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 the final year , you will have the choice to study specialist subjects in depth from our range of optional modules. To prepare students for their work placement year, our Careers and Placements Team will provide advice and guidance on: the skills required to create effective CVs, cover letters and applications; tips and techniques on how to make an impact at interviews and assessment centres; how to create a relevant digital profile; and how to research employers and career sectors of interest. In addition, there is great emphasis placed upon developing self-awareness and on how to present yourself in a professional manner to employers. This optional provision will be delivered via a blend of traditional and digital methods including face-to-face workshops, online webinars, e-courses and 1:1 appointments. The University will use all reasonable effort to support you to find a suitable placement for your studies. While a placement role may not be available in a field or organisation that is directly related to your academic studies or career aspirations, all placement roles offer valuable experience of working at a graduate level and gaining a range of professional skills. If you are unsuccessful in securing a suitable placement for your third year, you will be able to transfer to the equivalent non-placement degree scheme and continue with your studies at Lancaster, finishing your degree after your third year. During this degree, 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.