Career Path
Criminal Defense Solicitor
Advise and represent clients in criminal cases, ensuring fair trials and legal compliance. High demand in the UK job market.
Crown Prosecutor
Prosecute criminal cases on behalf of the Crown, requiring strong analytical and advocacy skills. Competitive salary ranges.
Legal Advisor
Provide expert legal guidance on criminal law and procedure to organizations or individuals. Growing skill demand in the UK.
Paralegal in Criminal Law
Support solicitors with case preparation and research. Entry-level role with steady job market growth.
Why this course?
The Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Law and Procedure holds significant value in today’s market, particularly in the UK, where the demand for legal expertise continues to grow. According to recent data, the UK legal services sector contributed £60 billion to the economy in 2022, with criminal law being a critical component. This qualification equips professionals with advanced knowledge of criminal law, procedural frameworks, and emerging trends, such as cybercrime and digital evidence, which are increasingly relevant in modern legal practice.
The chart below illustrates the growth in demand for criminal law professionals in the UK over the past five years, highlighting the importance of specialized qualifications like the Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Law and Procedure.
Year |
Demand Index |
2018 |
65 |
2019 |
70 |
2020 |
75 |
2021 |
80 |
2022 |
85 |
Professionals with this qualification are well-positioned to address the complexities of criminal law, including the rise in cybercrime cases, which increased by
89% in the UK between 2020 and 2022. By staying ahead of industry trends, learners can enhance their career prospects and contribute effectively to the evolving legal landscape.
Who should apply?
Audience |
Description |
Relevance |
Legal Professionals |
Solicitors, barristers, and paralegals seeking to specialise or advance their expertise in criminal law and procedure. |
With over 150,000 solicitors in the UK (SRA, 2023), this course offers a competitive edge in a growing legal market. |
Graduates |
Law graduates aiming to build a strong foundation in criminal law before entering the legal profession. |
Over 20,000 law graduates enter the UK job market annually, making this qualification a valuable stepping stone. |
Public Sector Workers |
Police officers, probation officers, and court staff looking to deepen their understanding of criminal law and procedure. |
With over 200,000 police officers in the UK (Home Office, 2023), this course enhances career progression in public service roles. |
Career Changers |
Professionals transitioning into the legal field who require specialised knowledge in criminal law. |
The UK legal sector is projected to grow by 5% by 2028, offering ample opportunities for career switchers. |