Master of Arts - Criminology

The MA Criminology degree is open to graduates from all academic backgrounds and is designed for both recent graduates and practitioners seeking to deepen their understanding of crime and the criminal justice system. The course provides an opportunity to engage with both theoretical criminology and the applied aspects of crime, offending, and justice.

The programme is structured across three stages. The Certificate stage includes three taught modules, while the Diploma stage consists of six taught modules. Students who progress to the Master’s stage complete an extended, individually designed research project. It is possible to exit the programme with a qualification at the Certificate, Diploma, or Master’s level. Full-time students typically complete all stages within one year, while part-time students usually complete the Diploma and Master’s stages over two years.

The course offers a contemporary and critical exploration of criminological issues. Students are introduced to a range of current criminological theories and develop the ability to connect theory with practice in specialised areas of crime, offending, and victimisation.

Throughout the programme, criminology is studied from both theoretical and applied perspectives, enabling the development of practical skills relevant to careers across the criminal justice sector. An international focus is embedded within teaching and learning, including attention to issues that are often marginalised within traditionally Western-focused criminology. By the end of the course, graduates are equipped to address complex issues in a systematic and creative manner.