Masters Degrees (Criminal Investigation)

You develop your knowledge of contemporary theory and practices in criminal investigation, relevant legislation, and information relating to criminal justice studies and criminal law. This cross-disciplinary programme develops your intellectual capability and enhances your understanding of criminal justice both national and international.

Course details

Inter-disciplinary by nature, this course incorporates the knowledge of staff with practical experience of investigation, law and research whilst offering a strong academic base. It has a clear focus which merges theory and practice and emphasises the importance of relevant legislation, policies and practices, linking them to the overall theme exploring criminal investigation.

This programme includes a dissertation module which enables you to focus on an aspect of investigation which is of particular interest you, relevant to criminal investigation, but potentially in relation to an area not taught within the programme.

What you study

Core modules
-Dissertation
-Legal Aspects of Investigating Crime
-Social Research Methods
-The Practice of Major Crime Investigation

And one optional module
-Comparative Law and Criminal Justice
-European Responses to Crime
-Investigation of Organised Crime

Teaching

Teaching is student-centred to develop your understanding of theory, practice and presentation.

The programme commences with a three-day block induction period to enable you to meet staff and be introduced to the programme. You then begin a blended learning programme, which involves studying both in the classroom (one evening and one half day) and independently via on-line learning. This increases the flexibility of the programme and it is anticipated this combined approach of on-line study, evening and daytime study offers sufficient flexibility to fit into most lifestyles, whilst offering the benefit of the socialising aspects of group study. It also encourages the development of independent learning skills at an earlier stage in the programme, in readiness for research tasks.

These teaching methods offer you the opportunity to develop subject-specific knowledge and understanding, developing your cognitive-intellectual, practical-professional and generic key skills.

Your research skills are developed during the research module and further developed through the course, enabling you to conduct your research successfully towards more specialist fields of enquiry for your dissertation.

The programme involves high levels of personal responsibility and self-direction. It requires you to work with complex knowledge, theory and concepts appropriate to postgraduate studies. On the completion of this course, you should be able to plan, manage and evaluate your own learning effectively so as to become an independent lifelong learner.

Formative assessment is ongoing throughout each module, either via on-line tasks or by classroom tasks, offering you feedback to assist you to develop your skills.

This programme adopts a wide range of formal assessment methods which assists you to achieve the learning outcomes and to evaluate the effectiveness of your learning. Essays and other forms of writing are commonly used. These assess your analytical, evaluative and communication skills. Presentations allow you to demonstrate a critical and systematic understanding of the key subject matter.

Seen examinations test your knowledge and information retention as well as your fluency. You are required to undertake appropriate criminal investigation-related research. The dissertation gives you the opportunity to demonstrate an appropriate standard of research and enquiry into a specialised area of investigation, displaying an analytical discussion of that area.

Employability

Graduates are equipped to work within, or progress their existing careers in, the criminal justice institutions, such as the police, prison and probation services, other investigation-related institutions and organisations, and relevant private sectors.

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Study Policing and Criminal Investigation at LJMU and work with crime victims and witnesses to enhance your knowledge and key skills in this area.

-Commences January 2017
-Explore investigative issues to gain the knowledge and practical skills to operate as a crime investigator in serious and complex cases
-Consider the links between investigation, forensics and psychology
-Work with crime victims and witnesses
-Ideal for serving officers and those about to embark on their policing or academic career
-Excellent employment opportunities in policing/investigative work, private investigation and with bodies such as Trading Standards and the Inland Revenue
-A valuable foundation for progression to PhD

The MSc Policing and Criminal Investigation combines supervised independent research with specialist training in research methods and academic skills, while also helping students become aware of emerging approaches currently practiced in the discipline.
​Over the course of the programme you will be introduced to key developments in policing studies and given the skills necessary to produce a successful postgraduate research project. You will work individually with a supervisor throughout the year, as well as taking part in taught modules with fellow Policing Studies students and/or students from other disciplines/Faculties. In addition, you will be part of the wider research activities of the Liverpool Centre for Advanced Policing Studies.

