Faculty: Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Sociology and Criminology. This four-year Bachelor of Arts with Honours (BA Hons) program offers an interdisciplinary study of criminology alongside social psychology, with the added benefit of a dedicated placement year in a relevant professional setting. The curriculum will cover core criminological theories and research methods, integrated with key concepts and findings in social psychology, focusing on how individuals' thoughts, feelings, and behaviors are influenced by social contexts over three academic years, with a full year dedicated to practical work experience. This extended program provides invaluable real-world experience and significantly enhances employability in roles understanding and addressing the social and individual factors contributing to crime.

Career options significantly enhanced by practical experience in various criminal justice agencies (e.g., police, probation, youth justice) with a focus on understanding offender behavior and social influences on crime, victim support services, rehabilitation programs, research positions, and potentially in related fields such as social work, community development, or roles involving understanding social dynamics and behavior. The placement year provides direct professional experience and networking opportunities, making graduates highly competitive in the job market.

The University of Essex offers a forward-thinking environment and a diverse international community within its Faculty of Social Sciences, which includes the Department of Sociology and Criminology, known for its research excellence in the social sciences. The university's location offers a balance of being close to beautiful countryside while also being only an hour away from London by train, potentially providing access to both a focused academic environment and placement/career opportunities in London's social and criminal justice sectors. The inclusion of a placement year further strengthens career prospects.