Course Structure

Students may enrol on a full-time (1 year) or part-time (2 years) basis. Students must complete six core modules (80 CATS points), two optional modules (40 CATS points) and a research dissertation (60 CATS points).

The Masters is awarded to students who successfully complete all taught modules (120 CATS points) and a research dissertation (60 CATS points).

Compulsory Modules	Theoretical Criminology Controlling Crime Criminal Justice Processes Dissertation (Maximum 15,000 words) (Students who secure a summer work placement of at least 8 weeks can complete a Dissertation in Practice Module including 12,000 word dissertation and 3,000 word reflective journal of the learning experience)
Course Details	The LLM Criminal Justice Programme takes an interdisciplinary approach to the study of crime and justice and draws on original staff research. Modules are rooted in relevant theoretical frameworks with a strong criminological focus and provide students with methodological training in addition to supporting the development of critical analysis and other transferable skills. Through the dissertation, students can explore a wide variety of criminological and criminal justice topics. Students are encouraged to develop a critical understanding of the criminal justice process and the practical operation of criminal law in a domestic and comparative context, and are given the opportunity to explore in-depth a particular criminal justice-related issue through the submission of a dissertation. The programme is delivered through a series of taught modules and culminates in the submission of the dissertation on an original topic
Methodology Mini-Modules	Approaches to Legal Research Criminology Methods 1 Criminology Methods 2
Optional Modules	Policing and Crime Prevention Restorative Justice Crimes of the Powerful Youth Justice: Theory, Law and Practice Social Injustice Please note this is not an exclusive list of the optional modules available. Optional modules are reviewed each year and subject to staff availability

Contact Teaching Hours

Small Group Teaching/Personal Tutorial 8 (hours maximum) In addition to 6-8 hrs of teaching per week , students should set aside 10-12 hours per module for reading and preparation to engage meaningfully in classroom discussions, group work and other forms of active engagement.

Career Prospects

Introduction
Some criminology and criminal justice graduates use this degree as a basis for further study towards a research degree such as a PhD, which may in turn lead to an academic career. Others pursue criminology and criminal justice-related careers in the legal, public, private or voluntary sectors.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/

Learning and Teaching

Learning opportunities associated with this course are outlined below:

Assessment

Assessments associated with the course are outlined below:

Modules

• Year 1

  Core Modules

  Theoretical Criminology (20 credits)

  ×

  Theoretical Criminology

  Overview

  On completion of this twelve-week module each student should be conversant with the dominant paradigms in western Criminology, and will be able to demonstrate the insights that can be gained from such theories and their application to specific criminal justice problems and to apply such theories to practical situations. Through a critical and evaluative exposition of criminological theory, students will be shown that that concepts such as ‘crime’, ‘criminality’ ‘policing’ and ‘punishment’ do not have any universal or general relevance, but rather can be said to be contingent upon a range of historical, political, social and cultural factors. The module will also demonstrate how an applied use of criminological theory can be used to deconstruct the ‘commonsensical’ and often media-inspired explanations for a range of contemporary social problems, and accounts of criminality.

  Learning Outcomes

  (a) to provide a critical overview of the dominant theories of Western criminology.
  
  (b) to demonstrate the insights that can be gained from such theories, as applied to specific criminal justice problems.
  
  (c) to demonstrate the relationship between theory and practice in the development of an academic criminology that has professional relevance.

  Skills

  Students taking Theoretical Criminology are required and expected to apply a range of theoretical tools to the study of crime and deviance.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  LAW7810

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Controlling Crime (20 credits)

