Criminology

Critical criminology constitutes a broad and multi-disciplinary tradition that studies the complex relationships between crime, control and power. You will explore the richness of writings in this field, the variety of political positions and the development of different traditions in the UK, US and the European continent. Critical criminology has also taken a recent interest in the processes associated with globalisation, thus giving rise to an emerging sub-discipline, global criminology. The module will also examine how this allows new understandings of crime, power and control, which link the global to the local. Various theoretical perspectives will be encountered, including those of new deviancy theory, Marxism, Foucauldian thought, left realism, abolitionism, social harm perspectives and, more recently, cultural criminology.

Asking questions about society is primary to the work of a social scientist. However, how we go about asking those questions is not straightforward. When planning reliable and generalisable research many steps need to be taken to ensure robust results. This course provides students with the tools to do just that.

The course introduces students to the logic and methods of social research, including the central topics in research design, understanding the methodological choices necessary when designing social research, and the realities of ensuring ethical research from the start. Throughout this process, students will be introduced to both the positivist and critical/interpretive debates behind social research. Additionally, both qualitative and quantitative will be covered. This will prepare students to design a research proposal, including selecting appropriate methods, formulating a research plan which covers data collection and analysis, and ultimately allowing them to successfully conduct their own research.

This is a module that set you aside employability wise, as it equips you with advanced quantitative methods skills that are lacking in the job market. The skills acquired in this module are highly relevant across various disciplines and professions where statistical analysis and causal inference play a crucial role. The skills you learn on this module are particularly sought after in private, third sector and government jobs that requires the analysis of data, from social to political and financial data. 

The module provides you with advanced knowledge and skills in statistical analysis, focusing on two key topics: the General Linear Model (GLM) and Causal Analysis. The GLM serves as a fundamental framework for modelling relationships between variables, encompassing techniques such as linear, logistic, nominal, ordinal and various log-transformed regression techniques.  

The module also delves into causal analysis, addressing the complex relationship between variables and identifying causal mechanisms. Topics include causal inference methods, counterfactual reasoning, and the potential outcomes framework. You will learn how to design studies, identify causal relationships, and assess causality in observational and experimental settings.

How does identity impact on crime and harm? On this module you’ll undertake an in-depth exploration of the intersections between various social identities (such as race, gender, class, sexuality, and ability) and their influence on crime, harm, victimisation, and criminal justice processes. Drawing on a range of theoretical paradigms (i.e., intersectionality, feminist, critical race, queer, post-colonial) you will critically examine how multiple dimensions of identity interact to shape individuals' experiences within the criminal justice system, as offenders, victims, and practitioners. Through foregrounding a range of perspectives, this module aims to deepen your understanding of the complexities of crime and justice within diverse social contexts across global north and south jurisdictions.

What is social justice? Why does it matter? On this module, you will engage in a critical examination of key debates surrounding social justice in contemporary society. Through an interdisciplinary lens, you will explore theoretical frameworks, historical contexts, and practical implications of social justice movements, policies, and interventions. Taking an international approach, potential topics for debate include economics and welfare; identities and discrimination; rights and equalities; citizenship and governance; ethics and advocacy; and the climate crisis. Emphasising critical analysis and dialogue, the course will invite you to address controversial topics and competing perspectives to foster a deeper understanding of the complexities inherent in pursuing social justice.

What is harm? How does it shape global society? On this module, you’ll examine various forms of harms prevalent in global society, while exploring their underlying causes, manifestations, and impact on individuals, communities, and societies at large. You will adopt a broad approach to examining the origins and impacts of harms, from those perpetrated on an interpersonal or state-sanctioned basis, through to the harms arising through political conflict and social unrest. Drawing from interdisciplinary perspectives including criminology, sociology, psychology, political science, and law, you will critically analyse case studies, empirical research, and theoretical frameworks to develop a nuanced understanding of harm-based phenomena and strategies for prevention and intervention.

The aims of this module are twofold:

First, to provide students with the opportunity to independently carry out an in-depth inquiry to investigate a research question(s) of their choice, producing a coherent review of the relevant literature, a logical discussion and a clearly communicated set of conclusions in the form of a dissertation.

Second, to prepare students to become ‘research-minded’ practitioners in order that they have the capacity to undertake research in practice settings and/or take a lead role in supervising others in such work.