Program Overview

MA Applied Criminology

The MA Applied Criminology program at Manchester Metropolitan University offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of criminology, focusing on real-world applications and research. This program is designed for individuals interested in pursuing a career in criminal justice, research, or related fields.

Course Overview

The MA Applied Criminology program is a one-year full-time or two-year part-time course that provides students with a deep understanding of criminological theory, research methods, and practice. The program includes core modules such as Dissertation, Methods, and Theory, as well as optional modules like Impact, Justice, Placement, Practice, and Substance Use, Theory and Practice.

Core Modules

• Dissertation: This module allows students to conduct their own research project under the guidance of a supervisor, developing autonomous learning skills and applying knowledge acquired throughout the degree.
• Methods: This module provides advanced research methods training, covering qualitative and quantitative methods, philosophy of social science, and practical challenges of delivering research.
• Theory: This module explores criminological theory, explaining crime, deviance, and victimization through an integrated approach that draws from various disciplines.

Option Modules

• Impact: This module examines how substance use research can benefit wider society, including national drug policy, public services, charities, and individuals.
• Justice: This module offers a critical assessment of contemporary criminal justice and injustice, considering offenders, victims, and the public.
• Placement: Students undertake a project-based placement with an organization operating in an area relevant to criminology, gaining hands-on experience and critically reflecting on the experience.
• Practice: This module explores the delivery of criminal justice in practice by various agencies, including statutory and non-statutory organizations.
• Substance Use, Theory and Practice: This module develops students' knowledge of contemporary responses to substance use, including policy, treatment models, and theories.

Study and Assessment

• Full-time: 20% lectures, seminars, or similar; 5% placement; 75% independent study.
• Part-time: 20% lectures, seminars, or similar; 5% placement; 75% independent study.
• Assessment: 100% coursework; 0% practical; 0% examination.

Entry Requirements

• A 2:2 (or higher) UK undergraduate honors degree (or international equivalent) in criminology or a related field.
• A postgraduate diploma or a professional qualification recognized as equivalent to an honors degree.
• IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 (no less than 5.5 in any category) for overseas applicants.

Fees and Funding

• UK and Channel Island students: Full-time fee £10,250 per year; part-time fee £1,709 per 30 credits.
• EU and non-EU international students: Full-time fee £20,000 per year; part-time fee £3,334 per 30 credits.
• Scholarships and funding opportunities are available for eligible students.

Careers Support and Prospects

The program aims to equip students with skills to progress to higher research programs or expand career opportunities within criminal justice and related agencies. Previous graduates have pursued careers in probation, policing, prisons, drug services, research, and teaching. The university's Careers Service provides support and resources to help students achieve their career goals.

Research Areas

The Department of Sociology at Manchester Metropolitan University is home to several research centers, including the Manchester Centre for Youth Studies, the Policy Evaluation and Research Unit, the Drugs, Policy and Social Change Centre, and the Crime and Wellbeing Big Data Centre. These centers provide opportunities for students to engage in research activities and collaborate with experts in the field.