Criminology and Criminal Justice

Overview

This Criminology and Criminal Justice MA programme from Aberystwyth University will give students the opportunity to gain a critical understanding of the most important theories of criminal behaviour, assess their current relevance and analyse their implications for controlling crime. This scheme is intended to open up the study of criminology at postgraduate level to a wider audience, including those coming from a non-social science background, or to enhance and develop the learning of graduates from criminology or a related discipline. There is significant scope and flexibility with this scheme, enabling students to tailor their studies according to their own interests. A range of assessment methods have been adopted to suitably challenge and motivate students to enable them to develop the requisite knowledge and understanding in the area of criminology and criminal justice matters. 

Throughout the scheme, there is an emphasis on self-directed learning, engagement with the classical and contemporary criminological theory and debate, and application of core criminological perspectives and principles to specific areas of consideration. Students will be provided with the fundamental skills in research design and a critical understanding of the theoretical foundations of research and its application in Criminology and Law. In the final semester, they will complete an independent piece of critical research, undertaking a systematic review of relevant literature, policy based documents and research in an area of their choosing (guided by academic staff).

Careers

Graduates from this scheme will leave with the professional knowledge and capacity to independently practice, reflect, review and build upon disciplinary expertise and judgement. The schemes’ teaching, learning and assessment requires students to develop ethical practice, critical analytical skills, research skills and presentation skills which will enable them to share their criminological expertise in both academic and professional settings.

Graduate career opportunities include (but not restricted to):

• government departments and criminal justice agencies

• voluntary organisations / non-governmental organisations in the crime and justice field

• international organisations, such as the UN

• research and academia