You will receive specialist supervision and study within a diverse community of fellow researchers. Staff are active in a wide range of fields including: Crime Prevention, GIS, People Trafficking, Public Order, Mental Health, Multi Agency and Partnership Working in the Public Sector, Computer Crime, Investigation, Terrorism and Counter-terrorism, Port Security, Risk Management and Education.

What you will study on this degree

Please see guidance below on core modules:

Policing in Context

Gain insights into current policing, community safety and criminal justice priorities by exploring different perspectives that relate to policing, regulatory processes, professional values and ethics

Advanced Research Skills

In preparation for your dissertation, this module introduces key epistemological and methodological issues that impact upon research into crime, security, community safety and criminal justice

Advanced Investigation Skills

Examine the administrative difficulties posited during a criminal investigation and the importance of investigative ethics

Forensic and Medicolegal Death

Discover core foundational concepts of criminal investigations, enabling you to understand, explain, analyse and evaluate causes, sustainment and consequences of processing a death scene

Forensic Cognition

Critically explore why offenders commit acts of sexual and physical violence by examining influential theories that have been developed to aid in investigating sexual/violent offences

Investigative Interviewing

Examine current practices, techniques and applications of police interviewing by being exposed to comparative international techniques in interviewing, interpretation of verbal and physical behaviour, causes of denial, deception and defensiveness

Dissertation

Analyse and interpret an issue in your chosen field

​Further guidance on modules

The information listed in the section entitled 'What you will study' is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal Academic Framework review, so may be subject to change. Students will be required to undertake modules that the University designates as core and will have a choice of designated option modules. Additionally, option modules may be offered subject to meeting minimum student numbers.

Academic Framework reviews are conducted by LJMU from time to time to ensure that academic standards continue to be maintained.

Please email [email protected] if you require further guidance or clarification.

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The MSc has been designed to provide an in-depth study of Criminal Investigation, and develop critical and analytical skills involving the principles, practices and techniques of Criminal Investigation.

The aims of the programmes are to; equip students with the knowledge and practical skills to operate as a crime investigator and manager in serious and complex cases, develop critical and analytical skills involving the principles, practices and techniques of crime investigation in serious and complex cases, develop competence in research methods and the presentation of information, develop skills in solving problems both independently and as a team member commensurate with Level 7.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

This course is available in full-time, part-time and distance learning modes. Computing Facilities are available in the general computing suites found within the building and throughout campus. Extensive Resources are available to support your studies, you are advised to take advantage of the free training sessions provided by the library & training team designed to enable you to gain all the skills you need for your research and study.

The library provides access to a huge range of electronic resources – e-journals and databases, e-books, images and texts.

Course and module materials are not provided in ‘hard copy’ format, however, wherever practicable, lecture notes and/or presentations, seminar materials, assignment briefs and materials and other relevant information and resources are made available in electronic form via eLearn. This is the brand name for the online Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) that the University uses to support and enhance teaching and learning.

All students can access the eLearn spaces for the course and modules that they are registered for. Once logged into your eLearn area you can access material from the course and all of the modules you are studying.

FURTHER INFORMATION

The course is offered in weekly six-hour blocks which enables professionals in the field to take the degree more easily. It is aimed that students will have access to, and use, case management software supplied by Xanalys©, which is used by police forces internationally to administer complex investigations. Students will also be exposed to learning opportunities in our “HYDRA” immersive learning suite, used by many emergency services to prepare their senior officers to handle major incidents.

The course is assessed entirely by a variety of coursework assignments such as essays, reports and presentations. Every effort is made to spread the assessments in the interests of students; but, inevitably, assessments do tend to have deadlines at the end of semesters, so students are advised to plan and make early starts on assessed work so as to avoid problems in this context.

Semester 1 of the course is designed to ensure that you have the basic skills needed to obtain an MSc. It is important that you develop a range of skills that will be of benefit when you gain employment after the course. The main skills that you are developing will be in the areas of presentations, report writing, and problem solving.

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Taking a unique approach to studying investigative practices, this MSc equips you with knowledge and skills for the many fields which demand high levels of professional investigation expertise.

