COURSE CURRICULUM

The Criminology course is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of crime, criminal behaviour, and the criminal justice system while developing strong research and analytical skills. In the first year, students build a solid foundation through modules including Becoming a Social Scientist, Crime and Society, Criminal Law for Criminologists, and Issues in Criminal Justice, gaining an understanding of criminological concepts, legal principles, social research methods, and the operation of the criminal justice system. During the second year, students deepen their knowledge by studying Criminological Theory in Practice, Police and Policing, and Victims and Crime, exploring how criminological theories are applied in real-world settings, the role of policing in society, and the experiences and rights of crime victims. 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 in-depth research on a topic of personal interest while demonstrating their analytical and research capabilities. They also study Current Issues in Criminology, examining contemporary debates and emerging challenges within the criminal justice system, alongside Penology, which focuses on punishment, prisons, rehabilitation, and offender management. Students further personalise their studies by selecting one optional module, choosing between Social Movements or Understanding Drugs in Society, enabling them to explore specialised areas of criminology aligned with their interests. Throughout the programme, students progressively develop expertise in criminological theory, criminal law, policing, victimology, penology, research methods, and social analysis while strengthening their communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. This combination of academic knowledge, research experience, and practical understanding prepares graduates for careers in policing, probation, prisons, youth justice, victim support, community safety, policy development, research, and a wide range of criminal justice and public sector professions. Modules offered may vary.