Access to HE Diploma (Criminology)

Have you ever wondered about the inner workings of a criminal mind? 

What motivates people to become criminals? If you are interested in aspects of criminal behaviour then our new and exciting course is perfect for you! The Access to Higher Education Diploma (Criminology) will provide you with a broad understanding of the various aspects of crime where we look at topics such as nature v nurture, the criminal justice system, obedient and disobedient behaviour, sociology of crime, the media and statistics, and understanding how poverty impacts upon crime. You will also learn about the process of criminalisation and victimisation as well as well as practical approaches to responding to crime in society.

Our expert tutors and staff will support you throughout your course, at the end of which you will have gained a nationally-recognised qualification that will open the doors to higher education. You will also have the foundations for a range of future careers, from working with the police, probation service , justice system and other crime/psychology related professions. As well as a variety of curriculum based degree programmes.

Following your successful application you will be invited to attend a return to learn day where you will get an introduction to the teaching staff, content of the course, be taught some introductory sessions from the modules you will study, initial assessments, along with advise on how to start to formulate your personal statements.

The course will be delivered over three days each week between core hours 9:30am-2:30pm.

A full induction to the programme will also be provided for two weeks commencing September.

Applicants must be at least 18 years old by 31st August 2026.

Applicants aged 19+ are required to have one GCSE (or equivalent) in English or Maths at a minimum of Grade 4/C.  If you do not have a Level 2 qualification in Maths and English, you may be able to study one of these alongside your Access to HE course- a further interview will be arranged with the GCSE team. 

Applicants aged 18 must have already achieved a Grade 4 or higher in both GCSE Maths and English before enrolling on the Access course.

Interview Process: 

As part of the interview process, you will have a detailed one-on-one interview to discuss your qualifications and any relevant industry experience. You will also receive personalized guidance on which programme is best suited to your goals. To prepare, it is crucial that you research the entry requirements for your chosen degree course, as these can vary by programme.

There are no formal examinations within this qualification as all your work will be assessed through essays, reports, and case studies. Our fantastic team will provide you with ongoing guidance and support with aspects of studying to ensure you are able to reach your full potential as you prepare for a degree at university or higher degree apprenticeship.

Throughout the Diploma, students will also develop transferable skills such as working with others in teams, utilising evidence, research skills and explaining human behaviour.

Please contact Michelle Davies by emailing michelle.davies@nscg.ac.uk

The Access to HE Diploma (Criminology ) is a Level 3 qualification, which is designed to give students a direct progression route into a varied set of degree courses including criminology, community justice, policing, psychology, sociology, anthropology and social policy.

Do not be put off by the cost of the course, as an Advanced Learner Loan is open to anyone aged over 19 studying a Level 3 or above qualification, is not means tested or subject to credit checks and you only start to pay it back when you are earning over £25,000 per year.

If you successfully complete your Access to HE course, progress onto and complete a degree level programme, you do not have to pay back your Advanced Learner Loan.  If you are aged 19-23 and studying your first full-time Level 3 programme your course will be completely free. For more details visit nscg.ac.uk/finance

If you have any queries with regards to the funding of your course, please contact Charlotte Robertson on 01782 254141 or email charlotte.robertson@nscg.ac.uk