Program Overview

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MSc Criminology & Social Policy

The MSc Criminology & Social Policy is a postgraduate program designed to provide students with a critical and nuanced understanding of criminology, criminal justice, and social policy. The program is delivered by a dynamic team of international scholars with globally recognized expertise in Criminology.

Key Facts

• Start date: January
• Study mode and duration: On campus, 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time

Study with Us

This course will provide you with a critical and nuanced understanding of criminology, criminal justice, and social policy, and of the wider political, economic, and social context within which criminological research takes place. You'll be taught social science research methods, alongside key issues, theories, and debates in criminology, social and penal policy, and practice, schooling you in cutting-edge knowledge across these arenas.

Why this Course

Designed and delivered by a dynamic team of international scholars with globally recognized expertise in Criminology, this course fosters an inclusive learning environment to provide you with a critical understanding of contemporary theories, issues, and debates in criminology, criminal justice, and social and penal policy.

Course Content

This program offers six taught modules alongside a Master's dissertation.

Major Projects

You'll have the opportunity to apply your learning and develop or enhance your research skills by undertaking a small research project in this field (dissertation in criminology), of your choosing, and participate in related knowledge exchange and public engagement activities.

• Compulsory
• Optional

Modules

• The Contexts of Criminal Justice Research
• Contemporary Issues in Criminology
• Prisons, Power & Punishment
• Qualitative Research Methods
• Dissertation in Criminology
• Perspectives on Social Research
• Welfare Concepts and Ideas
• Approaches to Welfare: Past, Present and Future
• International Social Work: Themes and Perspectives
• Feminism, Gender & Violence

Learning & Teaching

Across the modules, classes will comprise a mixture of lectures, seminars, group discussion, and self-directed learning.

Assessment

The distinct modules will be assessed using a variety of standard (for example, written assignments, examinations) and innovative, digital, and creative methods applied across collective and individual projects.

Entry Requirements

• Academic requirements: A first or upper second class degree, or overseas equivalent, in social sciences or related discipline. Applicants with other qualifications together with relevant professional experience may be considered.
• English language requirements: If English is not your first language, we require IELTS 6.5 with no elements below 5.5.

Fees & Funding

• Republic of Ireland: If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status.
• Scotland, England, Wales & Northern Ireland: Full time - £9,550, Part-time* - £4,775
• International: £21,550
• Available scholarships: Take a look at our scholarships search for funding opportunities.
• Additional costs: International students may have associated visa and immigration costs.

Careers

This course is designed to appeal to:

• Prospective students wishing to progress to post-graduate study, and provides an important platform for further progression to PhD study in Criminology or Justice Social Work
• Those wishing to move into or advance their professional careers across justice-related disciplines (for example, policing, prisons, and social work) or progress into senior management within a Local Authority or other public, third, or private sector organizations
• Those seeking a career in social science research within research organizations, charities, pressures/lobbying groups, independent or third sector organizations, and central or local government

Our Academics

• Cara Jardine, Senior Lecturer
• Laura Piacentini, Professor of Criminology
• Beth Weaver, Professor of Criminal & Social Justice

Student Testimonial

I feel very lucky to continue my studies in criminology at Strathclyde. As an international student, the warm welcomes and encouragement I have received from both the faculty and my peers have made the transition easier. I am grateful to be surrounded by a community of supportive, knowledgeable, kind, and diverse people who have enhanced my experience.

Emma Christensen, PhD Criminology

Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences Scholarships

EU Engagement Scholarships are available to EU applicants who would have previously been eligible for Home (Scottish/EU) fee status.