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PDA Criminology and Law

Award
PDA
Campus
Langside Campus
SCQF Level
7
Local Authority
Glasgow, East Renfrewshire, East Dunbartonshire
SCQF Credit Points
32

Glasgow Clyde College will provide you with the opportunity to gain a Personal Development Award in Criminology with Law.  The award aims to provide you with an understanding of the accused’s journey through the Scottish Criminal Justice System. 

You will be given the opportunity to compare the Scottish legal system with that of other countries and through this, discuss the efficacy of the Criminal Justice System, reoffending rates and noncustodial sentences. In addition, you will cover sociological theories of crime and deviance with the topic of the mass media and its influence on public perception being analysed. The Forensic Psychology unit provides and introduction to the work of forensic psychologists as well as different psychological theories of criminal behavior and their application in explaining crime and deviance.

Qualification Breakdown

PDA in Criminology and Law (GR11 47) – SCQF level 7

  • Criminology: The Accused’s Journey
  • Applying Sociological Theories to Sociological Topics
  • Psychology: Forensic Psychology 

This course is demanding in terms of written work, study at home and group work.

Course assessment:

The course will be assessed in a variety of ways including essay responses and closed book assessment and a research assignment. The assessment approach will enable you to engage in independent research and develop the skills you will require for university entry.

Entry requirements

You must have a clear interest in the subject area and:

  • Higher English at A or B level

Target Year Group S5 and S6

Attendance Pattern

You will attend college on Tuesday and Thursday afternoon from 13:30 – 16:00.

Progression Pathways

Students who successfully complete the Professional Development Award (PDA) in Criminology will be offered an unconditional place on Higher National Diploma (HND) in Social Science at Glasgow Clyde College.

You might also go on to do:

  • Full time higher education course in social science at college or university, degree courses in law, social sciences, criminology, or business studies. 

The level you might enter would depend on the level and relevance of your other qualifications.

For those interested in studying Law at university this provides an excellent introduction to the institutions, individuals and procedures involved in the Scottish Legal System.

Employment Routes / Job Areas

Career opportunities exist in the Law and Legal Services and also in the Police.

How to Apply

When you click on the Apply button you will be redirected to create an application account for your chosen Senior Phase course. 

  • Use a personal email address and ensure your password is something that you will remember. 
  • You will receive an email asking you to confirm your account.  This will  take you to the application form.   
  • you will receive a link to the application portal within each email you receive - please use this link to track your application 
Applications are Closed for this Course