The applied nature of the degree provides you with theoretical knowledge along with practical application related to criminal justice policy in contemporary society. You will develop your understanding of the social and personal aspects of crime, victimisation and responses to crime and deviancy. The first year introduces you to social policy, public policy and sociology and the more vocationally-relevant forensic science. In the second year, you will explore subjects in more depth with, including law and psychology, where the focus is on criminal law and psychological profiling. You will develop your understanding of the processes of the criminal justice system. In your final year, you will take modules that will further develop your understanding of criminal justice policy, write a research dissertation on a subject of your choice from within the broad field covered by the course and undertake a 33-day placement. The placement, alongside the study of modules including drugs and alcohol counselling, youth outreach centres, forensic science, psychological profiling and criminal law, makes this course highly vocational.

An ability to examine issues in depth and to make constructive judgements on them is required in any number of careers, as is the capacity to work in groups to resolve problems, or research issues. Both are important aspects of our courses, and both are highly valued by employers. Some of our placement providers have offered paid employment to our students on the basis of their achievements whilst on placement. There are opportunities available in local authorities, social service departments, voluntary sector organisations, advice centres, welfare rights, health and housing, the police, the civil and public services, and private organisations. Graduates also go on to further study, teaching and research.