  ×

  Controlling Crime

  Overview

  This module is intended as a core for students undertaking the LLM Criminology and Criminal Justice programme. The module is designed to offer a critical insight and overview into four of the main aspects of the criminal justice process that are engaged in the control, management and regulation of crime. The module is structured into four distinct components that consider (1) aspects of policing, policing and policework and their relationship to crime control and prevention; (2)critical decisions in the sentencing process and the ways that these impact on crime control (3) competing legal and policy discourses around crime preventionand the role of governmental and non-governmental agencies that are tasked withimplementing these, and finally (4) the operation of the prison system and whatimprisionment / punishment is intended to achieve. The content of this module isbased on the research interests of teaching staff. The focus of the module willprimarily be on developments in the UK and Ireland but international comparisonswill be drawn where appropriate.
  The broad thematic content of the module can be outlined as follows:
  1.What do the police do: crime control or order maintenance?
  2.The police of the state: governance, oversight and regulation
  3.Policing social division: the impact of ‘cop culture’ on the practice of policework
  4.Policing beyond the police: the extended policing family
  5.The politics of crime prevention
  6.Situational crime prevention and target hardening
  7.Social crime prevention and early intervention programmes
  7.Critical decisions in the sentencing process.
  8.Sentencing as crime control.
  9.The theoretical and conceptual underpinnings of penology.
  10.The experiences of imprisonment.
  11.The impacts and consequences of imprisonment.
  12.Restorative justice and community offender management.

  Learning Outcomes

  1.Demonstrate their knowledge and comprehension of the operation of a numberof key agencies concerned with crime and criminal justice issues from acriminological and criminal justice standpoint.
  2.Demonstrate that they can apply this knowledge to the actual operation ofcriminal justice agencies and the political economy of crime and to situate thiswithin various theoretical perspectives drawn from law, criminal justice andcriminology.
  3.Analyse the effectiveness of criminal justice agencies and crime preventionpolicies in reducing, controlling and managing crime in contemporary society.
  4.Synthesise a range of data from interdisciplinary studies to make an evidence-based and informed judgement to assess the impact of criminal justice policies oncrime control within the UK but also within a comparative international framework.
  5.Use their evaluative skills to make an overall assessment of the efficacy andeffectiveness of crime control strategies and to identify areas of best practicenationally and internationally.

  Skills

  Each student will be in a position to distinguish between relevant and irrelevantinformation in developing a critical understanding of current problems in theregulation and management of crime and to demonstrate an awareness of thewider socio-political and economic context within which crime occurs.
  Each student will be in a position to critically analyse, evaluate, interpret andapply conceptual information to crime and its management using soundconceptual and methodological frameworks.
  Each student will be in a position to problem-solve the linkages between crimeand broader issues in relation to social exclusion and marginalisation withinsociety more generally.
  Each student will have the ability to evaluate complex policy and legal evidencein relation to the control and management of crime in contemporary society.
  Each student will be in a position to assimilate a range of policy and statisticalinformation around crime and criminality and to draw conclusions and makeassessments on this.
  Each student will have the ability to apply complex theoretical frameworksincluding those developed from law, sociology and criminology in the subjectarea.
  Each student will be in a position to develop effective oral communication skillsduring class and group discussion.
  Each student will be in a position to develop advanced written skills in theformal assessment.
  Each student will be encouraged to develop skills around self-directed learningand to exercise initiative in the learning process.
  Each student will be in a position to think critically, creatively and holisticallyabout the core precepts of the module.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  LAW7822

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Criminology and Criminal Justice Methods 2 (5 credits)

  ×

  Criminology and Criminal Justice Methods 2

  Overview

  The second of two 5-credit modules for the criminology and criminal justice programmes, this session will continue with coverage of the topics introduced in LAW8258. In addition the module will consider a number of the following issues as they arise in criminological research: the politics of research, ethical issues, and practical challenges to researching in a criminal justice environment.

  Learning Outcomes

  Student should gain a foundation for effective methodological work and a framework for the critical appraisal of criminological and social science research.
  
  They should understand a variety of approaches and techniques used in criminological and social science research, be competent at designing a research project, and have the capacity to critique secondary and primary research.

  Skills

  -Ability to critically assess research designs, the use of methodological approaches and specific methods, and conclusions made by researchers in the fields of criminal justice and criminology.
  - Advanced reading and writing skills.
  - Detailed knowledge of the application of various methodologies.
  - The capacity to determine what is ethical research.
  - The ability to study and understand complex issues and problems in the subject area from an interdisciplinary perspective.
  - Ability to critique and make use of primary and secondary resources.
  - Ability to think critically, creatively, and holistically.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  5

  Module Code

  LAW7805

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  2 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Approaches to Legal Research (10 credits)

  ×

  Approaches to Legal Research

  Overview

  What motivates legal research? In addition to the principles and methods that guide the design and implementation of a specific research project, we also ought to have some sense of the broader ‘research programme’ or ‘theoretical framework’ that animates our work. Students will be introduced to several important theoretical frameworks and research programmes from which they might draw some helpful inspiration.
  