• Advance your investigative career in law enforcement, finance, health and safety, social services and many other sectors
• Develop the skills you need to conduct serious and complex investigations from beginning to end
• Study for a qualification which reflects the Professionalising Investigation Programme (PIP) occupational standards
• Choose specialist options in areas such as cybercrime, financial crime and organised crime to build on your knowledge of mainstream investigations
• Learn from an influential team of researchers and practitioners who draw upon more than a century of professional experience in investigation
• Study full time or part time to suit your personal circumstances.

Innovative and stimulating, this course combines academic rigour and practical experience to nurture high-calibre, confident and forward-thinking investigation professionals.

A broad appeal

This MSc is designed to appeal to graduates from traditional academic backgrounds as well as serving investigation professionals from across the world. We welcome applicants with substantial and relevant professional experience who may not have an undergraduate degree or equivalent qualification.

Meeting professional standards

Ensuring greater professionalism in investigation procedures is crucial to meet public expectations for effective and efficient policing and justice. This MSc helps investigators to extend their skills while enabling the organisations that rely on investigations to enhance their performance.

The course has been introduced at a time when professionalisation in policing is a commonly agreed target of all police forces, the College of Policing and the National Crime Agency. In developing this programme, we have aligned it to initiatives such as the Professionalising Investigation Programme (PIP), which is jointly sponsored by the National Police Chiefs’ Council and the College of Policing.

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Take advantage of one of our 100 Master’s Scholarships to study Applied Criminal Justice and Criminology at Swansea University, the Times Good University Guide’s Welsh University of the Year 2017. Postgraduate loans are also available to English and Welsh domiciled students. For more information on fees and funding please visit our website.

The Department of Criminology at Swansea University has run a successful MA in Applied Criminal Justice and Criminology since 1997. Students of the Applied Criminal Justice and Criminology will have the opportunity to learn about crime, the criminal justice system and cutting edge themes in criminology from leading experts in the field. The MA in Applied Criminal Justice and Criminology specialises in the application of criminological knowledge to the workings of the Criminal Justice System and this is strongly reflected in the exciting range of diverse and cutting-edge modules on offer.

The MA in Applied Criminal Justice and Criminology focuses mainly on the application of knowledge to the operation of the criminal justice system, reflecting the policy/ practice orientation of members of the staff team.

Whether you are a practitioner working in the criminal justice system, a researcher wishing to gain a firm foundation for a research degree in an ESRC recognised Doctoral Training Centre, or an undergraduate aspiring to a career in criminal justice, our Masters-level degree in Applied Criminal Justice and Criminology is for you! The MA in Applied Criminal Justice and Criminology offers you:

• an up-to-date and high quality programme which includes some of the most important theory and research in criminal justice and criminology
• an opportunity to develop your ability to apply criminal justice and criminological knowledge to research and the operation of the criminal justice system
• an opportunity to develop and apply research methods knowledge and skills
• enhanced employability for those wishing to pursue a career in the criminal justice system and for those interested in an academic or research career

Modules

Modules on the MA in Applied Criminal Justice and Criminology typically include:

• Ethics and Philosophy of Social Research
• Quantitative Methods
• Qualitative Methods
• Case Studies in Applied Social Research
• Data Visualisation
• Crime, Drugs and Alcohol
• Gender, Crime and Criminal Justice
• Applied Criminal Justice
• Understanding Policing
• Youth Justice: Research, Policy & Practice
• Criminal Justice System in England and Wales
• Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children
• Human Trafficking

Careers and Employability

The MA in Applied Criminal Justice & Criminology will open the door to a range of careers, including: Local Government, Police Force, Prison Service, Social Work, Victim Support, Teaching, and Probation Service to name a few. Enhancing your career prospects whilst studying on this course, you will have a wealth of opportunities to take advantage of in order to boost your CV and form important employment links for the future.

Additional Information

Every student is allocated a Personal Tutor who offers academic and pastoral care throughout the student’s stay in Swansea. Several lecturers invite senior criminal justice practitioners, managers, and policy makers to deliver lectures on key aspects of criminal justice policy and practice. The Department of Criminology also ensures that MA in Applied Criminal Justice & Criminology students participate in social events through the Criminology Society which organises events that give students opportunities to socialise and meet others in the Department of Criminology. There may also be placement and research internship opportunities available to students (subject to availability). Research internships provide opportunities for students to observe practices in a criminal justice agency and then produce their dissertation on a topic that is relevant to the work of the agency.

