Key Facts

A Level + Criminology Pathway

A Level + Criminology Pathway

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The criminology pathway investigates how the criminal justice systems works, and includes analysing different types of crime, investigation of criminal theories and looking at how these theories inform policy development. There is a large focus on planning campaigns for change, relating to crime. As part of this, students will be expected to look at how media can be used, and resulting in students designing a campaign for change.

As part of this qualification you will study WJEC Extended Certificate in Applied Criminology, and then you will have a choice to create your own bespoke pathway.

You can choose from either:

BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Law OR BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Human Biology

AND a choice between

A level English Language & Literature or A Level Sociology

These subjects allow you to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding to evaluate, consider and debate about issues.

You will be supported throughout your time with us to realise your potential with individual and expert support. We provide the opportunity for you to visit local universities and participate in work with them. Our uniquely planned timetable allows you to undertake work experience placements, and meet professionals from the police and law. You will see how your subjects link to your career plans through visits to local law courts and prisons, the National Crime Museum, the Houses of Parliament, and even the United Nations assembly.

  • Entry Requirements


    All the A Levels require general criteria with a minimum of; 5 x GCSEs at 6 or above, including a Grade 6 in Mathematics and English Language.

  • Course Content


    Extended Certificate in Applied Criminology - the criminology pathway investigates how the criminal justice systems works, and includes analysing different types of crime, investigation of criminal theories and looking at how these theories inform policy development. There is a large focus on planning campaigns for change, relating to crime. As part of this, students will be expected to look at how media can be used, and resulting in students designing a campaign for change.

    Extended Certificate in Applied Psychology - you will learn about theories of psychology, what makes us think and behave the way we do, and how we can research this. The course is one year (equivalent to half an A-level) and has UCAS point attached to it. It is suitable to study alongside other A-level subjects.

    Extended Certificate in applied Law - this course offers an exciting alternative to A Level Law with different modes of assessment by way of assignments and controlled assessments. Students will study key aspects of the English legal system plus areas of Criminal and Civil law.

    The Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Certificate in Applied Human Biology is for students wanting to continue their education through applied learning, and who aim to progress to higher education and ultimately to employment, possibly in the health and health science sectors. The qualification provides the knowledge, understanding and skills that will prepare you for further study or training. Everyone taking this qualification will study two mandatory units, covering the following content areas: Unit 1: Principles of Applied Human Biology, Unit 2: Microorganisms and Infectious Diseases. The mandatory content allows you to concentrate on the development of your knowledge and understanding, as well as essential practical and research skills relevant in applied human biology and health science areas, over an extended period.

  • Progression Next Steps


    The majority of our students progress to universities where they study a wide variety of degrees.

    For those students not wishing to progress to university, comprehensive support is provided to help them find alternatives such as employment or Apprenticeships.

    There are lots of opportunities available to you to progress across the South Thames Colleges Group and into the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers and education advisers who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    A range of enrichment opportunities including visits and practical hands on, work-related experiences is available.

  • Course Structure


    As part of this qualification you will study WJEC Extended Certificate in Applied Criminology, and then you will have a choice to create your own bespoke pathway.

    You can choose from either the

    BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Law or BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Human Biology

    AND a choice between

    A level English Language & Literature or A Level Sociology:

    English Language and Literature Over the course of two years, you will study: modern poetry as well as older poetry such as Chaucer's The Wife of Bath; you will learn to compare the writing styles and themes of two novels, Frankenstein by Mary Shelley and The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood; you will study drama: Twelfth Night by Shakespeare and A Streetcar Named Desire by Tennessee Williams; finally you will study a specialist subject for the coursework in which you will compare two texts, which may be from any genre.

    Sociology Over the 2 years you will study a range of core topics, including education, methods in context, research methods. You will then students some of the following topics: culture and identity, families and households, health, work, poverty and welfare.