What will I learn?

NPA Criminology is the scientific study of crime, including its causes, responses by the criminal justice system, and methods of prevention. In both the mandatory and optional units, you will study the nature and extent of crime, crime in the community, forensic science and crime control strategies.

There will be a combination of practical and knowledge-based assessments. This will involve both open and closed-book assessments. 

Note: The nature of criminology is challenging and includes sensitive topics.

You will complete three SQA units:

1. Criminology: Nature and Extent of Crime
2. Crime in Society
3. Criminology: Crime Control Strategies

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 study
• The importance of evidence-based research, including investigation and research skills
• The causes of crime, including competing views, perspectives, theories and evidence.