Student Quotes

- Christie Owen, MA in Applied Criminal Justice and Criminology graduate 2010 -11

“There are a range of different modules covering a broad spectrum of subjects. Helpful tutoring means that those who have not studied Criminology previously will find the subject easy to pick up. There are plenty of approachable staff and lecturers to seek advice if you are unsure. Lectures are well structured with scope for debate with your peers and lecturers, as well as informative media such as videos and power point presentations. There is continuous mentoring while completing dissertations, with supervisors engaging well with students and aiding them in making it more manageable. Supervisors are continuously available to answer any questions or solve any problems that arise while writing such a large piece of work. The library services are also extremely helpful, with access to many books, journals and the internet with a room specifically for postgraduates which is very much needed during busier periods.

The Masters degree in Criminology encouraged me to pursue a career in the Prison Service. After graduating I was offered a position following my first interview and the course has given me skills to use in my new position.”

- Peter Doyle, MA in Applied Criminal Justice and Criminology graduate

Retired Detective Chief Inspector and Senior Investigating Officer Peter, from Kenfig near Porthcawl, had specialised in Homicide and Serious Crime Investigation and has an extensive background in Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE) investigation.

“The course was challenging for me as I do not possess a first degree – a particular challenge was writing in an academic style. I overcame the challenges by applying practice and more practice – plus support from those within the College and my family. I believe the key is not worrying about every mistake you make but learning from them instead.

“I chose Swansea University because it has an excellent reputation for criminology studies and I also worked in Swansea for many years as a police officer. It was a great honour to meet people on my course from such a wide spectrum and of all ages – this was very inspiring, I was made to feel welcome by everyone involved.”

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Cybercrime is a relatively new and growing area for both civil and criminal investigation. This course has been developed by law enforcement practitioners to enhance knowledge and practical skills in the areas of behavioural psychology, criminal investigation and the technical aspects of obtaining computer-based evidence.

Aimed at personal professional development for current investigators in the criminal and private sector and as a natural progression for graduates in Computer Forensics, Psychology or Policing.

Modules include Research Skills, Behavioural Dynamics of Cybercrime, Digital Forensic Technology, Open Source Internet Investigation, Policing of cybercrime and a research project for your dissertation.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

The course is taught as a combination of lectures, practicals and self-directed study to understand criminal behaviour in the area of cybercrime, including the use of computers, mobile devices, networks and open source internet intelligence in a cybercrime investigation. Module assessments are undertaken by means of coursework, workshops, examination and dissertation.

The course is delivered and taught by experienced academics and former law enforcement investigators with specialist knowledge in computing, psychology and criminal investigation.

FACILITIES

-Computer Forensic Laboratory
-Well-developed plans for a Hydra Suite

OPPORTUNITIES

A range of potential careers are available to those studying MSc Cybercrime including working in the fields of Policing,Civil investigation, the military, and National Crime Agency.

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Overview

Are you fascinated by criminology? Hoping to increase your suitability for higher level positions within the criminal justice sector? Southampton Solent University’s postgraduate criminology and criminal justice programme will help you to develop an advanced understanding of the contemporary issues and debates surrounding criminal justice institutions, crime and criminal punishment.

- The course is delivered by an experienced course team with established links to criminal justice agencies, private businesses and charities.
- The teaching team are active researchers and have contributed internationally renowned research projects.
- Students study contemporary and comparative criminology, criminal justice and essential human science research skills.
- Students can also tailor the degree to their own unique career ambitions, picking from optional units in penology, international policing, historic crime, drugs and terror security.
- Optional study trips are available throughout the year, including an unfunded visit to the USA.
- The course concludes with a final research project, where students will research and write a unique dissertation under the guidance of a specialist supervisor.
- Many students focus their dissertation on the area of criminology in which they would like to work, using it to demonstrate their knowledge to employers after graduation.
- Students benefit from small class sizes and regular one-to-one support.

