
Overview
The MSc Criminology Masters from University of Stirling establishes clear connections between conceptual theories of crime and justice, and applied examples of how they affect contemporary societies. The course has an international focus that goes beyond UK or Scottish borders, making it appealing for a diverse student cohort.
The course content encourages the pursuit of innovative and socially just responses to the problem of crime, from crimes in the street or at home, to crimes of the powerful, crimes across borders, the much newer phenomenon of online crime, and the drug problem. Throughout the course, there's an emphasis on the need for a strong critical understanding of how research is framed, used and developed, which is delivered via modules in data analysis and research design, as well as criminological and socio-legal research methods. You’ll have the opportunity to explore concepts of criminal justice, the social contexts of crime, and a variety of criminological theoretical perspectives as well as applied insights.
With elective modules in specialist subjects you can acquire and develop a range of skills which will significantly enhance your confidence in criminology and your employability. Subjects include:
- rehabilitation and criminal justice work
- drug policy and interventions
- criminalisation, social control and human rights
The course is ideal for those who are keen to continue their studies at postgraduate level, as well as for practitioners who wish to consolidate existing experience and training with a Masters qualification.
Career opportunities
As a Masters graduate in criminology, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue a number of career routes in the public, private and voluntary sectors.
Graduates in criminology can go onto roles including:
- police
- prison service
- probation and community justice
- courts
- human rights advocacy
- youth work
- women’s justice and recovery services
- victim support
- surveillance
- intelligence services
- services for individuals or families affected by drug use
- drug policy and information organisations
- charities and social enterprises
With a combination of specialist theoretical and methodological knowledge, as well as critical-analytical skills, our course is also a great platform for those considering research and policy-related roles.
Boost your employability by studying at Scotland’s top-rated university for criminology (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022).
Benefit from our links to the criminal justice sector and Scottish Centre for Crime and Justice Research (SCCJR).
Get more details
Visit official programme websiteProgramme Structure
Modules include:
- Criminological Perspectives
- Research Design and Process
- Quantitative Data Analysis
- Rehabilitation and Criminal Justice Work
- Reflexivity and Observation (Autumn)
- Research Methods in Criminology and Socio-Legal Studies
Check out the full curriculum
Visit official programme websiteKey information
Duration
- Full-time
- 12 months
- Part-time
- 24 months
Start dates & application deadlines
- StartingApply anytime.
International applicants requiring a student visa are advised to apply at least eight weeks in advance of the start date.
Language
Credits
Delivered
Disciplines
Sociology Criminal Law Criminology View 551 other Masters in Sociology in United KingdomExplore more key information
Visit official programme websiteAcademic requirements
English requirements
Other requirements
General requirements
A minimum of a second class honours degree (2:1 preferred) in a relevant subject or equivalent is required. Applicants without these formal qualifications but with relevant work or life experience are encouraged to apply.
- INTO University of Stirling offers a Graduate Diploma if you don’t meet the required criteria for this course. If you successfully complete the Graduate Diploma in Media, Humanities and Social Sciences and meet the required progression grades, you’ll be guaranteed entry onto this Masters degree.
Make sure you meet all requirements
Visit official programme websiteTuition Fee
-
International
17275 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 17275 GBP for the full programme during 12 months. -
National
7100 GBP/yearTuition FeeBased on the tuition of 7100 GBP for the full programme during 12 months.
Living costs for Stirling
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Funding
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.