  Legal scholarship is no longer limited to the analysis of legal doctrine. Many legal scholars engage in empirically-oriented research that investigates how law interacts with other social phenomena. Legal scholars hope to illuminate the causal connections between law and other aspects of the social world. Legal research of this kind is rewarding but it also comes with special methodological challenges. This module will introduce students to some fundamental principles of research design and methodology, covering both ‘qualitative’ and ‘quantitative’ social science methods.

  Learning Outcomes

  By the end of this module, students should be able to
  • critically evaluate the merits and weaknesses of various theoretical frameworks and approaches to legal scholarship
  • critically evaluate empirical academic research in terms of its methodology

  Skills

  • reading and synthesizing academic work
  • academic writing
  • social science methodology
  • designing an empirical research plan

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  10

  Module Code

  LAW7817

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  4 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Criminology and Criminal Justice Methods 1 (5 credits)

  ×

  Criminology and Criminal Justice Methods 1

  Overview

  The first of two 5-credit modules for the Criminal Justice PGT programmes, this session focuses on foundational issues in qualitative social science research. After an overview of research methods relevant to studies in criminal justice and criminology, the module will cover a range of the following topics: the use of case studies; comparative research; critical social research; ethnography; interviews; documentary and discourse analysis; use of surveys and crime data; longitudinal studies; socio-legal; and mixed methodological approaches.
  The module aims to:
  • provide a foundation for effective methodological work and a framework for the critical appraisal of criminological and social science research. 

  • introduce students to a variety of approaches and techniques used in criminological/ social science research, facilitate proficiency in research design and encourage methodological appraisal and critique. 

• develop reading and writing skills and the capacity to critique secondary and primary research. 

• interpret the manner in which the measurement of crime leads to the social construction and casting of deviance. 

  • locate the experiential realities of individuals and communities (agency) within their historical, structural and reproductive contexts (structure).

  Learning Outcomes

  • Knowledge and understanding of methodological issues and the application and suitability of various methods in research studies;
  • Knowledge and understanding of criminal justice and criminology as subject areas; understanding of official data sources and secondary sources;
  • The ability to critique research methods and their application.
  • The capacity to determine what is ethical research.

  Skills

  • A detailed knowledge of the application of various methodologies;
  • An advanced appreciation of various methodologies applied by criminologists and those who have studied criminological issues;
  • Ability to study and understand complex issues and problems in the subject area from an interdisciplinary perspective.
  • Ability to evaluate complex policy and other evidence.
  • Ability to critique and make use of primary and secondary resources.
  • Ability to think critically, creatively and holistically

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  5

  Module Code

  LAW7804

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  2 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Criminal Justice Processes (20 credits)

  ×

  Criminal Justice Processes

  Overview

  The chief aims of the module are: (1) to provide an overview of the aims and values of criminal justice processes, policies and practices; (2) to provide knowledge and understanding of the law, policy and practice relating to particular aspects of the criminal process; (3) to demonstrate the issues and tensions that confront the wide range of participants in the criminal justice process; and (4) to encourage an appreciation of the political context in which criminal justice processes operate. The focus of the module is on criminal justice in England & Wales and in Northern Ireland, though students are also expected to engage in comparative analysis in their evaluation of domestic law, policy and practice. The content of each seminar will allow for analyses of specific aspects of the criminal process. Key aspects of the criminal process, from the point of police investigation through to post-appellate review, will be examined in detail throughout the course of the module.

  Learning Outcomes

  • Advanced knowledge and understanding of the law, policy and practice relating to specific aspects of criminal justice processes.
  • Advanced knowledge and understanding of the major debates and tensions which underlie criminal justice processes.
  • Understanding of the political context in which criminal justice processes operate and an appreciation of the impact of political interests on the development of the law and policy relating to the criminal process.
  • Knowledge of comparative approaches to criminal justice processes.

