Program Overview

The MA Criminology and Criminal Justice at Aberystwyth University approaches criminology and related subject areas from a literary perspective, enabling you to gain an in-depth understanding of a wide range of contemporary areas related to criminology, including criminology justice policies and practices. You will have the opportunity to gain a critical understanding of the most important theories of criminal behaviour, assess their current relevance and analyse their implications for controlling crime.

The MA is particularly suitable for students coming from a non-social science background, but will also enhance and develop the learning of criminology graduates or students from a related discipline. There is significant scope and flexibility with this scheme, enabling students to tailor their studies according to their own interests.

The Department of Law & Criminology provides a stimulating atmosphere of rigorous academic enquiry and engagement from which students can develop their own criminological interests and skills. The MA Criminology and Criminal Justice will provide an excellent foundation of knowledge and skills suited to professional environments and careers in government departments, criminal justice agencies, and voluntary organisations in the criminal justice sector.

A range of assessment methods have been adopted to suitably challenge and motivate students to enable them to develop the requisite knowledge and understanding in the area of criminology and criminal justice matters. Throughout the scheme, there is an emphasis on self-directed learning, engagement with the classical and contemporary criminological theory and debate, and application of core criminological perspectives and principles to specific areas of consideration. Students will be provided with the fundamental skills in research design and a critical understanding of the theoretical foundations of research and its application in Criminology and Law. In the final semester, they will complete an independent piece of critical research, undertaking a systematic review of relevant literature, policy based documents and research in an area of their choosing (guided by academic staff).