COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA Criminal Justice degree provides a progressive learning journey across three years, combining academic knowledge with practical experience. In the first year, students explore the criminal justice system from the perspectives of both victims and offenders, examining issues such as youth offending, knife crime, over-policing of diverse communities, and the influence of social media and youth culture on offending. Practical skills are developed through activities like managing a crime scene and shadowing professionals, while academic skills in research, problem solving, and communication are also strengthened. In the second year, the focus shifts to serious crime, including domestic abuse, organised crime, terrorism, and hate crime, while also considering links between crime, poverty, trauma, drugs, and mental health. Students use analytical skills to critique criminal justice responses and are exposed to technology used in crime prevention, alongside opportunities to challenge local industry on crime reduction. Guest lectures and immersive learning enhance their understanding while refining skills in analysis and presentation. In the third year, students study risk assessment, risk management, and multi-agency approaches to public protection, with a focus on serious offences such as sexual crimes and murder. The final voluntary placement and a 10,000-word reflective essay consolidate learning and professional development.