It prepares graduates for careers in policy-making, offender management, crime reduction, and other fields related to criminal justice and forensic psychology. The program features core modules in investigative and legal processes, understanding crime, and research methods, along with elective modules in penology and victimology.

It explores formal responses to criminal behavior, including policing, punishment, rehabilitation, and social control strategies. The program also examines the criminalization process and critically analyzes crime reduction methods.

Outline:

• Full-Time Structure:
• Year 1:
• Three core modules
• One elective module
• Dissertation
• Part-Time Structure:
• Year 1:
• Two core modules
• One elective module (can be taken in either Year 1 or Year 2)
• Year 2:
• One core module
• Dissertation
• Core Modules:
Students gain a critical understanding of how psychology can be applied to enhance investigative practices and courtroom processes. Students apply this theoretical knowledge to study various criminal trajectories, including youth crime, professional crime, white-collar crime, and sexual offenses.
• Dissertation Research Methods and Professional Practice (30 Credits): This module prepares students for conducting independent research.
It covers research methodologies, data collection and analysis, and the application of research skills to specific areas of inquiry.
• Criminology Dissertation (60 Credits): This module allows students to engage in a detailed study on a topic of their choice, demonstrating their ability to apply criminological perspectives and skills.
They can opt for either a theoretical study (library-based) or an empirical investigation, culminating in a comprehensive research report.
• Elective Modules:

Assessment:

• Coursework: 100% of the assessment is based on coursework.
This may include essays, reports, presentations, self-assessments, portfolios, and the dissertation.
• Feedback: Students receive feedback on their assessments within 20 working days.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• Timetabled Learning and Teaching:
This encompasses lectures, seminars, workshops, and group discussions.
• Guided Independent Study: Students are expected to engage in independent learning outside of timetabled sessions, including reading journal articles, books, preparing assignments and presentations, and preparing for exams.
• Faculty: The teaching team consists of experienced academics and professional practitioners with industry experience.
• Unique Approaches:
• Assessment Centre Experience:
Students participate in an Assessment Centre Experience, which helps them develop their employability skills for the graduate job market.
• Kingston's Location: Kingston's location provides access to criminal justice institutions, including courts, prisons, and community-based crime reduction programs, allowing students to observe the system in operation.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: The program prepares graduates for careers in various fields, working for both public and private organizations.
Potential career areas include:
• Policy-making
• Offender management
• Crime reduction
• Multi-agency partnership work
• Security and policing
• Criminological research
• Local and national government
• Advocacy and policy-based organizations
• Recent Graduate Outcomes: Graduates have secured employment in policing, victim and witness services, prisons, the military, counter-terrorism, and security.

Other:

• Kingston's Department of Criminology, Politics, and Sociology: This department offers a vibrant research culture and a diverse faculty.
Students have opportunities for hands-on learning experiences beyond the classroom.
• Class Sizes: Students are part of a small cohort, allowing for dedicated academic guidance and the development of a strong professional network.

Home 2025/26 MA full time £11,400 MA part time £6,270 International 2025/26 MA full time £18,700 MA part time £10,285 Home 2024/25 MA full time £10,900 MA part time £5,995 International 2024/25 MA full time £17,900 MA part time £9,845

Kingston University

Overview:

Kingston University London is a UK-based university recognized for its high-quality teaching and student experience. It features in the QS World University Rankings league table of the world's top universities.

Services Offered:

Kingston University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Academic Support:

Guidance and resources for academic success.

Career Services:

Support in finding internships, jobs, and career development.

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus housing options for students.

Wellbeing Services:

Mental health support, counseling, and other resources.

International Student Support:

Dedicated services for international students, including visa assistance and cultural integration programs.

Library and Learning Resources:

Extensive library facilities and online learning resources.

Student Union:

A vibrant student union with clubs, societies, and social events.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Kingston University provides a dynamic and engaging campus experience. Students can expect:

Active Student Union:

Opportunities to join clubs, societies, and participate in social events.

Vibrant Campus Life:

A lively campus environment with a range of activities and events.

Supportive Community:

A welcoming and supportive community of students and staff.

Location Advantages:

Located in Kingston upon Thames, a historic town with excellent transport links to London.

Key Reasons to Study There:

TEF Gold Rating:

Recognized for its high-quality teaching and outstanding student experience.

Future Skills Focus:

Emphasis on developing future-ready skills through embedded modules in all undergraduate courses.

Strong Industry Links:

Close connections with businesses and industries, providing opportunities for internships and career development.

Diverse and Inclusive Environment:

Committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion.

Academic Programs:

Undergraduate Study:

A wide range of undergraduate programs across various disciplines.

Postgraduate Study:

Master's and doctoral programs in various fields.

Research:

Active research programs with a focus on areas like healthcare, technology, and the arts.

Higher and Degree Apprenticeships:

Opportunities to combine work and study through apprenticeships.