Criminology & Psychology
Criminology and psychology help make sense of crime, criminalisation, criminals and victims. This qualification will provide you with a critical understanding of these subjects.
| Award Name | Diploma of Higher Education at UK Level 5 |
|---|---|
| NFQ Classification | |
| Awarding Body | Open University |
| NFQ Level |
| Award Name | NFQ Classification | Awarding Body | NFQ Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Diploma of Higher Education at UK Level 5 | Open University |
Duration
Part time – 4 years
Full time – 2 years
Time limit – 12 years
Study method: Distance learning
How much time do I need?
• Most of our students study part time, completing 60 credits a year.
• This will usually mean studying for 16–18 hours a week.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this qualification.
At The Open University we believe education should be open to all, so we provide a high-quality university education to anyone who wishes to realise their ambitions and fulfil their potential.
Even though there are no entry requirements, there are some skills that you'll need to succeed. If you're not quite ready for OU study we can guide you to resources that prepare you, many of which are free.
Answer a few quick questions to check whether you're ready for study success
Careers / Further progression
Career relevance
This diploma is relevant to a range of career paths, some of which are listed below. Some relate directly to criminology and psychology, others draw upon other skills which you will acquire. This diploma does not guarantee entry to the career fields listed, but it may ease access and increase your employability in relation to them, and it enhances prospects for progression once you are qualified to enter them.
Exploring your options: see 'Course Web Page' link below for further information.
Further information
Register for this course.
Start dates
• October 2024: Registration closes 05/09/2024
• February 2025: Registration closes 09/01/2025
Credit transfer: apply by 08/08/2024
Diploma of Higher Education in Criminology and Psychology
Criminology and psychology help make sense of crime, criminalisation, criminals and victims. This qualification will provide you with a critical understanding of these subjects. As your understanding develops, you'll question to your own beliefs about crime and harm. You'll look beyond criminal acts and human motivations to examine the social conditions in which crime occurs, the exercise of power in response to crimes, the nature of conflicts when people interact (individually, in groups or as nations) and how and why societies determine what they will and won’t tolerate.
Key features of the course
• Helps you understand how criminology makes sense of crime, harm, social conflict, victimisation and criminal justice
• Develops your understanding of how psychology helps explain human interaction, conflict, criminalisation and victimisation
• Builds critical, analytical and communication skills through an original approach to teaching criminology and psychology
• Enhances your employability in vocational areas, such as the criminal justice system and various social services.
A nationally recognised qualification in its own right, this diploma of higher education is also equivalent to the first two thirds of the BA (Honours) Criminology and Psychology (Q98).
This qualification has two stages, each comprising two 60-credit modules.
• At Stage 1 you’ll study two introductory modules on criminology and psychology.
• At Stage 2 you’ll look at criminology and psychology in greater depth.
See 'Course Web Page' link below for more information on modules.
Learning outcomes, teaching and assessment
This qualification develops your learning in four main areas:
• Knowledge and understanding.
• Cognitive skills.
• Practical and professional skills.
• Key skills.
The level and depth of your learning gradually increases as you work through the qualification. You’ll be supported throughout by the OU’s unique style of teaching and assessment – which includes a personal tutor to guide and comment on your work; top quality course texts; elearning resources like podcasts, interactive media and online materials; tutorial groups and community forums.
Tel: +353 1 678 5399
Our advisers are available to take your call Monday to Friday from 08:30 to 17:00, excluding public holidays.