  Skills

  • Effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to engage in independent study and research.
  • Ability to engage in critical analysis and evaluation of the law, policy and operation of specific aspects of the criminal justice process.
  • Ability to synthesise relevant and directed readings with independent research, and present findings both orally and in written format.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  LAW7801

  Teaching Period

  Autumn

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Core

  Optional Modules

  Restorative Justice: Principles, Issues and Debates (20 credits)

  ×

  Restorative Justice: Principles, Issues and Debates

  Overview

  Restorative Justice (RJ) is a unique approach that has been recently put forward as an alternative method of dealing with offending behaviour. Instead of focusing on inflicting harm upon the offender, emphasis is on repairing the harm caused by encouraging the victim, the offender and the community to work together in dealing with the aftermath of the incident. Some of the key principles of RJ include providing a platform for the victim to express the impact of the offense, providing an opportunity to the offender to apologise to the victim and offer some form of reparation and the reintegration of the offender back into the community.
  
  RJ’s popularity has increased in various criminal jurisdictions around the world and its use has been extended in the resolution of conflicts in schools, places of employments and other situations where conflict occurs. However, despite the growing interest in RJ theory, it remains a subject of debate in both academic and non-academic circles, particularly on whether it has a role in the criminal justice process. This module intends to explore the theory and practice of RJ as well consider the various sides of the debate on its application.

  Learning Outcomes

  • Critically analyse the main principles of RJ theory
  • Evaluate evidence relating to theoretical and empirically based arguments and data about RJ
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the roles of the parties in a RJ process and the benefits they can derive from participating
  • Understand the complexities involved in implementing RJ whether within a traditional criminal justice system or externally

  Skills

  • Develop the ability to present written reasoned arguments based on research evidence and academic texts
  • To present persuasive oral arguments that are logically structured and supported with evidence via active participation in seminar groups.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  LAW7857

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Crimes of the Powerful (20 credits)

  ×

  Crimes of the Powerful

  Overview

  This module provides an in-depth examination of crimes of the powerful. It challenges students to re-think traditional conceptions of ‘crime’ and critically reflect on the ways in which our understandings of crime are inherently connected to structures of power. The module is designed to explore both the practical and theoretical components of this area of criminology. Using the typologies of corporate crime, state crime, and state-corporate crime, the class will be introduced to each of these areas and will explore key historical and contemporary cases. Together, the class will critically reflect on the political, societal and legal responses to these each of these types of harmful behaviour and consider potential ways forward.

  Learning Outcomes

  Learning Outcomes
  • Develop advanced knowledge and understanding of crimes of the powerful.
  • Develop advanced knowledge and understanding of the typologies for crimes of the powerful.
  • Develop effective oral and written communication skills.
  • Engage in critical analysis of these types of harms and the political, legal, and societal responses to them.
  • Apply theory and knowledge of the typologies to real-life examples.
  • Synthesise relevant directed readings with independent research and present findings in both an oral and written format.
  • Engage in independent study and research.

  Skills

  Skills
  By the end of the module the students will be able to:
  • Demonstrate a critical understanding of the substantive module content
  • Utilise a range of theoretical and methodological tools in the understanding of crimes of the powerful
  • Demonstrate effective oral communication skills in preparing and delivering a presentation
  • Expand upon student skills related to self-directed learning through researching a case study of crimes of the powerful of the students’ choosing
  • Further develop written communication skills in the theoretical reflection essay

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  LAW7866

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Social Injustice (20 credits)

  ×

  Social Injustice

  Overview

  This module examines the problem of social injustice in contemporary, plural societies. The first half of the module explores some of the main philosophical assessments of social injustice. Students will first be introduced to key critiques of liberal theory as a response to the structural disadvantages associated with difference (including race, gender, sexual-orientation, religion, and class, among others). Here, liberal policy approaches to difference (including toleration, uniform treatment, and non-discrimination), will be critiqued alongside liberal modes of justification for their failure to deal appropriately with the disadvantages suffered by affected groups.
  
  The second half of the module discusses the practical implications of both social injustice and its potential solutions. Precise topics vary year-on-year, but may include discussion of some of the following questions: Is unfettered freedom of speech a necessary feature of or a hindrance in the fight for social equality? What role does historical injustice play in the ongoing oppression of marginalised groups? Is the recognition of difference the appropriate response to cultural domination? How has social media changed the shape of social justice movements? Is civil disobedience a legitimate response to injustice, and must it always be ‘civil’ in nature?

