BA (Hons) in Crime & Criminal Justice (Top-Up)

You will need to hold a pass or higher grade from related Level 5 qualification, such as the Foundation Degree in Crime and Criminal Justice (240 credits).

Here’s how to apply depending on your plans:

• If you’re applying to multiple Higher Education providers, submit your application through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) by the specified deadline for the relevant recruitment cycle. This ensures your application reaches all your chosen institutions efficiently.
• If this College is your only choice, you can begin the process by selecting the “Apply” button at the top of this course page, which will take you to the online application form for a simple and direct experience.
• For detailed information on UCAS applications and deadlines, https://www.ucas.com/applying .

Teaching on modules is active and action-orientated; learning will be done in a safe and supportive classroom space, with clear intent and sequenced progression articulated by an experienced and charismatic teaching team. Students will get the chance to apply learning to their own interests and understanding of the world, whilst collaborating with peers on flipped research tasks and project work from an androgogical perspective. Group debates, problem-solving, interactive group presentations and collaborative research tasks all add to EPNE’s meaning of active and entrenched learning on the BA top up in Crime and Criminal Justice, and thus cater for an outstanding student experience.

As with the nature of the study area, assessments take a vastly diverse form depending on the area studied, from research-orientated writing tasks, to public-facing presentations and digital knowledge production.

Applicants are ideally expected to hold GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade 4/C or above, or a Level 2 equivalent qualification. These qualifications support the development of the literacy and numeracy skills needed to succeed in higher education and within your chosen career.

While there are no formal placements within the programme, you will engage with guest speakers from across the Crime and Criminal Justice sector and may have the opportunity to take part in workplace visits. These experiences provide valuable insight into professional practice and career pathways. You may also be supported in applying for voluntary positions that can be completed alongside your studies, helping you to build experience and strengthen your CV.

We have a number of links to industry, including partnerships to provide an outstanding learning experience and ensure your are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to progress to a career in industry.

These include Northumbria Police, HM Court and Tribunals Service, HM Prison Service and HM Probation Service.

You will study for 12 hours per week, typically across two full days; however, this may be subject to change depending on timetabling. In addition, you are expected to undertake 2–3 hours of independent study per module each week, which should include reading, assessment preparation, and research to support your learning and progression.

Students will enhance their skills and competencies on this programme by undertaking a dissertation, and completing 4 other Crime and Criminal Justice modules.

There is an inclusive and supportive design which will allow learners to complete the programme effectively.

BACCJ01 – Dissertation (40 credits)
The dissertation is the culmination of your degree, providing an opportunity to conduct independent, original research on a topic of your choice within crime and criminal justice. Building on the research skills developed at Levels 4 and 5, you will design, plan and execute a substantial research project that reflects your academic interests and career ambitions.
You will develop a research proposal, refine your methodology, and engage critically with existing literature before collecting and analysing your own data or conducting an in-depth literature-based study. Throughout the process, you will be supported by a dedicated supervisor.
The module concludes with the presentation of your findings in both a written dissertation and a professional exhibition. This is your opportunity to showcase your expertise, analytical ability and independence, key qualities valued in both academic and professional contexts.

BACCJ02 – Health, Wellbeing and Social Injustice (20 credits)
This module explores the complex relationship between crime, inequality and public health, encouraging you to think critically about how social conditions shape both offending and victimisation. You will examine how factors such as poverty, inequality, disability and social exclusion influence patterns of crime and access to justice.
The module also investigates the role of the criminal justice system as a public health actor, exploring issues such as trauma, addiction, mental health and rehabilitation. You will consider contemporary challenges, including digital harms, hate crime, and the impact of global insecurities on wellbeing.
Through a collaborative and reflective assessment, you will analyse real-world issues and develop solutions that promote fairness, inclusion and social justice. This module highlights the importance of interdisciplinary thinking in addressing complex social problems.

BACCJ03 – The War on Terror (20 credits)
This specialist module examines terrorism and counter-terrorism from criminological, legal and sociological perspectives. You will explore how terrorism is defined, the factors that drive radicalisation and extremism, and the ways in which states respond to these threats both nationally and internationally.
Key topics include the UK’s CONTEST strategy, anti-terror legislation, the role of intelligence agencies, and the balance between national security and civil liberties. You will also critically analyse case studies, including contemporary attacks and miscarriages of justice, to assess the effectiveness of counter-terrorism strategies.
Through an academic poster exhibit and professional discussion, you will evaluate competing explanations for terrorism and consider the ethical implications of state responses. This module challenges you to engage with one of the most complex and politically sensitive areas of modern criminal justice.

BACCJ04 – Criminal Investigation (20 credits)
This module offers an in-depth exploration of how crime is investigated in modern criminal justice systems, combining legal, forensic and procedural perspectives. You will examine the full investigative process, from crime scene analysis and forensic evidence to police interviews, surveillance and courtroom testimony.
Key areas include investigative models, digital forensics, covert policing, and the role of legislation such as PACE and the Investigatory Powers Act. You will also critically assess the reliability of evidence, including eyewitness testimony and forensic science, alongside high-profile miscarriages of justice.
Through applied research and the creation of a professional podcast, you will explore contemporary challenges such as the use of AI, ethical dilemmas and transnational crime. This module develops your ability to critically evaluate investigative practice and prepares you for careers in policing, investigation and legal professions.

BACCJ05 – Victimology and Peace-making (20 credits)
This module shifts the focus of criminal justice away from offenders and towards victims, challenging traditional approaches to crime and punishment. You will explore the experiences of victims, examining how victimisation is shaped by social, political and cultural factors, and why some voices are often marginalised within the justice system.
Central to the module is the study of restorative justice and peace-making approaches, which aim to repair harm, empower victims and reintegrate offenders. You will explore concepts such as the victim-offender overlap, victim impact, and the role of communities in justice processes.
Through critical essays and applied case studies, you will evaluate whether restorative approaches offer a more effective and humane response to crime. This module encourages you to rethink justice, focusing on healing, accountability and long-term social change.