We’re delighted to announce the launch of our new 100% online, part-time courses in psychology, sociology and criminology! If you’re interested in these subjects and want to gain key research, analytical and critical thinking skills to help you progress in your career, these courses could be perfect for you.
We also offer multiple intakes throughout the year so you can decide when it’s best to begin your journey. Read on to learn more about the new courses and how studying online can benefit you...
BSc (Hons) Psychology with Sociology
Explore the relationship between psychology and cognitive disciplines with our new online BSc (Hons) Psychology with Sociology. This course investigates a range of intriguing topics, including reasoning and decision making, how personal experiences connect with wider social forces, and psychology and the media.
By the end of your studies, you’ll have gained reflective thinking skills, as well as a sound knowledge in several specialised areas of psychology, from forensic to health.
Upon successful completion, you’ll be prepared to enter a career in clinical, education, forensic or occupational psychology. Other career paths include mental health care, social care, human resources and even marketing and advertising.
If you’re looking for a shorter course, you can choose to study our CertHE Psychology with Sociology which has a study duration of just 16 months.
BA (Hons) Criminology with Sociology
If you’re curious about human social behaviour and the societal factors that shape crime and justice, then this course is for you. Designed to develop your analytical and critical thinking skills, the BA (Hons) Criminology with Sociology leans into key topics, including theories of crime and how people experience migration.
By the end, you’ll feel confident pursuing roles within the criminal justice system. Alternatively, may choose to enter a career in academia, research or business – or social welfare, local government, a non-profit organisation or even in human resources.
Our 16-month CertHE Criminology with Sociology is also available if you’re looking for a shorter option.
BA (Hons) Criminology
Discover the reasons why people commit crimes and ways to prevent them, with our new BA (Hons) Criminology. During your studies, you’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of various topics including the history of policing, approaches and strategies to address criminological problems, and the use of forensics in criminal cases.
You’ll develop key research skills to help you secure roles in criminal justice and many related sectors such as research and social services. Alternatively, you could choose to pursue roles in probation and law services – for example within victim support or private investigation, or in forensic psychology, social work, research or academia.
Our shorter 16-month CertHE Criminology is also available.
What are the entry requirements?
We currently offer two entry routes for our Bachelors courses: academic and work experience. For the academic entry route, you must hold two A-levels or equivalent. For the work experience entry route, you must hold GCSE Maths and English at grade C or above, or equivalent, and at least three years’ relevant work experience. If English isn’t your first language, IELTS (Academic) 6.0 or equivalent is required.
Our CertHE courses offer an open entry route which means you don’t need any prior academic or work experience to start. These courses can be used as a stepping stone towards a full Bachelors degree in the future.
What are the benefits of studying online?
Studying online means you’re in charge of your schedule. Our state-of-art virtual learning environment (VLE) is available 24/7, giving access to your course materials from wherever you are in the world. And even though you’re not on campus, you’ll still receive the same level of student support from day one through to graduation.
You’ll also have opportunities to connect with likeminded individuals – and during your studies, the seminars and live Q&A sessions will allow you to gain expertise from our experienced tutors.
Why choose the University of Essex Online?
There are so many reasons! When you study with us, you’ll:
- receive your degree from the University of Essex, ranked #12 in the Guardian University Guide 2026
- join a global community, with students from over 140 countries worldwide
- be invited to attend a graduation ceremony at the University of Essex’s stunning Colchester campus
If you want to learn more about our new courses, download a prospectus today. Wondering when you can get started? Apply now for our October intake!