MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice

Programme Outline

This course aims to develop and refine students’ detailed knowledge and understanding of explanations of crime and the criminal justice system. In addition to providing a wide-ranging examination of the extent, effects and explanations of crime, the programme examines the criminal justice process including the police, courts and prison, and analyses methods of crime prevention and control. It also offers students the opportunity to undertake supervised research in an area of direct professional relevance. The MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice should appeal to postgraduates who wish to expand their knowledge of criminology, and to persons with professional responsibilities in policing, probation and prisons, local government, the voluntary sector, and individuals in the private security industry.

Course Structure and Assessment

The MSc programme is studies distance-learning over two years. The course consists of three core modules and three options, all of which must be successfully completed to qualify for the Postgraduate Diploma in Criminology and Criminal Justice. To progress to the MSc degree the dissertation must also be successfully completed.

Module One Theories of Crime and Deviance

Module Two Issues in Criminal Justice

Module Three Option 1

Module Four Research Methods

Module Five Option 2

Module Six Option 3

Dissertation

The programme is based on continuous assessment, with each of the six study modules comprising a written paper of not more than 4.000 words. Each modules lasts around 12 weeks, three weeks of which are intended for your assignment. You will have approximately five months to complete your dissertation. Upon passing the dissertation, you will be awarded the MSc degree.