Course Catalogue

1. Enable students to develop a critical appreciation and understanding of the workings of the criminal justice system, and of the values and theories that underpin its operation. The design of the core and option modules has been shaped by the need to continually explore key theories, concepts, and policy developments in criminal justice. 2. Enable students to develop an understanding not only of the diverse range of contemporary concerns the criminal justice system is charged with responding to, but also of the social and political influences that shape the development of these issues. 3. Enable students, through the delivery of a range of modules, to develop a command and critical appreciation of current research and advanced scholarship in criminal justice and to show originality in the application of their knowledge of criminal justice. 4. Enable students, through the examination of issues which are at the forefront of criminal justice, to enhance the knowledge and skills of professional practitioners, as well as enhancing the skills of graduate students. 5. Enable students to attain a comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to their own research or advanced scholarship in the field of criminal justice, by using a range of research methods, improving their understanding of research design, and enabling the completion of a substantial research project in a chosen area of crime or criminal justice.

Appropriate knowledge and understanding is sought to be attained through a curriculum that has interesting, engaging and relevant subject material in the core areas of study. The provision of a range of option modules will enable the students to pursue their interests in specific areas of crime and criminal justice and apply their learning in greater depth. The dissertation module facilitates advanced independent investigation and critical application of existing knowledge. Assessment methods are specified in each module guide. The modules will be assessed through coursework (assignments of varying lengths) and a mixture of individual and group presentations. All forms of assessment will require students to demonstrate an advanced level of relevant knowledge and understanding of the stated learning outcomes. Intellectual skills are developed through supported learning materials, lectures, tutorial support and seminar preparation. Intellectual skills are assessed in all forms of assessment (specified in the assessment schedule). A variety of assessment methods are used including essays, projects, portfolios and presentations. Courseworks will generally and specifically seek to develop transferable practical skills. Workshops and coursework preparation will require a degree of personal responsibility, effective communication, and successful time management. Preparation and group interaction in the production of seminars and workshops. Formative and summative assessments in written and communication skills. Transferable skills are an essential part of the activities throughout the programme. Transferable skills are assessed in the various assessment processes and coursework. Priority is also given to the assessment of skills in tutorials and workshop presentations.

The programme has been designed to reflect the changing demands of law enforcement, and the understanding of crime, both nationally and internationally. Students will be encouraged to apply and develop this knowledge and understanding, particularly in the dissertation, which can be work-based. Professionals in the field of criminal justice are used to provide 'guest' lectures, especially in modules 7044LAWCJ, 7045LAWCJ and 7046LAWCJ, in order to provide students with the opportunity to discuss practice issues. Additional employability teaching content will be delivered as part of module 7043LAWCJ (Key Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice).