Probation

Program Overview

---

De Montfort University's Community Justice program offers a flexible pathway to becoming a Probation Officer. Through a blend of online learning and practical experience, learners gain a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, probation law, and offender management. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in community justice and related fields, with a high rate of employment in the field. The program is accredited by the National Probation Service and offers funding opportunities for eligible learners.

Program Outline

---

Degree Overview:

---

Overview:

De Montfort University (DMU) offers several pathways to qualify as a Probation Officer through a flexible approach and multiple entry points depending on your level of qualification and experience. The Community Justice programme consists of assessed knowledge and awards at three levels:

• Level 4 Access Pathway
• Level 5 Diploma in Higher Education (DipHE) in Community Justice
• Level 6 Professional Qualification in Probation

---

Objectives:

• To equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to become effective Probation Officers.
• To prepare learners for the challenges and rewards of working in the field of community justice.

---

Program Description:

The Community Justice programme combines academic study with practical experience. Learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, probation law, values, ethics, professional practice, offender management, and risk assessment. They will also develop the essential skills required for working with offenders, including communication, collaboration, and problem-solving.

---

Outline:

---

Program Content:

• The Criminal Justice System
• Penal Policy and Punishment of Offenders
• Crime and Criminal Behaviour
• Rehabilitation of Offenders
• Criminology, risk assessment and risk management
• Probation law
• Values, Ethics and professional practice
• Offender management and interventions

---

Structure:

The program is offered in distance learning mode. Learners will have access to a variety of e-learning resources and will be supported by a dedicated program team.

---

Course Schedule:

The program is typically offered over a two-year period.

• Penal Policy and Punishment of Offenders: This module examines the different approaches to punishment and their impact on offenders.
• Crime and Criminal Behaviour: This module explores the causes and consequences of crime, as well as the different theories of criminal behaviour.
• Criminology, risk assessment and risk management: This module explores the theories of crime and criminal behavior, and how these can be used to assess and manage risk.
• Offender management and interventions: This module explores the different approaches to managing offenders, including interventions to address their offending behavior and reduce their risk of re-offending.

---

Assessment:

---

Assessment Methods:

• Essays
• Case studies
• Reflective diaries
• Online discussion

---

Assessment Criteria:

• Knowledge and understanding of the relevant subject matter
• Ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations
• Critical thinking and analysis skills
• Effective communication and presentation skills

---

Teaching:

---

Teaching Methods:

• Online lectures
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Group work
• Independent study

---

Faculty:

The program is taught by experienced academics and practitioners with expertise in the field of community justice.

---

Unique Approaches:

The program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining online learning with face-to-face workshops and tutorials. This allows learners to benefit from the flexibility of online learning while also having the opportunity to interact with their peers and tutors.

---

Careers:

---

Career Paths:

Graduates of the Community Justice programme are eligible to apply for posts as Probation Officers. They may also work in other related fields, such as criminal justice, social work, or victim support.

---

Career Opportunities:

There is a growing demand for qualified Probation Officers in the UK. Graduates of the Community Justice programme are well-positioned to take advantage of this demand and secure rewarding careers in this field.

---

Career Outcomes:

Graduates of the Community Justice programme have a high rate of employment in the field of community justice.

• The program is accredited by the National Probation Service.
• Learners may be eligible for funding from Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Service or other employers.
• The program is offered in partnership with the University of Leicester.