The industry -

Whether you want to work in the social support and welfare sector, in the justice system or with relevant charities - your understanding of criminology and criminal justice will give you the opportunity to make a positive impact on people’s lives.

This is an essential degree for many careers in these sectors, but can also help with a range of roles in other industries. These include various applied and research-based roles that focus on helping people with social or personal issues and supporting the rehabilitation of offenders.

The programme -

Students on Southampton Solent University’s postgraduate criminology and criminal justice programme study the core curriculum alongside a choice of two specialist units. This chance to specialise is important, helping students to orient their knowledge towards specific roles in the criminal justice sector.

This programme also encourages students to develop a range of transferable interpersonal and verbal communication skills through presentations, role-plays, debates, interviews and group work. These competencies are valued in a wide range of industries.

To find out more about the content of each specific unit, please see the ‘course content’ tab.
Enrichment activities and learning opportunities are available alongside the core curriculum, giving students the chance to learn from guest speakers, visit criminal justice organisations and network at industry events. These additional activities help to provide detailed insights into the criminal justice system and the careers it offers. Past speakers have come from the police, courts, prisons, probation services, youth justice services and cyber security firms.

The course team themselves have had extensive experience of the criminal justice system and its related disciplines, providing students with unique personal insights. The ties they have with the professional world have helped past students secure volunteer placements, temporary paid work, work shadowing weeks and internships.

Course Content

Programme specification document - http://mycourse.solent.ac.uk/course/view.php?id=6152

Teaching, learning and assessment -

The course is taught through lectures, group work and projects, and supervision for independent writing and research.

You will be allocated a personal tutor and a dissertation research supervisor.

Work experience -

Past students have completed a wide range of interesting and informative placements with:

- the Association of Chief Police Officers Criminal Records Office
- the criminal justice sector (paid work)
- witness and victim services
- probation services
- youth offending teams
- voluntary positions in the criminal justice field.

Assessment -

You will participate in group work, independent writing and research, group projects and discussions. You will be assessed via a number of 3,500-word assignments and individual and group presentations, in addition to a 20,000-word dissertation.
Study abroad
We run an optional ten-day study trip to the USA during the Christmas break, with visits to the FBI and New Jersey State Police.

There will be opportunities to attend lectures and share views and ideas with students at Ocean County College and Monmouth University. Please note this trip is not included in your tuition fees, and you’ll need to cover your travel and living costs.

Other study trip opportunities may also be available.

Web-based learning -

Solent’s virtual learning environment provides quick online access to assignments, lecture notes, suggested reading and other course information.

Why Solent?

What do we offer?

From a vibrant city centre campus to our first class facilities, this is where you can find out why you should choose Solent.

Facilities - http://www.solent.ac.uk/about/facilities/facilities.aspx

City living - http://www.solent.ac.uk/studying/southampton/living-in-southampton.aspx

Accommodation - http://www.solent.ac.uk/studying/accommodation/accommodation.aspx

Career Potential

With this internationally respected qualification, you’ll be well placed to pursue a variety of career opportunities.

Past graduates have pursued careers in police management, international law enforcement, the National Offender Management Service, financial security and academia.

Suitable roles for graduates include:

- Prison service
- Police
- Probation
- Courts
- Drugs services
- Security
- Public and private sector security and investigation
- Local government community safety

Links with industry -

We welcome regular guest lecturers who provide a detailed insight into working in the criminal justice sector and prospective career opportunities.

Recent speakers have included:

- serving and former police detectives in the Metropolitan and Hampshire Police
- serving chief officers from Hampshire and Dorset Police
- judges and magistrates
- staff from the National Crime Agency, the Association of Chief Police Officers, the National Offender Management Service and the Crown Prosecution Service.

Transferable skills -

You will gain a detailed understanding of criminological issues, which can be applied to many different careers. You will also develop your research and critical analysis skills and gain experience in communication, teamwork and leadership.

Further study -

The MSc provides a solid foundation for subsequent research at MPhil and PhD level.

