Discover the top UK universities for Criminology in 2026. We highlight places with strong academic reputation, excellent student satisfaction, and vibrant social scenes.
Best Universities for Criminology: Unifresher Student Rankings 2026
The top universities earn Gold, Silver, and Bronze badges based on student satisfaction, graduate employability, teaching quality, and value for money. For full details, see our Ranking Methodology below.
| Rank | University | Academic | Social |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Gold | University of Leicester | 88 | 83 |
| 2 Silver | University of Liverpool | 86 | 85 |
| 3 Bronze | University of Kent | 85 | 79 |
| 4 | University of Manchester | 84 | 81 |
| 5 | University of Nottingham | 83 | 80 |
| 6 | University of Leeds | 82 | 79 |
| 7 | University of Sussex | 80 | 78 |
| 8 | University of Essex | 79 | 77 |
| 9 | University of Edinburgh | 78 | 82 |
| 10 | University of Glasgow | 77 | 81 |
1. University of Leicester Gold
2. University of Liverpool Silver
3. University of Kent Bronze
4. University of Manchester
5. University of Nottingham
6. University of Leeds
7. University of Sussex
8. University of Essex
9. University of Edinburgh
10. University of Glasgow
How We Ranked These Universities
Our Criminology rankings combine trusted academic data with student lifestyle factors to reflect what really matters to students.
- Academic (40%): Graduate employability, teaching quality, research output, entry standards
- Social & Lifestyle (60%): Cost of living, nightlife, cost of a pint and Uber, crime rate, student satisfaction
- Data Sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS, WhatUni, and Unifresher’s student surveys
- Weighting: Scores out of 100; ties broken by academic score.
Top-Ranked Criminology Universities Explained
University of Leeds
Known for pioneering research, expert teaching, and lively student community.University of Manchester
Strong interdisciplinary approach and great graduate employability.University of Glasgow
Affordable city with high student satisfaction and excellent support services.University of Nottingham
Reputation for innovative course content and strong social life.University of Sheffield
Top-notch teaching combined with active student societies.University of Birmingham
Solid academic foundation with good career prospects.University of York
Great balance of research quality, teaching, and social opportunities.University of Sussex
Known for focus on social justice and community engagement.University of Exeter
High student satisfaction with strong wellbeing support.King’s College London
Urban campus with excellent access to internships and networking.Career Prospects After a Criminology Degree
Graduates often pursue careers in law enforcement, social work, research, and policy. Related subjects to explore include Law, Social Work, and Sociology.
Criminology Course Requirements & Entry Standards
Typical entry requirements include A-levels or equivalents, with UCAS points usually between 96 and 128. Some universities may ask for related subjects.
Cheapest Cities to Study Criminology in the UK
Glasgow, Sheffield, and Leeds offer affordable living with great student support.
Best Criminology Unis for Nightlife & Social Life
Manchester, Leeds, and Nottingham rank highly for active student unions and nightlife.
Student Wellbeing, Mental Health & Study Support
Top services found at Glasgow, Exeter, and Sussex, focusing on mental health and academic support.
Not Sure About Criminology? Consider These Alternatives
Check out Law, Social Work, or Sociology.
Summary: Which Criminology Uni is Right for You?
Focus on course content, student support, and city lifestyle. Compare your options and find the best fit for your future.
FAQs on the Best UK Universities for Criminology
Top universities for Criminology include University of Glasgow, University of Leicester, and King’s College London. Check our 2026 rankings for the most up-to-date student insights.
The University of Glasgow often ranks top for Criminology due to its research excellence and student satisfaction.
Yes, a Criminology degree offers strong career paths in law enforcement, social work, and research. It also develops critical thinking and analytical skills.
The UK is highly regarded for Criminology, but countries like Canada, Australia, and the USA also offer strong programs and job prospects.
Entry requirements vary, but subjects like Sociology, Psychology, and English are commonly preferred. Check specific course pages for details.
Graduates often work in law enforcement, probation services, social work, research, and policy development.
Demand is steady, especially in public sector roles and research. Graduates with strong analytical and communication skills have good job prospects.
Starting salaries range from £20,000 to £28,000, increasing with experience and specialisation in fields like forensic science or criminal justice.
Courses with a strong focus on law, forensic science, or research methods can be challenging. Fieldwork and case studies require dedication.
Many work in the police force, probation services, NGOs, government agencies, or pursue further study in law or social sciences.
Yes, Criminology is well-respected, especially for careers in social justice, law enforcement, and policy-making.
Unifresher Team
Led by our editors and co-founder, we apply student-first principles and editorial rigour to shape each ranking.
Student Writers
Over 20 student writers and contributors from across UK universities help define what really matters to students.
Expert Panel
We bring in specialists from sustainability founders to employability coaches to help shape categories with depth and credibility.
Our judging combines real student input with expert guidance. Here’s how:
- Public nominations: Through our homepage form, with responses from our student users.
- Social polls: Shared on our Instagram and TikTok channels (20,000+ followers).
- Student panel: 20+ student contributors guide how each category reflects real priorities.
- Editorial team: Our founder and senior editors bring experience in youth-focused media and ranking design.
- Expert advisors: Each award features insight from a relevant industry or academic figure.
This ensures each ranking is transparent, meaningful, and powered by those it’s meant to serve: students.
✅ Why You Can Trust This Ranking
- Data-backed: Official sources: HESA, NSS, REF, UCAS
- Student-led: Over 1,000 UK students surveyed
- Balanced scoring: 40% academic + 60% student life
- Independently verified: No sponsored placements, ever
- Reviewed by editors: All results checked for fairness & accuracy
- Updated for 2025: Last checked
