University of Leicester

Sociology with Criminology BA

University of LeicesterLeicester, Campus-based

Course overview

Who decides what counts as crime – and why does it matter? Our BA Sociology with Criminology empowers you to question the boundaries of justice, exploring how society, culture and power shape our understanding of right and wrong. This degree is designed for you if you are eager to confront real-world challenges and make a difference.

You will dive into the complexities of power, privilege, race, gender, and inequality—issues driving today’s social debates and central to our curriculum. Examine why certain behaviours are criminalised, how social justice is achieved, and the impact of education, health, and policy on everyday life. This course brings together two of Leicester’s most respected subject areas.

We have a long history as a pioneer in sociology in the UK, earning a distinguished reputation for teaching and research. Criminology at Leicester is ranked 6th in the UK (The Guardian University Guide 2025) and our experts are at the forefront of national and international conversations on crime and society. In your first year, you will gain a thorough grounding in both disciplines through core modules such as: As you progress, flexibility underpins your degree structure, allowing you to tailor your studies to your interests and career ambitions.

Choose from a wide range of specialist modules, including: From your first year, you will join a welcoming and supportive academic community, benefiting from outstanding facilities such as a specialist crime scene room, a dedicated building, vibrant social study spaces, and open office hours. You’ll have access to a helpful student support adviser, a weekly helpdesk, and a central contact point for guidance. Our enthusiastic academics are committed to your success, helping you develop research skills and critical thinking abilities that employers value—preparing you for a wide range of careers and empowering you to make a positive impact in society.

Other official national and international qualifications considered from

Key highlights

  • Criminology ranked 6th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2025)
  • Explores power, privilege, race, gender and inequality in justice
  • Core first-year modules ground you in both sociology and criminology
  • Flexible structure with a wide range of specialist modules
  • Specialist crime scene room and a dedicated building
  • Develops research skills and critical thinking valued by employers

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 with DDM.
  • T-level: Merit — or above, Humanities subjects p

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

  • Probation officer
  • Police officer
  • Youth justice worker
  • Social researcher
  • Victim support officer
  • Policy 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.

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