COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA (Hons) in Criminal Justice Studies is structured over three years and divided into six semesters, allowing students to gradually build knowledge of crime, justice systems, and related social issues. In the first year, students are introduced to the foundations of criminal justice and the social sciences. Modules such as Critical Thinking and Academic Skills, Introduction to Criminal Justice Studies, Introduction to Psychology, and Introduction to Sociological Problems help students develop analytical and academic abilities while understanding the social factors related to crime and justice. Students also study subjects including Irish Law and Governance, Irish Social Policy, Social Policy, Poverty and Social Exclusion, and The Sociology of Contemporary Ireland. In addition, Applied Forensics and Introduction to Research introduce students to investigative processes and basic research skills that are essential for studying criminal justice.In the second year, the program focuses more directly on legal and criminological subjects. Students study Applied Criminal Law and Criminology across two semesters to gain a deeper understanding of criminal behaviour, legal procedures, and crime prevention. Other important modules include Child and Family Protection Law, Human Rights Law, Prison Law, and the Policy and Practice of Youth Justice in Ireland. Students also study Criminological Research and Foundations of Ethics, which examine moral, philosophical, and ethical issues related to justice and law enforcement. During this stage of the program, students are also offered elective modules that allow them to explore specialised topics in law and criminal justice according to their interests.In the third year, students examine criminal justice systems in greater depth and develop more advanced knowledge and professional skills. Core subjects include Introduction to Comparative Criminal Justice Systems, Criminal Trials, Policing and the Police, and Prisons, Punishment and Society. Additional modules such as Psychology and Crime, Victimology, Social Ethics, and Probation explore the social and psychological aspects of crime and punishment. Students also complete Personal and Professional Development for Criminal Justice and an Independent Study for Criminal Justice, which helps them develop research skills and apply their knowledge to a specific topic. Elective modules are also available, allowing students to specialise further in areas related to law and criminal justice. Overall, the course structure provides a balanced combination of legal knowledge, social science perspectives, and practical skills necessary for careers within the criminal justice field or further academic study.