10 Best Universities for Criminology in the UK

Are you considering a career in criminology and looking for the best universities for criminology in the UK? Look no further as we present the top 10 best universities for criminology in the UK for 2023.

Criminology is a fascinating and ever-evolving field that focuses on understanding the causes and consequences of crime, as well as how society responds to criminal behavior.

With so many options available, figuring out where to start your search can take time.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 best universities for criminology in the UK, their locations, costs, admission requirements, and other important details to help you decide where to study.

What is Criminology?
Reasons to Study Criminology?
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best UK Universities for Criminology Studies
How Long Does it take to Study Criminology at the Best UK Universities?
Top 10 Best Universities for Criminology in the UK
FAQs
Conclusion
References
Recommendations

What is Criminology?

Criminology is an interdisciplinary field that examines crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system.

It is a scientific field that uses various methods and theories to understand why people commit crimes, the social and cultural factors that contribute to criminal behavior, and the impacts of crime on society.

Criminology involves the study of criminal behavior patterns, the causes of crime, the effects of crime on society, and the social and cultural factors that contribute to criminal behavior.

This interdisciplinary field draws on insights from sociology, psychology, law, economics, anthropology, and other social sciences.

Criminologists use various research methods to study crime, including surveys, experiments, observations, and case studies. They also analyze crime statistics and data to identify trends and patterns in criminal behavior.

By understanding the patterns and causes of criminal behavior, criminologists can help develop crime prevention strategies and improve the criminal justice system’s effectiveness.

Criminology is a rapidly evolving field encompassing many topics and issues.

Some areas of study in criminology include

criminal profiling
victimology
juvenile delinquency
white-collar crime
organized crime
terrorism and
cybercrime.

Criminologists also examine the social and cultural factors contributing to criminal behavior, such as poverty, inequality, and social exclusion.

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Reasons to Study Criminology?

There are many reasons why studying criminology can be a rewarding and valuable experience.

Criminology is a fascinating field that provides students with a deep understanding of crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system.

Here are why you might consider studying criminology:

#1. Career Opportunities

Criminology is a rapidly growing field that provides many career opportunities.

Graduates with a degree in criminology can pursue careers in law enforcement, criminal justice, social work, public policy, research, and more.

The skills and knowledge gained through criminology are highly transferable and can be applied to various professions.

#2. Critical Thinking

Criminology courses emphasize critical thinking, problem-solving, and analysis. Students learn to evaluate evidence, assess arguments, and analyze data.

These skills are highly valued in many professions and are transferable to a wide range of fields.

Studying criminology provides students with an understanding of the cultural and social factors that contribute to criminal behavior.

You can use this knowledge to develop policies and programs that promote social justice and reduce crime.

#4. Personal Growth

Studying criminology can also be a personally enriching experience.

It gives students a deep understanding of complex social issues and helps them develop a critical perspective on the world around them.

Studying criminology can also help students develop empathy and compassion for others.

#5. Academic Diversity

Criminology is a field that draws on insights from sociology, psychology, law, economics, anthropology, and other social sciences.

Studying criminology provides students with a diverse and interdisciplinary academic experience that can broaden their perspectives and enrich their understanding of the world.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best UK Universities for Criminology Studies

Choosing the best university for criminology studies is an important decision that requires careful consideration.

There are many factors to consider when selecting a university, and here are some of the most important ones:

#1. Accreditation

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a university for criminology studies is accreditation.

Accreditation ensures that the university meets certain standards of quality and rigor in its programs.

Look for universities that are accredited by recognized accrediting bodies in your country.

#2. Program Specialization

Criminology is a broad field that covers a wide range of topics and issues.

Some universities offer specialized programs that focus on specific areas of criminology, such as criminal psychology, juvenile justice, or forensic science.

Consider your interests and career goals when choosing a program specialization.

#3. Faculty Expertise

The faculty’s quality and expertise are other important factors to consider when choosing a university for criminology studies.

Look for universities with experienced and qualified faculty members who are experts in their fields.

#4. Research Opportunities

Many universities offer student research opportunities, such as internships, practicums, or research assistantships.

These opportunities can provide valuable hands-on experience and help students develop skills and knowledge in their chosen fields.

#5. Location

The location of the university is another important factor to consider.

Look for universities in areas that offer opportunities for internships, research, and career development.

