MSc Criminology

Program Overview

The MSc Criminology at Birkbeck, University of London offers four pathways: Criminology and Criminal Justice, Gender, Sexuality and Criminal Justice, Race, Crime and Justice, and Global Criminology. Students complete compulsory modules in research methods, a pathway-specific theoretical module, and a research project, along with three option modules. The program is available full-time or part-time, on campus, online, or through flexible learning. Graduates pursue careers in justice, law enforcement, policy analysis, and other fields related to crime and criminal behavior.

Program Outline

Outline:

The MSc Criminology consists of four pathways:

• Criminology and Criminal Justice
• Gender, Sexuality and Criminal Justice
• Race, Crime and Justice
• Global Criminology
Each pathway has a specific theoretical module and requires students to choose three option modules, including one from their chosen pathway. All pathways require students to complete the following modules:
• Compulsory modules:
• Masters Research Project (Criminology) (30 credits)
• Research Methods in Criminology (30 credits)
• Pathway-specific theoretical module (30 credits)
• Option modules:
• Three option modules (30 credits each), including one from the chosen pathway
The research project is offered online only.
• The course is available full-time (1 year) or part-time (2 years).
• The course is offered on campus, online, and through flexible learning (a combination of on-campus and online).
• The course starting in January is only available on campus.

Assessment:

Students are assessed through a combination of coursework and examinations.

• Coursework:
• Critical reviews
• Essays
• Research proposal
• Research project (8,000-10,000 words)
• Examinations:
• May be held termly
• Usually held in the Summer term (May-June)
• May be held during the day or evening

Teaching:

• Most teaching is conducted in the evening.
• Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, tutorials, and supervision meetings.
• Students are encouraged to attend the Criminology Seminar Series talks and other law events.
• Students have access to pastoral support through a named Personal Tutor.

Careers:

Graduates can pursue career paths in:

• Justice
• Law enforcement
• Corrections
• Community safety
• Policy analysis and policy-making
• Non-governmental organizations
• International research institutions
• Think-tanks (e.g., UNODC)
• Government departments and ministries
• The media
• The criminal justice system

Other:

• The course is ideal for students with a keen interest in crime and criminal behaviour.
• Students will gain advanced knowledge and understanding of contemporary criminological theory.
• Students will learn cutting-edge research methods.
• Students will have the opportunity to specialize in a specific area of criminology.
• Students will be taught by staff who are involved in cutting-edge research.
• Birkbeck is home to the Institute for Crime and Justice Policy Research.

Academic year 2024–25, starting October 2024 Part-time home students: £7,080 per year Full-time home students: £14,160 per year Part-time international students: £10,935 per year Full-time international students: £21,870 per year Academic year 2024–25, starting January 2025 Part-time home students: £7,080 per year Full-time home students: £14,160 per year Part-time international students: £10,935 per year Full-time international students: £21,870 per year