About this Programme

This MA in Criminology and Social Policy is designed to enable students to develop an advanced understanding of cutting-edge developments in these fields, with a particular focus on their intersection through criminalization processes and the workings of institutions of (in)justice. The programme fosters a critical awareness of the theoretical and empirical relationships between power and social divisions as they relate to criminology and social policy. It helps students develop a critical understanding of the social, political, and historical processes that influence how crimes and harms are perpetrated and responded to locally, nationally, and internationally. Additionally, it prepares students for critical discussion and analysis of complex concepts, encouraging independent and original work, and provides the opportunity to engage in sustained, in-depth research demonstrating an advanced understanding and application of methodology, method, and analysis.

What You'll Learn

• An advanced understanding of cutting-edge developments in criminology and social policy, particularly their intersection through criminalization and institutions of (in)justice.

• A critical awareness of the theoretical and empirical relationships between power and social divisions in criminology and social policy.

• A critical understanding of the social, political, and historical processes affecting the perpetration and response to crimes and harms locally, nationally, and internationally.

• The ability to critically discuss and analyze complex concepts, working independently and with some originality.

• Experience in planning and executing a sustained piece of in-depth research, demonstrating advanced understanding and application of methodology, method, and analysis.

• Enhanced critical, analytic, research, and employability skills relevant to Criminology and Social Policy-related professions.

Indicative Modules

• Induction Module

• Critical Criminology and the State: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives

• Conceptualising Crime, Criminal Justice and Social Policy

• Advanced Research Methods for Social Science

• Globalisation and Comparative Social Policy: Crime, Harm and (in)justice

• Dissertation

Career Opportunities

Graduates of this MA in Criminology and Social Policy program will possess advanced critical, analytical, and research skills, making them highly valuable to a range of professions within the criminal justice system, social services, and policy-making sectors. They are well-prepared for roles such as policy analyst, social researcher, probation officer, prison officer, police officer (with further training), community development worker, intelligence analyst, or positions within governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, and international bodies dealing with crime, justice, and social welfare. The programme enhances employability for those already working in or aspiring to enter professions that address issues of criminalization, social divisions, and institutional (in)justice.