This course aims to develop and refine students' detailed knowledge and understanding of explanations of crime and the criminal justice system. In addition to providing a wide ranging examination of the extent, effects and explanations of crime, the programme examines the criminal justice process including the police, courts and prison, and analyses methods of crime prevention and control. It also offers students the opportunity to undertake supervised research in an area of direct professional relevance.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
- First or Second Class Honour Degree or
- Equivalent Professional Qualification
The University of Leicester will give special consideration to applications from people with significant work experience or knowledge in these areas, applicants are required to pass a short written assessment that tests knowledge and analytical and expressive skills.
COURSE STRUCTURE
The course consists of six core modules, all of which must be successfully completed to attain the Postgraduate Diploma in Criminal Justice. To achieve your MSc degree, you must also pass the dissertation.
COURSE MODULES
Covers a range of topics in criminology from measurements issues to hate crime and violence against women.
- THEORIES OF CRIME AND DEVIANCE
Provides students with a detailed knowledge and understanding of theoretical debates within criminology. It examines theories of crime causation from biological explanations to contemporary debates.
- RESEARCH METHODS IN THE STUDY OF CRIME AND CRIMINAL JUSTICE
Equips students with a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of methodological issues in the study of crime and criminal justice.
- POLICING AND CRIME PREVENTION
Examines theoretical perspectives and policy debates in policing and crime prevention in contemporary societies.
- ISSUES IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROCESS
Reviews and analyses the operation of the criminal justice system and examines issues arising from the law relating to the criminal justice process and its practical operation.
Provides students with an in-depth understanding of the function, use and types of punishment both currently and historically, while examining theories of punishment and contemporary debates on penology.
The final stage towards you MSc degree is the completion of a dissertation of between 15,000 and 20,000 words. Its aim is to enable you to undertake research into subject of your own choosing, as you apply the theoretical knowledge and methodological skills you have gained throughout the course.
The course has been prepared by lecturers who are at the forefront of research in this field. Subject information is updated regularly to keep abreast of this fast changing subject area, and the very latest distance teaching techniques are geared to providing an intellectually stimulating, enjoyable and enriching learning experience.
HOW IS THE COURSE ASSESSED?
The course is based on continuous assessment, with each of the six study modules comprising a written paper of not more than 4,000 words. Having passed the six modules, you will then be eligible for Postgraduate Diploma in Criminal Justice.
Each module lasts 12 weeks, 3 weeks of which are set-aside for you to write your assignment. You will have approximately five months to complete your dissertation. Upon passing the dissertation, you will be awarded the MSc degree.
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