Access to HE Diploma (Criminology)

The Access to HE Diploma (Criminology) covers the core theoretical and applied knowledge required for degree-level study: perspectives in psychology (behaviourism, cognitivism, and psychodynamic approaches), sociological theories of crime and deviance, the relationship between crime and the media, theoretical approaches to criminology (classical, positivist, and critical criminological theory), situational crime prevention, forensic psychology and its role in criminal investigations, psychological profiling, human rights frameworks, and current issues shaping the criminal justice system. The 15 units build systematically from academic foundations through to specialist criminological analysis.

The Access to HE Diploma gives you the UCAS points to study a criminology, law, or policing degree at university — it does not in itself qualify you to join the police. Police forces in England and Wales recruit officers via the Police Constable Degree Apprenticeship (PCDA), the Police Degree Holder Entry Programme (DHEP), or direct degree recruitment. Holding a degree in criminology or policing strengthens your application significantly. Many learners use the Access diploma to gain entry onto a BA Criminology and Policing degree before applying to their chosen force.

After completing the Access to HE Diploma and then a criminology degree, graduates pursue careers across policing, probation, the prison service, the National Crime Agency, criminal intelligence analysis, court and victim support services, and social research. Many go on to specialist roles in forensic psychology, criminal law, or border force with further postgraduate training. The degree is also a strong foundation for careers in public policy, social work, and youth offending services.

No. The course is 100% coursework and portfolio assessed. You complete written assignments — including criminological essays and analytical case studies — submitted online to your personal tutor who provides detailed feedback within 5 working days. There are no timed examinations, no exam halls, and no time-pressured assessments at any stage. Units are graded Pass, Merit, or Distinction, determining your UCAS points total.

The typical completion time is 9–12 months, based on around 10–15 hours of study per week. You have up to 24 months to complete, and because the course is fully self-paced and online, you can move faster if your schedule allows. The minimum active study period before results can be ratified is six months. There are no fixed term dates; you can start any time and progress entirely around your existing commitments.

You can earn up to 144 UCAS points with a Distinction profile across the 15 units. A Pass profile earns approximately 96–120 points; Merit earns 120–132 points; Distinction earns up to 144 points. Most criminology degree programmes require 96–120 UCAS points. Confirm specific requirements with your target university’s admissions team, as entry requirements vary by institution and by the specific degree pathway (e.g. BA Criminology vs BSc Criminology and Policing).

Yes. The Access to HE Diploma is a nationally regulated Level 3 qualification recognised by the QAA regardless of how it is delivered. Online delivery does not affect the qualification’s standing or the UCAS points it earns. Universities assess applicants on the qualification level and grade profile, not the delivery mode. UCAS lists Access to HE qualifications on its tariff tables, confirming they carry exactly the same point values as classroom-based Access to HE diplomas.

Criminology is the academic study of crime, criminal behaviour, offending patterns, victimology, and the social, psychological, and structural causes of crime. Criminal justice focuses more specifically on the systems and institutions that respond to crime — the police, courts, prisons, and probation services. Many UK universities offer combined degrees (e.g. BSc Criminology and Criminal Justice) that cover both dimensions. The Access to HE Diploma (Criminology) provides a strong foundation for both subject areas, covering theoretical criminology alongside the criminal justice system and forensic practice.

Yes. The course is built for adult learners with existing jobs and responsibilities. There are no fixed lecture times, no campus attendance, and no live online sessions to schedule around. You access all materials through the learning platform and submit assignments when it suits you. Many learners complete this diploma while working in the criminal justice system, security, or care — finding that their professional experience directly enriches their academic assignments.

A-level Criminology is a Level 3 qualification studied mainly by 16–18 year olds and assessed largely by examinations. The Access to HE Diploma (Criminology) is also Level 3 but is designed exclusively for adults aged 19 and over, assessed entirely by coursework with no exams. Both earn UCAS points, but the Access diploma — at up to 144 points — typically carries more weight than a single A-level. Universities recognise both as valid Level 3 credentials; Access to HE is the established mature student entry route.