Program Overview

Introduction to Criminology

Unit Description

The unit introduces the study of criminology, including a broad overview of key developments, theories, and practical implications. It seeks to situate criminology within its particular social, political, and intellectual contexts and outline some of the key approaches associated with the field. The study of crime is recognized as the study of power, injustice, as well as social, cultural, and economic marginalization.

General Information

• Unit Convenor and Teaching Staff: Alex Simpson
• Credit Points: 10
• Prerequisites: None
• Corequisites: None
• Co-badged Status: None
• Unit Description: As described above

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

• Evaluate how societies come to define crime and the critical implications of such understandings on institutions of criminal justice.
• Identify and distinguish between key criminological theories and their practical implications.
• Analyse and demonstrate critical understanding of how social categories of gender, race, and class impact experiences of crime and its responses.
• Locate and research different academic sources and express articulate judgement about their validity.
• Engage in informed criminological discussion with practitioners, academics, and peers.

Assessment Tasks

• Vlog Task: 25% - Students will create a 5-10 minute vlog on a given criminological concern.
• Poster Design: 35% - Students will create one poster and a 500-word description that responds to their essay topic.
• Major Essay: 40% - Students will build on their poster to complete a 2,000-word essay.

Delivery and Resources

• Unit Requirements and Expectations: Students should spend an average of 12 hours per week on this unit, including listening to lectures, reading weekly required materials, participating in discussion forums, and preparing assessments.
• Required Readings: Available to enrolled students through the unit iLearn site and at Macquarie University's library site.
• Technology Used and Required: Computer and internet access are essential. Basic computer skills and word processing skills are also required.

Policies and Procedures

• Academic Appeals Policy
• Academic Integrity Policy
• Academic Progression Policy
• Assessment Policy
• Fitness to Practice Procedure
• Assessment Procedure
• Complaints Resolution Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
• Special Consideration Policy

Student Support

• Academic Success: Provides resources to develop English language proficiency, academic writing, and communication skills.
• The Library: Offers online and face-to-face support to help find and use relevant information resources.
• Student Services and Support: Includes IT support, accessibility and disability support, mental health support, safety support, and social support.

Changes since First Published

• Date: 14/02/2025
• Description: The assessment week for the essay was changed from Week 10 to 11.