Postgraduate taught programme
MSc
Criminology
Build critical in-depth knowledge of 21st century criminological issues. Explore real‑world issues through workshops that combine lectures, debates, discussions and group tasks, offering a range of dynamic criminological perspectives.Real‑world, problem‑based learning
Tackle contemporary crime and justice challenges through hands‑on workshops, debates and applied tasks that mirror real professional practice.
Exceptional facilities and research-informed teaching
Learn directly from internationally recognised, research‑active academics who bring theory, real‑world policy insight and hands‑on experience into the classroom, supported by specialist facilities such as our purpose‑built Crime Suite.
Strong industry and professional links
Engage with major regional, national and global justice organisations – building experience, insight and networks that strengthen your career prospects across sectors.
Details
Programme overview
You will study core modules in criminological theory and research design, covering the advanced study of critical and theoretical perspectives within criminology and criminal justice and preparing you for writing a dissertation. In the two bespoke modules 'Global Inequality, Vulnerability and Justice' and 'Crime, Culture and Control' you will have the opportunity to study a wide range of criminological issues, each of which is taught by an active researcher in that field. Gain a relevant, advanced and sophisticated understanding of contemporary criminology and the skills necessary to strengthen your competencies as both a learner and practitioner.
Core modules
CRIM732
MSc Criminology Dissertation
The dissertation module provides the opportunity for students to undertake a supervised, self-directed, research project of around 15,000 words on any criminologically pertinent topic of their choice, independent of the modules they have studied. It will make use of the IT, library, and other research and scholarly skills learned within the Criminological Research module and developed through subsequent modules.
CRIM745
Criminology Theory
This module identifies core criminological theories and concepts from an advanced perspective. It allows students the opportunity to develop critical responses to existing criminological theoretical discourses. Students can flexibly and creatively apply theoretical ideas within unfamiliar contexts.
CRIM746
Criminological Research
This module consists of two distinct elements. In the first element, dilemmas and issues arising from different criminological research methodologies are explored and analysed. In the second element, the application of different methodological approaches to policy and practice issues is assessed and analysed.
CRIM747
Global Inequality, Vulnerability and Justice
This module engages the student with global issues that relate to crime, deviance and harm. By utilizing an advanced perspective which examines a range of case studies, students will develop critical responses in relation to global power structures and the causation of inequality and vulnerability.
CRIM748
Crime, Culture and Control
This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to critically analyse a range of criminal and deviant behaviours and the responses to them against the backdrop of neoliberal polity. Students will examine why certain behaviours are enacted within society and what influences the responses to them.
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:
Careers, industry and research
Our teaching
Designed to suit your lifestyle, flexibility and community are at the heart of our teaching. Study either full time or part time, with a combination of distance learning and face-to-face contact including:
- Introductory workshops
- Symposia
- Podcasts
- Online discussion
- Self-directed study
- Range of assessment methods
Research projects
Engage in contemporary, relevant and applied criminological research, through the completion of your dissertation.
Pursue your own research idea or work on one of a number of existing research questions.
Collaborate on one of our strategic partnerships with regional, national and international criminal justice agencies and rights organisations.
Crime, Justice and Society Research Group
The Crime, Justice and Society research group facilitates inter-disciplinary research with crime and social harm at its centre. The group aims to identify, explore and explain key directions of change in the context of regional, national and global impact.
The group is organised around three core themes which illustrate the breadth of research within the group:
- Crime, culture and society
- Governance, penality and policing
- Vulnerability and inequality
Facilities
Investigate 'The Murder House' Crime Suite
Examine simulated crime scenes and real missing persons cases
Learn by doing in scenarios that are based on real-life investigations in our state-of-the-art crime, interview and simulated policing suite. You'll be able to explore physical crime scenes, harvest forensic material, learn and practise police interview techniques and analyse CCTV footage.
The unique combination of immersive learning and our staff expertise sets us apart as the only university in the South West peninsula providing this exceptional student experience.
Meet your lecturers
Dr Chris Pac-Soo
Lecturer in Criminology (Education)
Dr Katie McBride
Lecturer in Criminology
Dr Sian Lewis
Lecturer in Criminology
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the Â鶹´«Ã½ is about more than just getting a qualification — it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options — including part-time and January start dates — you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Â鶹´«Ã½ offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
Postgraduate student
Postgraduate student
Your Â鶹´«Ã½ community
At the Â鶹´«Ã½, you get the same access to support, sports, and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Â鶹´«Ã½ community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer — get involved, stay connected, and make the most of your time here.
Enrich your studies with the Postgrad Society
The Postgrad Society welcomes all postgraduate students – whether full-time, part-time, taught or research-based – offering a supportive space to connect beyond academic pressures. Join a vibrant community where you can unwind, celebrate achievements and meet likeminded peers through a wide range of activities – from pub quizzes, movie nights and beach cleans to trips along the South West coastal path and the annual Postgraduate Christmas Ball.
Events are thoughtfully planned around key postgraduate milestones and often in collaboration with other societies, so you can try new things and make the most of your university experience.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£10,600 per year
£10,600 per year
Part-time study
£590 per 10 credits
£590 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£18,700 per year
£18,700 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate at Â鶹´«Ã½, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for Â鶹´«Ã½ graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Â鶹´«Ã½, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
You should have a second-class honours degree or equivalent, or an equivalent professional qualification. Other qualifications accompanied by substantial experience in an appropriate field may also be considered. Non-standard applications will be considered on a case by case basis.
Personal statement
Applicants are required to submit a personal statement within the application form that addresses the following questions: Why are you suitable to study at this level? Why do you want to study criminology at Â鶹´«Ã½? What is your specific area of interest? What do you hope to achieve?
Applicants are required to submit a personal statement within the application form that addresses the following questions: Why are you suitable to study at this level? Why do you want to study criminology at Â鶹´«Ã½? What is your specific area of interest? What do you hope to achieve?
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½
Â鶹´«Ã½
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Contact the Faculty International Team
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
register your interest in studying with us in 2026.
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the Â鶹´«Ã½ or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you apply
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location
Â鶹´«Ã½
Â鶹´«Ã½
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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