PDA Criminology (Schools)
***PLEASE NOTE - only pupils who will be at school during session 2026/27 can apply for this course***
This PDA is designed to introduce learners to a selection of topics and areas of debates that inform contemporary justice. Learners will examine the accused’s journey from initial arrest; trial and sentencing and the disposals adopted by the Scottish Criminal Justice System. The learners will also study the efficacy of the Scottish System in comparison with other criminal justice systems.
In addition, there is the opportunity to look at a number of different contexts, for example: Social Sciences, Social Care Practice and Community Learning and Development, which contribute to the multi-disciplinary nature of Criminology.
This course will run on Tuesday & Thursday 1.30pm - 4.30pm
Please note that the course you are applying for is split across two sessions. When submitting your application, the dates displayed will be for the June Induction in session 2025/26. Once successfully enrolled on this session, you will automatically be transferred to the 2026/27 session, which begins in August, for the remainder of the course.
Content
- Criminology: The Accused’s Journey
- Sociology for Social Care Practice
- Scottish Criminal Procedure
Career Paths
- Career opportunities exist in the Law and Legal Services, also in the Police, Youth Work, Care, Community Learning and Development, the Penal System and Criminal Justice.
Progression
The achievement of the SCQF level 7 PDA could contribute towards the achievement of the HNC or HND in Social Sciences, Legal Services, Care, Community Learning and Development, or HNC in Police Studies depending on the combination of units achieved although other units, which are not part of the PDA, would have to be achieved to obtain the HNC or HND.
An HNC could then lead onto the corresponding HND and both the HNC and HND can aid progression into undergraduate studies in higher education institutions.
The University of Stirling currently offer degree programmes in the following:
- BA (Hons) Criminology and Social Policy
- BA (Hons) Criminology and Sociology
Entry requirements
- Pupils should have already achieved three x Nat 5s and currently studying at least two subjects at higher level and on track to pass or about to start their highers. One of the subjects should be English or another discursive subject.
More Info
Further advice for School College Programme and Foundation Apprenticeship applications:
• Please ensure you have an online account before starting your application
• Before starting the application process, please ensure you already hold or are working towards the relevant entry qualifications required for the course you are applying for
• Ensure you use your own personal email address when creating your online account
• Once you have submitted your application, you will receive an automated email immediately
• If you do not receive an acknowledgement e-mail immediately, please check your SPAM/Junk folder
• Please include as much detail as possible in your personal statement such as; the reason you are applying, future career plans, relevant experience, hobbies and interests
• Disclosing support needs in your application will not affect your chances of being offered a place on a course at Forth Valley College
• If your application is successful, you will be invited to an information session
• If your application is unsuccessful, you should speak to a guidance teacher or SDS school liaison officer.
• If you are unable to attend the information session or wish to withdraw your application, please email the School Partnership team - school.partnership@forthvalley.ac.uk