Consider factors such as the cost of living, transportation, and resource access.

#6. Student Support

Look for universities that offer comprehensive student support services, such as academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, and mental health services.

These services can help students succeed academically and personally.

#7. Cost

The cost of tuition and fees is also important to consider when choosing a university for criminology studies.

Look for universities that offer affordable tuition rates, scholarships, and financial aid options.

How Long Does it take to Study Criminology at the Best UK Universities?

Studying criminology at one of the best universities in the UK can take varying lengths of time, depending on the level of study and mode of study you choose.

For an undergraduate degree, studying criminology at one of the best universities in the UK can take three to four years, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time. Full-time students typically complete their degree in three years, while part-time students can take up to four years to complete their degree.

For a postgraduate degree, studying criminology at one of the best universities in the UK can take one to two years, depending on whether you study full-time or part-time. Full-time students typically complete their degree in one year, while part-time students can take up to two years to complete their degree.

Some universities may offer accelerated programs or allow students to take courses during the summer or winter breaks, which can shorten the time it takes to complete a degree. However, these programs may require students to handle a heavier workload and may only be suitable for some.

Top 10 Best Universities for Criminology in the UK

The UK is home to some of the world’s top universities, many offering outstanding criminology programs.

These ten universities are among the best in the UK for criminology studies. Each offers a comprehensive and well-regarded program that gives students a deep understanding of crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system.

Whether you are interested in research, policy, or practice, these universities offer a range of opportunities for students to develop their skills and knowledge in the field of criminology.

Here are the top 10 best universities for criminology in the UK:

University of Cambridge
University of Oxford
University of Edinburgh
University of Glasgow
King’s College London
University of Manchester
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
University of Bristol
University of Southampton
University of Essex

#1. University of Cambridge

Location: Cambridge, England

Tuition: £9,250 per year (UK and EU); £22,227 per year (International)

One of the best universities for criminology in the UK is the University of Cambridge.

Its criminology program is highly regarded for several reasons.

Firstly, it offers a broad and interdisciplinary approach to crime, including perspectives from sociology, psychology, law, and criminology. This approach allows students to deeply understand the complex social, economic, and political factors that contribute to crime.

Secondly, the program offers a range of specialized courses that allow students to explore specific areas of interest within the field of criminology, such as penology, criminal justice, and forensic psychology. This helps students to develop expertise in areas that align with their career interests and goals.

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#2. University of Oxford

Location: Oxford, England

Tuition: £9,250 per year (UK and EU); £25,740 per year (International)

The University of Oxford is one of the best universities in the UK for criminology.

Its criminology program is highly regarded for several reasons. Firstly, it offers a solid theoretical and research-based approach to the study of crime, which is grounded in various social science disciplines, including sociology, psychology, and law. This approach provides students with a solid foundation in the core concepts and theories of criminology, which they can apply to real-world issues and challenges.

Secondly, the program offers a range of opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning experiences, such as fieldwork, internships, and research projects. This helps students to develop practical skills and gain real-world experience in the field of criminology.

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#3. University of Edinburgh

Location: Edinburgh, Scotland

Tuition: £9,250 per year (UK and EU); £23,650 per year (International)

The University of Edinburgh is one of the best universities in the UK for criminology.

Its criminology program is highly regarded for several reasons.

Firstly, it offers a multidisciplinary approach to the study of crime, which draws on a range of social science disciplines, including sociology, psychology, law, and criminology. This approach provides students with a broad and comprehensive understanding of the complex factors contributing to crime and allows them to develop transferable skills.

Secondly, the program offers various courses that allow students to explore specific areas of interest within the field of criminology, such as forensic psychology, victimology, and criminal justice. This helps students to develop expertise in areas that align with their career interests and goals.

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#4. University of Glasgow

Location: Glasgow, Scotland

Tuition: £9,250 per year (UK and EU); £22,620 per year (International)

The University of Glasgow is one of the best universities for criminology in the UK.

Its criminology program is highly regarded for several reasons.

Secondly, the program offers a range of specialized courses that allow students to explore specific areas of interest within the field of criminology, such as forensic psychology, cybercrime, and criminal justice. This helps students to develop expertise in areas that align with their career interests and goals.

