COURSE CURRICULUM

The Criminology and Sociology course is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of crime, society, and the relationship between social structures and the criminal justice system while developing strong research and critical thinking skills. In the first year, students establish a solid foundation through modules including Becoming a Social Scientist, Crime and Society, Issues in Criminal Justice, and Media Representations, gaining knowledge of criminological and sociological concepts, social research methods, the criminal justice system, and the influence of media on public perceptions of crime and society. During the second year, students deepen their understanding by studying Identities, Institutions and Society, Police and Policing, and Social Theory, Policy and Practice, exploring social identities, the role of institutions, policing practices, and the relationship between sociological theory and public policy. They also complete Future Directions and Research for Social Scientists, developing advanced research skills and preparing for independent academic investigation. In the final year, students undertake a Criminology and Sociology Dissertation, allowing them to conduct detailed research on a topic of personal interest while demonstrating their analytical and research capabilities. They also study Current Issues in Sociology, examining contemporary social challenges and debates, alongside Penology, which focuses on punishment, prisons, rehabilitation, and offender management within the criminal justice system. Students further personalise their studies by choosing one optional module from Social Movements or Understanding Drugs in Society, enabling them to explore specialised topics aligned with their academic and career interests. Throughout the programme, students progressively develop expertise in criminology, sociology, policing, social policy, research methods, media studies, penology, and social analysis while strengthening their communication, analytical, and problem-solving skills. This combination of academic knowledge, research experience, and practical understanding prepares graduates for careers in policing, probation, youth justice, community development, victim support, social research, public policy, social services, and a wide range of criminal justice and public sector professions. Modules offered may vary.