University of Leicester

Criminology BSc

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

Crime and its impact are at the forefront of current political and social debate. We only have to check social media, switch on the television or pick up a newspaper to see headlines about crime and victimisation and to realise how relevant to everyday life the study of criminology has become. Our Criminology BSc enables you to explore the reality behind these headlines and examine a topic that is relevant, topical and has real, practical application in contemporary society.

Leicester ranks 6th in the UK for teaching Criminology (The Guardian University Guide 2025). We are home to some of the UK’s leading criminologists and as such, you will benefit from a focused and definitive education in the study of crime. Our strong performance in the National Student Survey since it began in 2005 reflects the popularity of the course among our students, as well as the dedication of the academic staff.

This course is designed to enable a smooth transition to higher education, providing you with full study skills support and a comprehensive research methods programme which will enable you to complete a research project of your own in your final year. Our degree offers flexibility and choice with a range of option modules for you to choose from, and you have the opportunity to take a Year Abroad between Years 2 and 3 of your degree. The curriculum includes a three-year careers and employability programme, giving you the opportunity to develop the skills you'll need for graduate jobs.

Job prospects are excellent, with 97% of our criminology students are employed (or studying for a Masters degree) six months after graduating. Our research expertise feeds directly into our teaching programme, providing innovative and exciting content, as well as keeping you abreast of current debates on crime and criminal justice. Our award-winning research has real impact in wider society, and it influences policy and practice within the UK and beyond.

Our research strengths include: Discover why

Key highlights

  • Optional Year Abroad between second and third years
  • Three-year careers and employability programme built into the curriculum
  • Comprehensive research methods training leading to a final-year research project
  • Wide range of option modules offering flexibility and choice
  • Teaching informed by research that influences criminal justice policy
  • Full study skills support to ease the transition to university

Entry requirements

  • A-level: BBB — A/AS-levels : BBB.
  • A-level: BBC — with EPQ; + EPQ at grade B
  • GCSE: 4/C — to include English
  • Access to HE Diploma: Pass — Pass Diploma with 45 credits at Level 3, including 24 credits at Distinction
  • International Baccalaureate: 28 — International Baccalaureate : Pass Diploma with 28 points overall.
  • BTEC: DDM — BTEC Nationals : Pass Diploma at DDM.
  • T-level: Merit — or above

Scholarships

  • Chancellor’s International Scholarship

    This scholarship, worth £3,000 per year, reflects the University’s commitment to attracting talented students from around the world.

    Up to £3,000

  • Choral Scholarships at Leicester Cathedral

    Leicester Cathedral offers three Choral Scholarships of £1,000 each year to University of Leicester students (undergraduates or postgraduates).

    Up to £1,000

  • Family Loyalty Discount

    10% discount on the tuition fee for each year of your course.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • International Citizens of Change Scholarship

    A £10,000 tuition fee discount will be awarded to 10 undergraduate international fee-paying students starting an undergraduate programme in September 2026 for each year of their course for up to three years.

    Up to £10,000

  • International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship

    This merit-based scholarship, worth £5,000 per year, is offered to international-fee-paying students applying for an undergraduate degree at the University of Leicester who achieve or exceed the academic grades outlined.

  • International Undergraduate Tuition Fee Waiver

  • Music Scholarship

    Music Scholarships of £500 are available for the academic year to cover the cost of music lessons for student musicians who are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any subject.

    Up to £500

  • Sanctuary Scholarships

    Each Sanctuary Scholarship consists of a tuition fee waiver, and a support package to be confirmed following assessment with our Welfare Service.

  • Sports Scholarships - The Talented Athlete Award

    Financial contribution on agreed items up to £500 (e.g., travel expenses, equipment, specialist coaching, nutritional advice).

Careers this course leads to

  • Police officer
  • Probation officer
  • Prison officer
  • Crime analyst
  • Youth justice worker
  • Victim support officer

Cost of study

UK/Home: £9,790; £10,050 | International: £20,200

Admission

Applications are made through AHZ at no cost. Share your transcripts, English test scores and personal statement, and your AHZ Counsellor will review your profile, submit your application to University of Leicester, and guide you through interview, offer, CAS and visa — right up to enrolment.

Ready to start?

Book a free consultation and we'll map your fastest route to a September 2026 place.

Apply Now
Download Free Guide