Tuition fees

The tuition fees for the 2016/2017 academic year are:

UK and EU full-time fees: £5,665

International full-time fees: £12,380

UK and EU part-time fees, year one: £1,895

UK and EU part-time fees, year two: £3,790

International part-time fees: £6,190 per year

Graduation costs -

Graduation is the ceremony to celebrate the achievements of your studies. For graduates in 2015, there is no charge to attend graduation, but you will be required to pay for the rental of your academic gown (approximately £42 per graduate, depending on your award). You may also wish to purchase official photography packages, which range in price from £15 to £200+. Graduation is not compulsory, so if you prefer to have your award sent to you, there is no cost.
For more details, please visit: http://www.solent.ac.uk/studying/graduation/home.aspx

Next steps

Would you like to improve your career prospects within the criminal justice sector? With an expert teaching team, strong links with industry and a curriculum, tailored to suit your ambitions, Southampton Solent University’s postgraduate criminology and criminal justice programme could be the ideal next step towards your dream career.

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Why take this course?

This distance learning degree will develop your understanding of the internationalisation of criminal justice and the importance of comparative perspectives, for an informed broad-based understanding of international criminal justice in the contemporary context.

What will I experience?

On this course you can:

Study a curriculum that is responsive to the diverse international backgrounds of students
Examine national and international criminal justice with reference to international norms and standards of human rights and police ethics
Study the development of international and transnational offending from criminological, legal and political perspectives

What opportunities might it lead to?

This course supports entry to or promotion within careers that have an international policing context. This could include working for international criminal justice and law enforcement bodies such as Europol, Interpol and the International Office of Migration, or working as an investigators or administrator at international criminal tribunals. Alternatively, careers in private sector investigation or national/international non-governmental agencies would be open to you.

Module Details

On this course you will study:

International Justice: This unit covers concept of justice and the differing systems of criminal justice. You will also review the development and source of international norms and standards in criminal justice; the role, function and policy-making processes of international criminal justice bodies; the human rights system within United Nation and European Union criminal police and judicial cooperation.

Research Methods and Research Management: Research methods in crime, criminal justice and related settings include complex statistical modelling and analysis, surveys to establish self-reported offending and victimisation, in-depth interviews, ethnographies, as well as various forms of content, narrative and documentary analysis. This unit prepares you for your dissertation and will give you an overview of many of the possibilities, as well as directions on where to look for more information and ideas about particular techniques, approaches or issues. It covers structured literature reviews, the web and the methodology behind systematic reviews and meta-analysis.

Dissertation: You will conduct a small-scale 15,000-word research project, giving you the chance to demonstrate your achievement on the course as a whole. You will need to demonstrate your grasp of research design, methods and ethics, as well as your personal organisation and planning in the conduct of your criminal justice research-based project. You will choose you own topic taking into account academic advice and guidance as well as the broad parameters of the expertise of the Institute’s academic staff.

You will also choose two optional units from:

International and Transnational Offending

Contemporary Security in International Relations

Managing Justice and Security Organisations

International Fraud and Corruption

Cybercrime, Risk and Security Management (Campus Block Teaching)

Please note that all options are subject to minimum student numbers and may not all be available. The course structure may vary from year to year, but course content and learning opportunities will not be diminished by this.

Professional Accreditation

Through their studies students can also gain professional accreditation that could assist them in the development of their further career prospects. These opportunities are for 0 credit professional Units, in addition to their normal study programme. Opportunities include those from the:

College of Policing, with the Certificate of Knowledge in Policing (exempting them from parts of police training), subject to any additional requirements set down by the College of Policing.

Counter Fraud Professional Accreditation Board, as an Accredited Counter Fraud Technician (ACFTech), subject to additional requirements set down by the Counter Fraud Professional Accreditation Board

Counter Fraud Professional Accreditation Board, as an Accredited Counter Fraud Specialist (ACFS), subject to additional requirements set down by the Counter Fraud Professional Accreditation Board.