  Learning Outcomes

  On completion of this module students:
  • Should demonstrate a critical understanding of key debates about social injustice.
  • Should be able to explain some of the central critiques of liberal theory as a way of dealing with structural oppression.
  • Should be familiar with debates surrounding the role of historical injustice as it pertains to ongoing marginalisation.
  • Should have a critical understanding of the changing nature of social justice movements.

  Skills

  Intellectual skills
  
  • Managing & Prioritizing Knowledge: identify relevant and subject-specific knowledge, sources and data; manage such information in an independent manner.
  • Analytical Thinking: identify, understand, interpret and evaluate relevant subject-specific arguments made by others; construct independent arguments.
  • Critical & Independent Thinking: ability to think critically and construct one’s own position in relation to existing and ongoing debates in the field.
  
  
  Professional and career development skills
  
  • Communication Skills: ability to communicate clearly with others, both orally and in writing.
  • Teamwork: ability to work with others in a team, negotiate conflicts and recognize different ways of learning.
  • Diversity: ability to acknowledge and be sensitive to the range of cultural differences present in the learning environment.
  • Self-Reflexivity: ability to reflect on one’s own progress and identify and act upon one’s own development needs with respect to life-long learning and career development.
  • Time Management: ability to negotiate diverse and competing pressures; cope with stress; and achieve a work / life balance.
  
  
  Organizational skills
  
  • Efficient and effective work practice: demonstrate ability to work efficiently to deadlines.
  • Clear organisation of information: show efficiency in the organisation of large amounts of complex information and the ability to identify, describe and analyse the key features of the information.
  • Organisation and communication: demonstrate ability to use evidence to develop logical and clear arguments; show aptitude for the effective use of information in a direct and appropriate way.
  • Enterprising thinking: Demonstrate ability to think and argue in novel and enterprising ways, to display originality of thought and argument and the ability to clearly support arguments in innovative ways.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  PHL7057

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Youth Justice: Theory, Law and Practice (20 credits)

  ×

  Youth Justice: Theory, Law and Practice

  Overview

  The module covers key areas in youth justice including theories on causes of offending. The emergence of a separate response over time to young people who come into conflict with the law is critically explored. Current system and practice orientations such as prevention and early intervention are explored, as are interventions for young people who are processed through the youth justice system. Here students will learn about different philosophies, orientations and legal frameworks towards youth justice in local and international contexts. Students will be encouraged to critically reflect upon the merits and demerits of the panoply of different approaches towards youth and justice from restoration to responsibilisation, towards risk orientation and welfarism

  Learning Outcomes

  On successful completion of the module, students will be able to:
  • Critically discuss the main theories relating to youth crime;
  • Critically assess the impacts and outcomes of institutional and policy responses to youth crime;
  • Critically apply an understanding of theories to contemporary youth justice contexts.

  Skills

  Students will be engaged in processes allowing them to:
  • Understand how theory relates to policy and practice development;
  • Develop skills in the critical evaluation of youth justice policy and practice;
  • Develop research and organisational skills by using library resources and electronic resources;
  • Develop and enhance skills in critical thinking and analysis;
  • Develop oral skills through participation in workshops and group work tasks.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  SOC9045

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Dissertation (Criminal Justice) (60 credits)

  ×

  Dissertation (Criminal Justice)

  Overview

  This module is designed to allow students to engage in independent research and to develop independent study, analysis and methodological skills.

  Learning Outcomes

  1. A detailed knowledge and understanding of a chosen subset of the programme themes
  2. Capacity to build a detailed and sustained argument around a research question
  3. Advanced knowledge of available research methodologies in the study of law and in the social sciences.
  4. Understanding of the skills required in order to carry out research in law and the social sciences.
  5. Detailed knowledge and understanding of core issues regarding the current challenges for criminology/criminal justice.

  Skills

  • Advanced written skills
  • Ability to learn independently
  • Ability to use information and communication technologies.
  • Ability to think creatively and holistically and to make critical judgements

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  60

  Module Code

  LAW7833

  Teaching Period

  Summer

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Dissertation in Practice (60 credits)

  ×

  Dissertation in Practice

  Overview

  This module is designed to allow students to engage in independent research and to develop independent study, analysis and methodological skills, in the context of a placement or internship with non-governmental, legal, commercial or governmental organisations that operate in arenas that are relevant to their LLM research.
  
