Best Universities for Criminology in the UK 2026: Unifresher Student Rankings

Some of the top UK universities for Criminology include the University of Glasgow, University of Leicester, and King’s College London. These universities are known for excellent teaching, strong research, and links to law enforcement and justice sectors. Check our updated 2026 rankings for the latest student insights and outcomes.

The University of Glasgow frequently ranks number one for Criminology due to its research excellence, high student satisfaction, and strong career support for graduates entering policing, justice, and social policy roles.

Yes. A Criminology degree opens doors to rewarding careers in policing, probation, youth justice, victim support, and policy development. It also builds critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills that are valued in many sectors.

The UK is one of the best countries to study Criminology, thanks to its world-leading research and practical links to the justice system. Canada, Australia, and the USA also have strong criminology programs with good career opportunities.

Universities usually prefer A-levels such as Sociology, Psychology, Law, or English, but entry requirements can vary. Some courses only require UCAS points and may accept BTECs or equivalent qualifications. Always check each university’s course page for exact requirements.

Graduates can work as probation officers, crime analysts, police officers, social researchers, youth justice workers, or policy advisors. Some also move into law, social work, or postgraduate study in criminology and related fields.

Yes. Demand is steady across law enforcement, probation services, and research roles. Graduates with strong data analysis and communication skills are especially valued in policy-making, intelligence analysis, and security sectors.

Starting salaries usually range from £20,000 to £28,000. Experienced professionals in areas such as criminal investigation, security, or research roles can earn £35,000 to £45,000, with senior policy or management positions reaching £60,000 and above.

Criminology courses with heavy law, psychology, and advanced research methods can feel demanding. Programs that include forensic science or statistical crime analysis also require strong academic commitment and critical thinking skills.

Many graduates work in policing, probation, the prison service, youth justice, and victim support. Others go into government policy roles, intelligence services, or NGOs focusing on social justice and crime prevention.

Yes. Criminology is highly respected, especially when paired with practical skills such as research, data analysis, and policy knowledge. Employers in justice, law enforcement, and the non-profit sector value graduates with this background.

Many universities offer placements with the police, probation services, or research organisations. These give real-world insight into crime prevention, criminal justice systems, and community safety work.

Yes. Many UK universities now offer part-time and distance-learning Criminology degrees, which are ideal for working students or those needing flexible study schedules.

Most Criminology courses do not require A-level maths, but you will study some statistics and data analysis. Basic numeracy skills are useful, especially for modules involving crime data and research methods.

Yes. Many students use a Criminology degree as a foundation before taking postgraduate law qualifications such as the SQE or LPC to become solicitors or barristers. It provides useful knowledge of crime and justice systems.

Yes. Many modern criminology degrees now include modules on cybercrime, online fraud, and digital forensics to keep up with the growing impact of technology on crime and policing.