COURSE CURRICULUM

The taught stage of the MSc Criminology programme provides a critical and contemporary exploration of crime, social harm, justice, technology, and digital society through 105 credits of core modules and one 15-credit optional module. Criminology and Theory introduces major social and criminological theories used to understand crime, deviance, social control, and harm, while also examining emerging perspectives such as green criminology and zemiology that extend beyond traditional understandings of crime. Surveillance, Technology and Society investigates the growth of surveillance in modern societies, exploring topics such as digital tracking, surveillance capitalism, algorithmic inequality, digital borders, privacy, and social justice. Deviant Online Communities focuses on the nature and behaviour of online communities associated with deviance and harmful activities, enabling students to apply discourse analysis methods and conduct independent research within digital environments. Critical Perspectives on Criminal Justice examines the operation of criminal justice institutions, including policing, prosecution, prisons, probation services, and government agencies, while critically evaluating the effects of social inequality, exclusion, and power within justice systems. Social and Criminal Justice in Practice connects academic study with professional practice through engagement with practitioners from public, private, and third-sector organisations, helping students understand the relationship between social justice and criminal justice in real-world settings. Digital Skills develops workplace-relevant digital competencies, including digital media literacy, online research techniques, generative AI awareness, and professional presentation skills using digital platforms such as Adobe Creative Cloud. The Aston Global Advantage module enhances employability, leadership, teamwork, and professional development through multidisciplinary projects addressing environmental, social, and governance challenges. Students also choose one optional module to tailor their studies. Harmful Online Interaction explores online harms and digital communication, particularly within the context of UK online safety legislation, examining harmful behaviour ranging from criminal activity to legally permissible but damaging interactions. Alternatively, Punishment, Prisons and Society critically investigates imprisonment, prison systems, penal policy, social control, and debates surrounding prison reform and abolition. Together, these modules develop advanced analytical, research, digital, and critical thinking skills while providing a strong understanding of crime, harm, justice, technology, and society. Graduates are well prepared for careers in criminal justice, policing, probation, public policy, community safety, social research, digital regulation, government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and further academic research.