Birmingham City University United Kingdom

Criminology, Policing and Investigation - BA (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Criminology, Policing and Investigation - BA (Hons) at Birmingham City University is designed for aspiring professionals eager to understand and address the complexities of crime and justice within contemporary society. You will explore key debates in criminological theory, the intricacies of the criminal justice system, and the evolving landscape of policing and investigation. This undergraduate degree provides a robust academic framework for students passionate about making a tangible difference in law enforcement, victim support, or policy development.

You will study this course full-time on campus over three years, engaging with core modules such as Contemporary Policing, Issues in Criminal Investigation, and The Ethics of Investigation. The curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, including opportunities for optional professional placements and a significant final year extended project. You will develop critical analytical skills and gain insights into criminal justice interviewing techniques, preparing you for diverse career paths within policing, investigation, and related fields.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) program in Criminology, Policing and Investigation offers a comprehensive exploration of crime, justice, and law enforcement. You will delve into foundational criminological theories, examine the role of media in crime, and understand the intricacies of the criminal justice system. The curriculum progresses to contemporary policing strategies, advanced criminal investigation techniques, and culminates in specialized topics such as organized crime, cybercrime, and the ethics of investigation.

1 First Year

Key debates in criminological theory Compulsory
Crime and the media Compulsory
Crime, punishment and society Compulsory
The criminal justice system Compulsory
Policing and investigation Compulsory
Security, conflict and justice Compulsory

2 Second Year

Contemporary policing Compulsory
Issues in criminal investigation Compulsory
Policing priorities Compulsory
Research proposal Compulsory
Crime in the city Optional
Youth crime and justice Optional
Critical perspectives on terrorism Optional
Race and crime Optional
Making sense of homicide Optional
Substance use, crime and deviance Optional

3 Professional Placement (Optional)

Professional placement year Optional

4 Final Year

The ethics of investigation Compulsory
Lie to me: essential criminal justice interviewing techniques Compulsory
The extended project Compulsory
Emotions in crime and criminal justice Optional
Everyday surveillance Optional
Local to global organised crime Optional
Deviant leisure Optional
Gender and crime Optional
Cybercrime Optional
Hate crime Optional
Harms of the powerful Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

16% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 21,076.00 USD 25,101.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,101.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 25,101.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 71,278.00 USD 75,303.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 607.00 - USD 1,191.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 5,034.00
Estimated Total USD 8,056.00 - USD 11,278.00

Living cost estimates are based on Birmingham City Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Corporate & Commercial LawEnergy Equipment & ServicesEnergy Policy & RegulationEnergy Storage & TechnologyEnergy Trading & MarketsEnvironmental & Sustainability ServicesHydropower & Alternative RenewablesInternational & Human Rights LawNuclear EnergyRenewable Energy (Solar & Wind)

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Global Legal Law Firm

LVI Associates

Why Study Criminology, Policing and Investigation - BA (Hons) at Birmingham City University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Moderate Application response time

Birmingham City University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Birmingham City University in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Criminology, Policing and Investigation - BA (Hons) at Birmingham City University

Can I work while studying?

As an international student in a degree course, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English language proficiency, you'll need a TOEFL overall score of 80, or an IELTS overall score of 6.0. Alternative requirements include a PTE score of 59 across all components.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Criminal Investigator, Police Officer, Forensic Analyst, Crime Scene Technician, and Security Consultant.

What will I actually study in this course?

Want to start a career in criminal investigation? Our Criminology, Policing and Investigation University course has close ties to the West Midlands Police Force.

Make sense of contemporary issues in policing by getting the big picture perspective on crime, victimisation, and various responses to crime and deviance.

Our course covers a range of topics, from the ethics of investigation to crime scene management, as well as practical criminal justice interviewing

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Criminology, Policing and Investigation BA (Hons) course has an intake in September. Be sure to check the application deadlines and prepare your materials in advance.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️