Programme Assessment

This course is delivered entirely over the web. You will have access to our virtual learning environment where the learning materials are hosted. These include specially authored online multimedia learning materials, online 'thematic debates' and a broad range of electronic texts that cater for a diverse range of student interests, professional backgrounds and geographic locations. Throughout the course you will also have access to your course leader via a virtual classroom as a group and for one-to-one tutorials via Skype.

Assessment will be in the form of academic essays, some assessment of online discussion contributions, research reports, a literature review and dissertation proposal focussed on your chosen project, and finally a 15,000-word dissertation. For each assignment full academic support is provided by an academic subject expert and you will be provided with an academic supervisor once you have identified the subject area for your research project.

Student Destinations

Students have enrolled on the award to further develop their professional expertise in the international criminal justice or international policing context, or to help support a career change or specialisation in this direction. Our students have included UK police, civil servants or private sector investigators either within or moving towards international and transnational criminal justice responsibilities.

Over the years, we have also attracted a wide variety of nationalities working for international criminal justice and law enforcement bodies. These have included those performing a variety of roles within Europol, Interpol, the International Office of Migration, or those working as investigators or administrators at international criminal tribunals.

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Our Major Crime Investigation and Management Masters has been designed to provide detectives, police officers/staff and others with the knowledge and skills to conduct and manage major crime investigations from start to finish.

Whether you’re simply fascinated by issues relating to crime or aspire to lead a major crime unit, this Masters degree provides a unique platform to hone management skills specifically tailored for significant criminal investigations.

Your studies will be underpinned by the latest international recognised research in the field undertaken by the Centre for Criminology at the University. Many of our staff are research active and have expertise in homicide and major crime investigations - working in collaboration with police and senior crime detectives all over the world. For you, this means not only will you be taught by academics who are leading their field, but you’ll hear from guest speakers who are actively involved in delivering the course and will be able to share their experiences of criminal investigations.

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/1851-msc-major-crime-investigation-and-management

You’ll gain an in-depth understanding of the diverse nature and range of major crime investigations throughout the course. Building up your knowledge and investigatory skills in every facet of crime investigation, you’ll develop an advanced understanding of the characteristics and causes of difficult-to-solve homicides, an appreciation of evidence and theory around ‘failed’ and successful investigations, the gathering and managing of data, intelligence, and scientific evidence.

A key element to your studies will also focus around aspects involved in managing and conducting major investigations, from managing small and large investigative teams to working with external agencies including forensic science providers and the media.

The course has a strong theoretical foundation and will include research methods training that will develop your with critical and analytical skills. This means you’ll be better equipped to make sense of large volumes of complex data and intelligence – a typical characteristic of modern day major crime investigation.

Taught by a team of lecturers with long-standing expertise in the field, you will learn through a mix of lectures, seminars and tutorials. The teaching team comprises of active researchers in the theory and practice of criminal investigation, so you’ll benefit from being taught by staff at the forefront of their subject.

The University has an established Criminal Investigation Research Network (CIRN), led by Professor Fiona Brookman that brings together leading academics, senior investigating officers and practitioners - ensuring your learning is informed by the latest development in the field. An important feature of your studies will be hearing directly from those with distinct professional experiences of, and in some cases diverse roles within, police investigations.

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In the Times Good University Guide 2012 Dundee Law School was placed 7th in the United Kingdom law school rankings, and we were ranked 1st in Scotland in the 2011 National Student Survey (NSS).

In the 2008 Research Assessment Exercise Dundee Law School was one of only two law schools in the United Kingdom to achieve a 100% international standard classification, with half of our submissions being graded internationally excellent or world leading. Our commitment on is to provide high quality instruction, with a focus on matters of practical relevance, to prepare students for a successful legal career, whether at home or abroad.

Programme Content

In the light of the close inter-relationship of international criminal justice and human rights, the International Criminal Justice & Human Rights programme offers students the opportunity to develop an in-depth understanding of both these areas of law. The international criminal justice side of the programme sets out to provide students with a detailed understanding of contemporary issues relating to international criminal justice. Organised crime, terrorist threats and internal civil wars transcend national boundaries, impacting far beyond the interests of individual nation states. The effective detection, investigation and prosecution of crime are now dependent upon increased harmonisation and co-operation amongst global institutions. It is therefore no longer helpful or sufficient to confine the study of criminal justice to narrow jurisdictional confines. Similarly, the human rights dimension of the programme seeks to develop students' understanding of the main global and regional systems for the protection of human rights, as well as their appreciation of a selection of major issues of controversy in contemporary human rights law.