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#5. King’s College London

Location: London, UK

Tuition: £9,250 per year (UK and EU); £22,950 per year (International)

King’s College London is one of the best universities for criminology in the UK.

Its criminology program is one of the best in the UK for several reasons.

Firstly, it offers a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum that covers a broad range of topics within the field of criminology, including theories of crime, criminal law, forensic psychology, and criminal justice policy.

Secondly, the program strongly focuses on research, which enables students to develop their critical thinking and analytical skills and prepares them for academic, policy, and research careers. The university has a number of research centers and institutes dedicated to studying crime and criminal justice, including the International Centre for Comparative Criminological Research and the Institute of Criminology.

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#6. University of Manchester

Location: Manchester, England

Tuition: £9,250 per year (UK and EU); £19,500 per year (International)

The University of Manchester is one of the best universities for criminology in the UK for several reasons.

Firstly, the university offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum that covers a range of topics within the field of criminology, including the causes of crime, the criminal justice system, and the impact of crime on society.

Secondly, the university has a strong research focus, with many research centers and institutes dedicated to studying crime and criminal justice. Its criminology department has several leading scholars and researchers actively engaged in cutting-edge research.

Thirdly, the University of Manchester provides students various opportunities to engage with the criminal justice system, including internships, placements, and research projects with various criminal justice organizations. The university has strong links with a range of organizations, including the police, courts, and prisons, which enable students to gain valuable experience in the field of criminology.

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#7. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

Location: London, UK

Tuition: £9,250 per year (UK and EU); £22,000 per year (International)

LSE is one of the best universities for criminology in the UK for several reasons.

Secondly, LSE has a strong research focus, with several research centers and institutes dedicated to studying crime and criminal justice. Its criminology department has several leading scholars and researchers actively engaged in cutting-edge research.

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#8. University of Bristol

Location: Bristol, England

Tuition: £9,250 per year (UK and EU); £20,000 per year (International)

The University of Bristol is one of the best universities for criminology in the UK for several reasons. Firstly, the university offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum that covers a range of topics within the field of criminology, including the causes of crime, the criminal justice system, and the impact of crime on society.

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#9. University of Southampton

Location: Southampton, England

Tuition: £9,250 per year (UK and EU); £17,500 per year (International)

The University of Southampton is one of the best universities for criminology in the UK for several reasons. Firstly, the university offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in criminology, which leading experts teach in the field. Its criminology department has several leading scholars and researchers actively engaged in cutting-edge research.

Secondly, the University of Southampton strongly focuses on research, with several research centers and institutes dedicated to studying crime and criminal justice. The university’s criminology department is renowned for its research on cybercrime, organized crime, and human trafficking.

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#10. University of Essex

Location: Essex, England

Tuition: £9,250 per year (UK and EU); £18,500 per year (International)

The University of Essex is one of the best universities for criminology in the UK due to its excellent academic reputation.

World-renowned academics lead the university’s criminology program at the forefront of research and teaching in this area.

Students benefit from small class sizes and a supportive learning environment, which fosters critical thinking and independent learning.

The university also offers opportunities for students to gain practical experience through internships and work placements, which can enhance their employability after graduation.

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FAQs

What is criminology?

Criminology studies crime and criminal behavior, including its causes, consequences, and prevention.

How long does it take to study criminology at the best UK universities?

Studying criminology at one of the best universities in the UK can take three to four years for an undergraduate degree and one to two years for a postgraduate degree, depending on the mode of study you choose.

What kind of career opportunities can a degree in criminology lead to?

A degree in criminology can lead to a wide range of career opportunities, including working in law enforcement, the criminal justice system, social services, policy-making, research, and academia.

Is studying criminology a good choice for a career?

Studying criminology can be a good choice for a career, as it can lead to a wide range of rewarding and challenging opportunities in crime, justice, and social policy fields.

Conclusion

Studying criminology at one of the best universities in the UK can open doors to many exciting and challenging career opportunities. The universities in this article are some of the top institutions in the UK that offer excellent criminology programs.

Before choosing a university for your criminology studies, it’s crucial to consider factors such as the university’s reputation, course offerings, location, cost, and career opportunities. Doing so lets you make an informed decision that aligns with your career goals.

Whether it interests you to work in law enforcement, policy-making, research, or academia, a degree in criminology can provide you with all you need to succeed in a rewarding career.