Bachelor of Arts (Honours) - History and Criminology

The Criminology and History programme at Derby explores the combination of theory, policy, and practice within criminal justice and criminology. The course examines the nature and impact of behaviour labelled as ‘criminal’, with a key focus on the relationship between criminological theory and real-world criminal justice policy and practice. Students analyse the complex interplay between criminology, criminal justice, and social justice, studying crime as both an individual and broader social phenomenon, while investigating imprisonment, probation, policing, youth justice, and offending behaviour. The programme provides a wide-ranging awareness of practical dimensions, offering unique insights into real-world criminology in action.

The programme is combined with the study of History, taking advantage of the rich historical background of Derby and Derbyshire, an important centre for trade, religious expression, industry, and Enlightenment thought. History courses examine key ideas and themes within the region and globally, covering topics from the sixteenth century to the modern day.

Academic development in Criminology is supported through activities such as interviewing, negotiation, decision-making, research and argument, and problem-based learning, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of criminal and community justice systems. The teaching team includes lecturers with professional experience in probation, policing, law, youth justice, psychology, mental health, and academia, maintaining a balance between criminological theory and practice. Lecturers engage with organisations locally, nationally, and internationally, and many are research-active, publishing in journals and textbooks.

History teaching is underpinned by active research and scholarship, with tutors continuing to develop their expertise through research, conference presentations, and publications. This supports the development of students as researchers and encourages engagement with public and global history.

Learning methods for Criminology modules include lectures, tutorials, group work, and independent learning, while History modules are taught through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, study visits, and co-curricular activities.

Assessment for Criminology modules includes coursework, portfolios, individual and group projects or presentations, and examinations. History modules employ a diverse range of assessments designed to reflect both the academic and transferable skills of History graduates. Assessments are structured to develop expertise in historical research, public history, and global history, while preparing students for professional life beyond university.