Enterprise and Commerce
Criminology NPA Level 6 (SCP)
Campus Sighthill Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 6
Study mode Part time
Start date
Aug 2024
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This course is for S5 and S6 pupils who are still at school.
This National Progression Award (NPA) allows learners to study criminology, including the complex nature of crime and the problems of measuring crime. The course is aimed at those wishing to pursue a career in law or police studies.
It develops an understanding of the criminal justice system and provides bite-sized chunks of learning. The award focuses on areas such as the nature and extent of crime, and forensic psychology.
Criminology is the scientific study of crime, including its causes, responses by the criminal justice system, and methods of prevention. You will study the nature and extent of crime and crime control strategies.
Throughout the course, you will
- Evaluate aspects of criminology
- Develop an understanding of the criminal justice system
- Develop an understanding of the contribution of criminology to the modern world and human behaviour
- Develop an open-minded, critical and evaluative approach to study.
- Gain knowledge and understanding of the importance of evidence-based research, including investigation and research skills
- Gain knowledge of competing views, perspectives, theories and evidence relating to the causes of crime
- Gain insight into the way crime and criminal justice operate
What you will learn
You will also develop a range of knowledge and skills specific to the study of criminology, including:
- how the study of crime and criminology contributes to our understanding of the modern world and human behaviour
- an understanding of the criminal justice system
- an open-minded, critical and evaluative approach to the study
- the importance of evidence-based research, including investigation and research skills
- the causes of crime, including competing views, perspectives, theories and evidence
The units are:
Criminology: Nature and Extent of Crime
This unit is designed to introduce learners to the variety of approaches and methods of research which characterise the discipline of criminology. The learner will develop an understanding of the complex nature of crime and the problems with measuring crime.
Crime in Society
The purpose of this Unit is to enable candidates to explain what constitutes a crime in Scotland and the main principles involved in prosecution of crime and to explore the nature of crime and its effects on the individual and the community. This Unit intends to encourage the candidate to reflect on crime and become more aware of its implications.
Criminology : Crime Control Strategies
The purpose of this unit is to provide learners with an introduction to the different criminal courts in Scotland. This unit examines the role, structure and power of the Scottish criminal justice system. Learners will be able to explain and evaluate custodial and non-custodial sentencing strategies in different jurisdictions.
Meta Skills Developed
- Integrity
- Adapting
- Initiative
- Communication
- Collaboration
- Curiosity
- Critical thinking
How the course is assessed
- Ongoing assessment
Number of days per week
- 2 afternoons per week - Tuesday and Thursday 1:30 pm - 4 pm
Entry requirements
- A minimum of 3 relevant National 5s at C or above (including English or Comms)
Relevant subjects could include - English, Business, Economics, Marketing, Modern Studies, Maths and Science subjects
You must complete a strong personal statement
This course is in high demand and places are limited. Successful applicants will be required to participate in a college information session and competitive selection process on the delivery campus to secure a place on the course.
Applicants who are invited to attend the information session and selection process will be expected to demonstrate their interest in the course, engagement with the selection process and readiness to study at college.
Full details will be provided by e-mail and the information will be shared with your school.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- HNC Legal Services
- HNC Police Studies
- PDA Criminology Level 7 (SCP)
Career options
- Police Officer
- Criminologist Assistant
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date |
|---|---|---|
| Sighthill Campus | Part time | 20/08/24 |