  NOTE: students are encouraged to explore internship options independently with relevant entities. Any particular placement must be approved by the module and/or programme convenors.

  Learning Outcomes

  1. Ability to reflect critically on personal practice/engagement in the fields relevant to the LLM while working in collaboration with relevant host organisations
  2. Ability to undertake an extended research Dissertation based on tasks/learning undertaken while on placement;
  3. Enhanced communication, presentation and networking skills.

  Skills

  • Advanced writing skills
  • An advanced knowledge of and ability to understand and critically evaluate key theories, concepts, principles, rules and values in the chosen area of law
  • An advanced awareness, critical understanding of and engagement with legal and policy debates, building on scholarship already undertaken in the course of studies
  • An advanced capacity to synthesise relevant primary and secondary literatures in the area and to use those literatures to formulate new arguments
  • An advanced ability to design and engage in self-managed, self-directed and intellectually independent research, to reflect on one’s own learning, to solve problems, make decisions, to develop work both as an individual and in collaboration with others as appropriate and to offer evidenced conclusions addressing complex actual or hypothetical problems.
  • Advanced ability to judge critically the merits of methodologies from different disciplines, and to make reasoned choices between different positions and approaches
  • Advanced ability to use, present and critically evaluate information, ability to synthesise and identify central issues from a large amount of complex legal information and information from other disciplines and to draw on scholarship encountered in the course of one’s LLM
  • Advanced knowledge and understanding of research ethics and ability to mainstream ethical considerations with research as appropriate to the project
  • Advanced ability to engage with, manage and respond to supervision
  • Engagement with one’s own personal and professional development and academic integrity

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  60

  Module Code

  LAW7836

  Teaching Period

  Summer

  Duration

  24 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

  Policing and Crime Prevention (20 credits)

  ×

  Policing and Crime Prevention

  Overview

  The focus of this module will be the exploration of key facets of policing and crime prevention. The module is taught in two interrelated parts: The first part deals with the front-end of the criminal justice system as represented by the state police and focuses on a number of key debates in policing studies such as the historical role of the police, issues around democratic accountability, the ‘doing of policing’ involving questions of race, sexuality, gender and age, as well as the impact of austerity, the burgeoning of the private security sector and the commodification of security more generally. The main emphasis is on state policing in the UK although many of the issues and debates have a resonance in other jurisdictions and contexts. The second part of the module focuses no less importantly on the back-end of the criminal justice system, namely the ways that crime prevention policy and practice has been operationalised in political discourse over the past three decades. This has shifted from viewing crime as something that requires a social response (employment, education and opportunities) to something that is deemed to be entirely voluntaristic, requiring a punitive, carceral response. The module demonstrates that policing and crime prevention are political activities that need to be framed within the broad ambit of social justice.

  Learning Outcomes

  At the end of the learning process each student will be able to:
  1. Demonstrate an advanced knowledge and understanding of the key facets of state policing and crime prevention policy and practice.
  2. To demonstrate how historical accounts of crime and policing can help illuminate contemporary practice.
  September 2016
  3. Demonstrate an advanced knowledge and understanding of legal, socio-legal and criminological approaches to exploring the relationships between policing, crime and crime prevention.
  4. Demonstrate a critical understanding of how crime and responses to it are the subject of considerable debate within contemporary society.
  5. Use evaluative skills to make an overall assessment of the efficacy and effectiveness of crime control strategies in contemporary society and to identify areas of best practice, both nationally and internationally.
  6. Analyse the effectiveness of state policing and crime prevention strategies in controlling, reducing or managing crime in contemporary society.
  7. Situate debates about policing and crime prevention within a broader political canvas and to view each as an expressly political activity.

  Skills

  At the end of the module each student will be able to:
  1. Engage in critical analysis and evaluation of the inter-relationship between policing and crime prevention and to situate these debates within the broader intellectual contours of criminology more generally.
  2. Apply legal, socio-legal and criminological perspectives to studying policing, crime prevention and community safety.
  3. Synthesise relevant and directed readings with independent research, and present findings both orally and in written format.
  4. Engage in independent study and research and to develop skills around self-directed learning and to exercise initiative in the learning process.
  5. Be in a position to assimilate a range of policy and statistical information regarding policing, crime and crime prevention and to draw conclusions and make assessments on this.
  6. Be in a position to develop effective oral communication skills during class and group presentations.

