| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-09-19 | - |
| 2024-01-09 | 2023-11-04 |
Program Overview
The Criminology program at De Montfort University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of criminology theory and research, analytical and critical thinking skills, and research, communication, and interpersonal skills. The program emphasizes ethical and professional behavior, active learning, and practical knowledge through workshops, guest lectures, and site visits. Graduates are prepared for diverse career paths in the criminal justice system and broader social justice domains.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
Overview:
The Criminology program at De Montfort University aims to equip students with practical knowledge and transferable skills to become active citizens who can critically engage with contemporary issues and contribute to building a fairer society. It explores social justice through the lenses of sociology of crime, philosophy, social policy, law, and jurisprudence. Students develop crucial professional and personal skills that enhance their employability in criminology and other related fields. The program encourages critical thinking and ethical conduct while emphasizing research skills necessary to understand local, national, and global contexts surrounding criminal justice systems.
Objectives:
- Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of key principles in criminology theory and research.
- Enhance student's analytical and critical thinking skills for evaluating contemporary issues in criminology.
- Develop research, communication, and interpersonal skills necessary for effective engagement in a diverse field.
- Promote an awareness of ethical and professional behavior within the criminal justice field.
- Emphasis on student engagement through lectures, seminars, discussions, and self-directed study.
- Blend of academic rigor and practical knowledge acquired through workshops, guest lectures, and site visits.
Outline
Program Content:
- Explaining and analyzing contemporary issues surrounding crime and social justice.
- Investigating the theoretical and philosophical perspectives on the nature of crime and criminality.
- Understanding legal systems, criminal justice processes, and social policy interventions.
- Examining global perspectives on crime and its impact on diverse communities.
- Developing research skills for conducting criminological research projects.
Structure:
- The program spans three years of full-time study.
- Divided into nine blocks delivered during three academic years (three blocks per year).
- Each block focuses on a specific thematic area, delving deep into key concepts and issues.
- Blends in-person learning with online resources and self-directed study opportunities.
Modules:
Part 1 - Describe:
- Block 1: Studying at the University
- Block 2: Principles of Social Research
- Block 3: Contemporary Issues in Criminology
- Block 4: Journeys through Justice
Part 2 - Analyse:
- Block 1: Explaining Criminological Issues
- Block 2: Communities of Justice
- Block 3: TBC
- Block 4: Researching Justice Journeys
Part 3 - Critique:
- Block 1: Planning Social Research
- Block 2: Justice in a Globalized World
- Block 3: Emerging Issues in Criminology
- Block 4: Final Year Project
Assessment:
- Variety of assessment methods cater to diverse learning styles.
- Group presentations, case studies, essays, exams, and individual presentations.
- Incorporation of formative assessments for continuous development and progress monitoring.
Assessment
- Assessment Methods: The program utilizes diverse assessment methods to cater to different learning styles and preferences. These include group presentations, case study analyses, reflective essays, traditional essays, multiple-choice exams, individual presentations, and poster presentations.
- Assessment Criteria: Assessments are designed to gauge students' understanding of theoretical concepts, analytical skills, critical thinking abilities, and research capabilities. They also evaluate students' written and oral communication skills, problem-solving and research approaches, and their ability to engage with contemporary issues.
Teaching
- Teaching Methods: The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, tutorials, computer workshops, and self-directed study to deliver knowledge and facilitate active learning. The focus lies on introducing essential knowledge first, followed by discussions and applications of key ideas and concepts. Contact time for teaching typically ranges from 8 to 10 hours per week.
- Faculty: Staff expertise includes academic and professional backgrounds offering diverse skillsets and interests. Some members have direct experience working within the Criminal Justice system, fostering real-world connections to theoretical learnings.
- Uniqueness: DMU employs the Universal Design for Learning (UDL) approach, providing equitable and inclusive access to various support resources, technologies, and facilities geared towards all students' needs, including those with disabilities or specific learning variances. This includes "DMU Replay," which empowers students to revisit lecture material for personalized review and revision through audio and visual recordings.
Careers
- Potential Career Paths: Graduates find diverse career opportunities across various sectors and organizations involved in the criminal justice system and broader social justice domains. Typical fields include:
- Policing
- Youth Justice
- Community Safety
- Crime Prevention
- Victim Support
- Prison Service
- National Probation Service and partner organizations
- Substance Misuse Services
- Social Work
- Teaching
- Policy-related employment
- Academia
- Career Support: Dedicated careers service facilitates guaranteed work experience placements enhancing employment readiness and graduate marketability. Additionally, graduates benefit from a global alumni network that extends support and professional opportunities throughout their careers.
Other
- DMU Global: This international experience program enhances student employability through immersive cultural experiences and global career connections. Students can participate in Erasmus+ exchange programs and benefit from various international exchange networks, broadening their professional horizons and developing intercultural understanding.
- High-quality Facilities: DMU offers well-equipped facilities like contemporary laboratories, audiology booths, clinical skills suites, and libraries, promoting practical, hands-on learning experiences to complement theoretical understanding.
2024/25 tuition fees for UK students: £9,250 2024/25 tuition fees for international students: £15,750 Additional costs: You may incur additional costs for this programme, including the cost of travelling to and from project/placement locations.
