University of Bristol Campus
Bachelor of Science
On Campus
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University of Bristol
Bristol
United Kingdom

Social Policy with Criminology

About

The Social Policy with Criminology program at the University of Bristol is a three-year Bachelor of Science (BSc) that explores the intersections between social policy and criminology. This program covers key topics such as criminal justice systems, social inequality, crime prevention, and the impact of social policies on crime and law enforcement. Students will gain an understanding of the social, legal, and political contexts of crime and the development of policies aimed at addressing criminal behavior.

The University of Bristol offers a dynamic learning environment, where students will engage with real-world case studies, work on projects, and collaborate with criminal justice professionals. Graduates will be well-prepared for careers in criminal justice, social work, law enforcement, or policy research, where they can contribute to the development of effective social policies and crime prevention strategies.

Key information

Duration
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Tuition fee
$33,052.00/year
Start dates & application deadlines
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More details
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Key Facts

Program Title: Bachelor of Science in Social Policy with Criminology
Degree Type: Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Field of Study: International Development
Duration: 3 Years
Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
Start Date: 14 January 2026
Location: University of Bristol, United Kingdom
Language of Instruction: English

Program Structure

Year 1 – Foundations of Social Policy and Criminology

  • Introduction to Social Policy and Welfare Systems
  • Introduction to Criminology and Criminal Justice
  • Sociology and Social Theory
  • Social Inequality and Social Justice
  • Research Methods in Social Policy and Criminology
  • Politics and Governance in Social Policy

Year 2 – Core Social Policy and Criminological Theory

  • Crime, Deviance, and Social Control
  • Comparative Social Policy: Global Perspectives
  • Crime and Punishment: Legal and Ethical Issues
  • Victimology and Crime Prevention
  • Policing and the Criminal Justice System
  • Advanced Research Methods in Criminology and Social Policy

Year 3 – Advanced Social Policy, Criminology, and Final Project

  • Social Policy and Crime in a Global Context
  • Social Work, Crime, and Rehabilitation
  • Political Economy of Crime and Justice
  • International Approaches to Social Policy and Criminology
  • Independent Research Project in Social Policy with Criminology

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Social Policy with Criminology program are well-prepared for careers in social justice, criminal justice, policy analysis, and social services. Career opportunities include roles such as social policy analyst, criminologist, crime prevention specialist, criminal justice researcher, social worker, and policy advisor. Graduates can work in government agencies, NGOs, police forces, criminal justice organizations, rehabilitation centers, and policy think tanks. The program also provides a strong foundation for those wishing to pursue postgraduate studies in criminology, social policy, or social work.

Why Choose This Program

The Social Policy with Criminology program offers a unique combination of social policy theory and criminological practice, equipping graduates with the tools to address both social inequality and criminal justice issues. The University of Bristol’s interdisciplinary approach, focusing on criminological theory and social policy in a global context, ensures that students gain a well-rounded understanding of crime, social justice, and welfare systems. The program’s emphasis on research methods, crime prevention, and rehabilitation strategies prepares students to tackle real-world challenges in the criminal justice system and social policy advocacy. Graduates are equipped to influence policy decisions, contribute to criminal justice reform, and promote social change globally.

Contact Information

For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)117 928 9000
Email: admissions@bristol.ac.uk
Address: University of Bristol, Senate House, Tyndall Avenue, Bristol BS8 1TH, United Kingdom