Study MA Comparative Criminology

Course Highlights

This Masters course allows you to explore many of the rich and varied components of comparative criminology through the focusing in turn on aspects of contemporary justice, social harms, violence, oppression, the penal system and its reform, transnational policing and past and current controversies in the criminal justice system. You will study these themes in depth under the care of tutors who have a keen interest in and expert knowledge of these fields.

The MA draws on a vast range of expertise and will prepare you for future research at doctoral level, as well as further developing your interpersonal and professional skills.

Its especial strength resides in the sustained combination of criminological, historical, policing and social science approaches and expertise made available to you by the course team. The sound grounding that you will have acquired by the time of completion will provide the skills and the confidence to consider and seek opportunities in public and private sector research-based employment, as well as a wide range of jobs within academia, customs and excise, border control, policing etc. to name but a few examples.

In preparation for future employment, an optional Work Placement module is available in which you will have the opportunity to undertake accredited work-based activities and experiences which will give you the opportunity to reflect on and apply the skills and knowledge learned on the course in a practical situation.

Course Modules

• Year 1

Learning Structure

Demonstrate self-direction and originality in tackling and solving problems and act autonomously in planning and implementing tasks at a professional or equivalent level.

Demonstrate originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in the discipline.

Deal with complex issues both systematically and creatively, make sound judgements in the absence of complete data, and communicate your conclusions clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of techniques applicable to your own research or advanced scholarship and ability to continue to advance your knowledge and understanding, and to develop new skills to a high level.

Demonstrate a systematic understanding of knowledge, and a critical awareness of current problems and/or new insights, much of which is at, or informed by, the forefront of your academic discipline, field of study or area of professional practice with a conceptual understanding that enables the student.

Entry Requirements

• An honours degree or equivalent in a Humanities-based subject with CGPA 2.75 or 55% of marks (or above) from recognised institution.

English Language Requirements

Documentary Evidence List

• Academic transcripts (Bachelor degree)
• Degree certificate
• English test (IELTS/ TOEFL/ PTE/ Duolingo - UKVI accepted)
• Statement of Purpose (SOP)
• 2 Recommendation Letters (LORs)
• Updated CV/ Resume
• Research Proposal (for Research/ PhD)
• Work experience certificate(s) (if study gap)
• Passport copy

Study Gaps

For applicants with an academic or professional gap of up to 5 years, admission is generally considered acceptable. If the gap exceeds this period, applications may still be successful but will typically be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

To strengthen your profile, it is important to:

• Provide a clear explanation of how you spent the gap period (e.g., employment, further learning, personal responsibilities).
• Emphasize the skills and experiences you developed during this time that are relevant to the program.
• Demonstrate that your academic qualifications continue to meet the course entry requirements.