5 Reasons to Study Criminology and Criminal Justice at ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½
A Criminology and Criminal Justice degree at ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ helps you explore the causes of crime, how justice systems operate, and the ways societies respond to offending. You'll examine questions such as:
- Why do people commit crime?
- How does the criminal justice system work?
- What contributes to safer and fairer communities?
From policing and punishment to rehabilitation and prevention, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how society tackles crime, and the challenges facing criminal justice agencies today.
Studying Criminology and Criminal Justice is not just about understanding theory. You'll have opportunities to apply your learning through our work placement module, helping develop professional skills and industry insight.
Past students have worked with organisations such as Victim Support and Citizens Advice. These experiences can help you develop communication and problem-solving skills whilst also learning how to manage challenging situations.
You can also choose to undertake a ‘Work Placement Year’, working with a self-sourced organisation relevant to your studies, gaining real-world insight and valuable industry connections.
From your first year, you'll examine the social issues connected to crime and justice and how crime affects individuals and communities. You’ll explore topics such as education, mental health, and social class, gaining a broader perspective and deeper understanding of how crime impacts society.
You may have opportunities to engage with initiatives such as Read and Grow, where students support ex-offenders on their journey of rehabilitation. These experiences can help deepen your understanding of working with people who have lived experience of the criminal justice system.
A Criminology and Criminal Justice degree can provide the knowledge and transferable skills relevant to a wide range of careers within criminal justice, community safety and related sectors. We're focused on providing you with the knowledge, skills and opportunities to build a future that can make a positive difference.
You may go on to pursue opportunities in:
- Probation services
- Youth justice
- Prison and rehabilitation services
- Community safety
- Security
- Local and national government
- Charities and non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
At ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½, you'll be part of a welcoming and supportive academic community. Our teaching staff are approachable and committed to helping you succeed throughout your studies.
From day one, you’ll be assigned a personal tutor who can provide academic guidance and support. Beyond the classroom, our wider student support teams are here to help with wellbeing, housing, finances and student life, ensuring you have support throughout your university journey.
Experience Bangor for Yourself
Join Us at an Open Day
An Open Day is your chance to experience Criminology at Bangor for yourself. Meet our lecturers and current students, explore the opportunities available to you, and discover the supportive community that could become your future. We can't wait to welcome you to Bangor.
Highly rated for teaching and support, Criminology and Criminal Justice at Bangor combines real-world learning with a strong foundation for your future.
Top 5 in the UK for Criminology
achieving 90% for teaching quality and 92% academic support
Unifresher 2027
Top 15 in the UK for Teaching Quality in Criminology
The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027
90% positivity score for Teaching on my course
Students studying Criminology & Criminal Justice achieved 90% positivity score for Teaching on my course, with questions including how well teaching staff explain things and how often it challenges students to achieve their best work.
NSS 2026
Top 20 the UK for Teaching Satisfaction in Criminology
The Guardian University Guide 2027
Welsh University of the Year
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027
University of the Year for Sustainability
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027
Top University in Wales
and #17 in the UK
University Compare 2027
Elli Garland The teaching on my course is of a very high standard
Elli is studying Criminology and Criminal Justice at ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½
Are you enjoying your course?
"I am thoroughly enjoying my course here at Bangor, it’s a very interesting course with plenty of possible career paths to consider."
What advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½?
"I’d say go for it, but be ready to make the most of both the academic and social sides. Bangor offers a strong sense of community, and its smaller size means you’ll often get more personal support from lecturers compared to bigger universities."
The teaching style is really supportive. Lecturers encourage open discussion and critical thinking rather than simply learning facts, which makes sessions more engaging. It also helps me feel confident contributing and asking questions.
Got any questions? Chat to students and staff
Do you have a question about life as a ÀÖ²¥´«Ã½ student? Our ambassadors will be happy to help you find the answer.
They can tell you more about studying here, about the amazing Clubs and Societies we have, and how they made friends and settled in to life at university as a Criminology and Criminal Justice student.
If you have any questions about the course, our lecturers are on hand to help. Below are some examples of frequently asked questions. Can you think of any more?
- What are the qualities of a successful Criminology and Criminal Justice student at Bangor?
- How can I prepare myself to study Criminology and Criminal Justice at Bangor?
- How will I know that Criminology and Criminal Justice at Bangor is the right choice for me?