  Coursework

  100%

  Examination

  0%

  Practical

  0%

  Credits

  20

  Module Code

  LAW7841

  Teaching Period

  Spring

  Duration

  12 weeks

  Pre-requisite

  No

  Core/Optional

  Optional

Entrance requirements

Graduate
Normally a 2.1 Honours degree or above or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University in Law, Social Sciences, Humanities or a cognate discipline.

Exemption from these requirements may be considered for those applicants who hold a Master's degree (or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University) OR for those applicants with a 2.2 Honours degree (or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University) along with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience.

Admission under Recognition of Prior Experiential Learning (RPEL) may be considered for this course. The University's Recognition of Prior Learning Policy provides guidance on the assessment of experiential learning. Please visit http://go.qub.ac.uk/RPLpolicy for more information.

Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 11th August 2023 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal. Notifications to this effect will appear on the Direct Application Portal against the programme application page.

International Students

Our country/region pages include information on entry requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, student profiles, upcoming events and contacts for your country/region. Use the dropdown list below for specific information for your country/region.

Please Select Your Country/Region Please Select Your Country/Region Afghanistan Albania Algeria Angola Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bolivia Bosnia And Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Cambodia Cameroon Canada Chile China Mainland Colombia Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Ecuador Egypt Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Finland France Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong (SAR) Hungary India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Ivory Coast Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lativa Lebanon Liberia Libya Lithuania Luxembourg Macau (SAR) Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Malta Mauritius Mexico Mongolia Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nigeria Norway Oman Pakistan Palestine Panama Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saudi Arabia Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia South Africa South Korea Spain Sri Lanka St Vincent And The Grenadines Sudan Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates Uruguay USA Uzbekistan Venezuela Vietnam Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 6.5, with not less than 5.5 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required. *Taken within the last 2 years.

International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.

For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.

Career Prospects

Introduction
Some criminology and criminal justice graduates use this degree as a basis for further study towards a research degree such as a PhD, which may in turn lead to an academic career. Others pursue criminology and criminal justice-related careers in the legal, public, private or voluntary sectors.
http://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/

Additional Awards Gained(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)

Prizes and Awards(QSIS ELEMENT IS EMPTY)

Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award for extra-curricular skills

In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Graduate Plus/Future Ready Award. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.

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Entry requirements

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Fees and Funding

Tuition Fees

Northern Ireland (NI) 1	£6,980
Republic of Ireland (ROI) 2	£6,980
England, Scotland or Wales (GB) 1	£8,360
EU Other 3	£19,100
International	£19,100

¹ EU citizens in the EU Settlement Scheme, with settled status, will be charged the NI or GB tuition fee based on where they are ordinarily resident. Students who are ROI nationals resident in GB will be charged the GB fee.

² EU students who are ROI nationals resident in ROI are eligible for NI tuition fees.

³ EU Other students (excludes Republic of Ireland nationals living in GB, NI or ROI) are charged tuition fees in line with international fees.

All tuition fees quoted are for the academic year 2023-24, and relate to a single year of study unless stated otherwise. Tuition fees will be subject to an annual inflationary increase, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

More information on postgraduate tuition fees.

Additional course costs

All Students

Depending on the programme of study, there may be extra costs which are not covered by tuition fees, which students will need to consider when planning their studies.

Students can borrow books and access online learning resources from any Queen's library. If students wish to purchase recommended texts, rather than borrow them from the University Library, prices per text can range from £30 to £100. Students should also budget between £30 to £75 per year for photocopying, memory sticks and printing charges.

Students undertaking a period of work placement or study abroad, as either a compulsory or optional part of their programme, should be aware that they will have to fund additional travel and living costs.

If a programme includes a major project or dissertation, there may be costs associated with transport, accommodation and/or materials. The amount will depend on the project chosen. There may also be additional costs for printing and binding.

Students may wish to consider purchasing an electronic device; costs will vary depending on the specification of the model chosen.

There are also additional charges for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

Criminology and Criminal Justice costs

There are no specific additional course costs associated with this programme.

How to Apply

Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.

Apply now

Terms and Conditions

The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study.
Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions.

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Download Postgraduate Prospectus