Our Roundup aims to answer some of the most frequently asked questions on the social media platform Reddit. This month, we tackle questions about degree choices, job opportunities and work shadowing.
By April Baniqued. Published 28 June 2024.
Here are the questions:
- Should I study Computer Science?
- Should I study Criminology?
- What law jobs are accommodating for someone with health difficulties?
- What is the dress code when shadowing a crown court clerk?
Should I study Computer Science?
Deciding on what you want to study can be daunting. Remember to do the necessary research- find out what the course is about, the opportunities it offers and whether it fits your interests and goals.
What is Computer Science?
Computer science is the study of computers and their systems. You’ll explore the fundamental concepts of computing, its impact on the wider economy and gain skills to design and develop software.
Our Computer Science degree covers the following modules in first year:
- Introduction to Programming
- Data Structures, Data Modelling and Computer Systems
- Information Systems and Organisations
- Software Engineering Principles
- Databases
- Object-Oriented Programming (OOP)
What can I do with a Computer Science Degree?
There are many job opportunities available. Here are a few:
- Web Developer: Creates efficient and effective websites, web applications and services using programming language.
- Software Engineer: Creates computer software and resolves problems using scientific and mathematical principles.
- Application Analyst: Provides IT services including maintenance and user technical support.
- Cyber Security: Protects an organisation by implementing processes that detect, manage and prevent cyber threats.
- Game Designer: Develops a new game design that is suitable for a variety of devices and platforms.
Other roles include IT Project Manager, Applications Developer, UX Designer, Applications Developer, Cyber Security Analyst, Forensic Computer Analyst and Game Developer.
Should I study Criminology?
What is Criminology?
Criminology is the study of crimes and criminals. This includes learning about the criminal justice system, the impact of crime on society and preventing these crimes. It is a theoretical and practical study, with mixtures of psychology, law, sociology and biology.
Our Criminology degree covers the following modules in first year:
- Foundations of Criminology
- Society and Punishment
- Media Crime and Control
- Drugs in the Criminal Justice System
- Criminal Justice in Modern Britain
- Contemporary Criminology
What can I do with a criminology degree?
A Criminology degree offers many job opportunities. Here are a few popular options:
- Crime Scene Investigator: Secures crime scenes, and collects and categorises forensic evidence.
- Community Development Worker: Helps individuals, families or communities to bring about social change and improve the quality of life in their local area.
- Detective: Manages and conducts investigations including drugs, robbery, homicide and company fraud.
- Private Investigator: Gathers evidence and solves cases independently from the police.
- Probation Officer: Supervises, supports and advises offenders with prison sentences or serving community service.
Here are more roles typically associated with the subject: Civil Service Administrator, Intelligence Analyst, Criminologist, Forensic Psychologist and Forensic Scientist.
What law jobs are accommodating for someone with health difficulties?
It is important to research job roles that align with your everyday lifestyle. Here are a few law job roles that may be of interest to those with health challenges. These positions often offer a great work-life balance, adequate sleep and are not highly stressful.
- Law Librarian: Handles legal information like writing, classifying and validating materials. You can focus on a niche of interest, like foreign and international law, government documents, and antiquarian books.
- Professional Support Lawyer/Knowledge Lawyer: Supports fee-earning lawyers by sharing insights on legal trends and legal developments, analysing legal matters, planning legal strategies and developing training programs for lawyers.
- Compliance Officer/Compliance Lawyer: Ensures the company is operating legally and ethically based on regulatory requirements.
- Advisory Roles: Offers legal guidance and support to clients and organisations.
What is the dress code when shadowing a crown court clerk?
During a work shadowing you will be observing a professional as they fulfil their everyday work routine and tasks. This can help you gain a better understanding of what the career involves and ultimately decide if the role is something you’ll consider in the future.
When it comes to dress code, a useful tip is to observe and take inspiration from what the person you are shadowing is wearing. This will allow you to fit in more naturally as you accompany them. Bear in mind the responsibilities involved in the role so you are prepared.
A crown court clerk typically has a professional attire, especially since they are usually in the courtroom, so smart officewear would be a suitable option when on work experience.
It is best practice to ask the organisation themselves rather than guessing. They may even have useful guides.
Have more questions? Visit our employability pages for the answers. Our students can also reach out to our Careers Service for further advice and support.
