Course summary

Criminology examines what behaviour is defined as criminal and who has the authority to define it. Often confused with forensic science, criminology focuses on the causes of crime and deviant behaviour, its impact on society, and how the criminal justice system responds, rather than on crime scene analysis, forensics, or criminal investigation. As a research-led degree, criminology fosters analytical and critical thinking. It explores crime as a social construct and poses important questions such as: What are the individual and societal causes of crime and deviant behaviour? Who is more likely to commit a crime? Does offender rehabilitation work? Who is likely to become a victim of crime? Why are some dangerous behaviours criminalised while others are not? How does media attention impact crime and deviance? Additionally, criminologists investigate crime prevention, the purpose and effectiveness of punishment, and how the criminal justice system can improve its response to crime. This course uniquely combines criminology with counselling studies, integrating two essential disciplines within the criminal justice system. Counselling plays a crucial role in supporting crime victims, addressing causes of offending, reducing re-offending, seeking restorative justice, and alleviating stress among practitioners. The counselling component of the programme will enhance your understanding of related issues and develop your competence in the person-centred counselling approach. You will gain a broad range of professional skills, including communication, reflective practice, self-awareness, research skills, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)—all vital for your future career.