Enterprise and Commerce
Criminology PDA Level 7 (SCP)
Campus OL - Open Learning/Cross Campus
Qualification SCQF Level 7
Study mode Part time
Duration 41 weeks
Start date
Aug 2023
Course enquiry form
Course overview
This course is for S5 and S6 pupils who are still at school.
The course requires an open-minded, critical and evaluative approach and will require self-study. Learners will develop knowledge of data handling and critical analysis as well as complex thinking skills, problem-solving and research skills.
The PDA in Criminology at SCQF level 7 covers
- The accused's journey through the Criminal Justice System in Scotland
- Evaluation of the Criminal Justice System in Scotland and other countries
What you will learn
The Accused's Journey
This unit looks at the accused’s journey from initial arrest through disposal, including any trial and sentencing, within the Scottish Criminal Justice System. It also looks at the efficacy of the Scottish System in comparison with other criminal justice systems.
Youth and Community Justice
Understanding the behaviour of people who are involved in the youth and community justice system. It covers theories relating to crime, deviance and normality. There is also the opportunity to examine the legislative and policy framework relevant to offending behaviour.
Community Learning and Development: Working with Young People
This unit explores the key processes which influence the transition through early, middle and late-stage adolescence and the nature, purpose and contexts of working effectively with young people in a community setting. It develops a critical understanding of physical, social and cognitive elements within the adolescent journey, as well as exploring key government policies which support the well-being of young people in Scotland. From this, there will be a particular focus on the resulting strategies which inform best practices in youth work.
How the course is assessed
The design principles for HN have encouraged a more holistic approach to assessment and, where appropriate for assessment purposes, a wide variety of possible ways of gathering evidence has been made available. These will involve either open-book or closed-book assessment instruments. This allows candidates to experience a range of assessments and helps them to develop different skills, which should be transferable to the next step of higher education or to employment.
Number of days per week
- The course is delivered using a blended learning model. This involves in-class lessons and some classes may be delivered online.
- You should have access to a PC, Desktop Computer or tablet.
Entry requirements
- This course is aimed at 5th & 6th-year students looking to study college courses
- You must have achieved a minimum of 4 relevant National 5 Qualifications (including Maths and English or Comms) at C or above
Applicants should be working towards a minimum of one relevant Higher - A strong personal statement (including the Higher you are working towards)
- Submission of a task may be required as part of the application process
Information on Tests / Auditions / Interview Requirements
- Applicants may be required to attend course induction sessions and participate in a selection process, which may include a written task. You will be notified in advance of the details.
English Proficiency Requirements
IELTS 5.5Progression and Articulation Routes
- HNC or HND in Legal Services or Social Sciences
- HNC Police Studies
Follow the link for further progression routes. Pathways
Career options
Career opportunities exist in the Law and Legal Services and also in the Police. Market research also continues to show that employers, in both the public and private sectors, accept the relevance of the Social Sciences in the workplace. Similarly, market research demonstrates that such qualifications could be useful to paralegals as the units provide them with some of the practical skills required by employers, as well as opening the door to other vocational opportunities existing in administrative or supervisory/management roles in business, finance, the commercial or public sector and the Police. Skills such as communication, time management and the ability to work with others were said to be fundamental to a learner’s employment prospects
Study Options
| Campus | Study mode | Start date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| OL - Open Learning/Cross Campus | Part time | 21/08/23 | 41 Weeks |
