COURSE CURRICULUM

The core and optional modules of the MA Criminology and Criminal Justice program provide a comprehensive framework for understanding and analysing contemporary issues in crime, law, and criminal justice systems. Core modules such as Comparative Penology and Penal Policy examine the structure, purpose, and effectiveness of penal systems across different jurisdictions, while Criminal Justice explores the functioning of justice institutions and their role in society. Critiquing Criminological Theory encourages students to evaluate and challenge existing theoretical frameworks, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills. Police Powers: National and International Perspectives investigates law enforcement authority, accountability, and practice across local and global contexts, and Researching Social and Political Sciences equips students with methodological skills for rigorous academic inquiry. The Dissertation serves as a capstone project, enabling students to apply research methods to an independent study on a topic relevant to criminology or criminal justice. Optional modules allow for specialised study in areas such as Applied Criminal Justice, Dangerousness, Offenders and Public Protection, Gender, Deviance, Crime and Society, International Criminal Justice, Terrorism, and Victims and Violent Crimes, providing opportunities to explore contemporary challenges and policy issues in depth. Together, these modules combine theoretical understanding, practical insight, and research expertise, preparing graduates for careers in criminal justice, policy development, research, and related professional fields.