Course summary

Are you interested in developing an understanding of crime, criminology and criminal justice? Ready to look beyond common-sense assumptions in relation to crime and deviance? This thought-provoking degree is taught by the world-leading, research-active academics based in our prestigious Law School. Our Criminology degree tackles the problems of crime, deviance, victimisation and social harm in a well-respected programme that is intellectually challenging and exciting. During the degree you will analyse the social, cultural, political and economic contexts of crime and criminal justice, taking an in-depth look at the social circumstances of offending, policies regulating crime, and the social response to criminal activity. The degree draws on the Law School’s expertise in youth justice, policing, prisons and punishment, sex crimes, hate crime, drugs and substance abuse, organised crime, gender-based violence, desistance and criminalisation, cybercrime and measuring crime. The first year is flexible, meaning that you can choose from a range of fascinating modules to study alongside your core module, An Introduction to Criminology and Criminal Justice. During your second year you will explore a broad range of criminological theories and perspectives, consider how to ‘do’ criminological research and choose from a range of optional modules which explore various criminological controversies and issues. If you would like to take a global perspective on Criminology, you can apply to study for a semester at one of our highly regarded partner institutions overseas. In year three, you will have the choice to study specialist subjects in depth from our range of optional modules. You will benefit from our excellent connections with NGOs, charities, and local criminal justice agencies such as Lancashire Police and HMP Lancaster Farms. There may be opportunities for you to visit the prison and engage in collaborative learning, and to analyse data from Lancashire Police. All of this should help you to make professional connections, learn more about criminal justice agencies, and get a head start on your career. We’ll also support you if you wish to take on voluntary work experience, and we have previously offered opportunities with the Citizens Advice Bureau and Lancashire Constabulary's Special Constables. Throughout your degree, you will have the opportunity to gain vital skills for a career within or beyond the criminal justice system. You will be encouraged to develop your ability to think critically, communicate, speak in public, work in teams, write for academia, carry out your own research and competently analyse data.