The programme offers five modules

Individual Criminal Liability in International Law focuses on the principles of individual liability and procedures in regard to the International Criminal Court, the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, and the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda. Transnational Crime and Counter-Terrorism considers the impact of the international response to organised crime and terrorism on traditional liberties and fundamental tenets such as freedom from torture, coercion and oppression in the state's pursuit of criminal investigations. It examines the judicial response to the admissibility of evidence obtained by torture into the legal process and explores the developing tensions between human rights and the duty of governments to protect their citizens from attack by organised terrorist networks.

UN Human Rights Law introduces students to the major UN human rights treaties and the other UN mechanisms for the protection and promotion of human rights. Regional Systems of Human Rights Protection: Africa, America, and Europe focuses on three advanced regional legal systems governing and affecting fundamental rights, examining their constituting treaties and associated institutions. Global Human Rights: Traditions & Inspirations seeks to promote students' understanding of human rights at a conceptual level by considering the issue of the universality of human rights in the light of varying cultural traditions from across the globe.

Methods of Assessment

Substantive modules: continuous assessment plus end of semester examinations in December and March/April. Compulsory dissertation: 12-15,000 words.

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The Master of Science in criminal justice offers a multidisciplinary curriculum to give students the sophisticated working knowledge of the major systems within the field.  Students will take challenging and rigorous courses rooted in history, law, philosophy, research, psychology, management, and political science that involve critical analysis of complex issues.

Faculty provide a quality education to students who have demonstrated competence and commitment to learning and growth, who desire to make a meaningful contribution to the field of criminal justice and who share the values of idealism, honesty, integrity, justice, and fairness.

Internet scheduling and evening courses make full- or part-time graduate study at WCU convenient for anyone interested in pursuing this degree.  The program is well-suited for current or future criminal justice professionals, as well as those who plan to pursue further graduate study.

Course Content

The Department of Criminal Justice offers a strong core of required courses, enhanced by an eclectic selection of electives designed to meet the interests and needs of our students. Each course is taught by a qualified faculty member who has direct experience in the particular subject matter.

Criminal Justice is very interdisciplinary in nature. Students interested in Criminal Justice may be interested in careers such as law enforcement and investigation, criminal prosecution or defense, probation and parole, juvenile treatment, corrections victims' advocacy, crime mapping, research, and more.  The program is designed to offer flexibility so that the student can tailor course selection to professional career goals. In this regard, students work closely with advisors to select courses each semester.

Course material is constantly updated to incorporate the ever-changing base of knowledge in this quickly evolving field. We offer such diverse electives as:  Victimology, crime Mapping, White Collar Crime, Terrorism, Environmental Crime, Organized Crime, Criminal Investigations, Interviewing and Assessing the Offender, Animal Cruelty,Evidence and Advocacy, Contemporary Legal Issues, and Justice Studies. 

Curriculum

• Required modules (15 semester hours)
CRJ 505, 507, 508, 509, and 600

• Optional Thesis* (3 semester hours)

• Electives (12-15 semester hours)
Chosen from among the following: CRJ 500, 503, 504, 506, 522, 524, 526, 530, 535, 555, 560, 566, 570, 582, 590, 599, *610 with departmental approval, and 999 (All courses listed are three semester hours unless otherwise noted.)

Please see the website for more information about these modules:

http://catalog.wcupa.edu/graduate/business-public-management/criminal-justice/#coursestext

Philadelphia Campus

The M.S. in Criminal Justice is also offered at the Philadelphia campus.

Curriculums for programs offered at the alternative PASSHE Center City satellite campus in Philadelphia are equivalent to those found on WCU’s main campus. With state-of-the-art classrooms, the Center City location serves the needs of degree completers and/or adult learners who are balancing work and family obligations.

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With over 30 years of expertise, LSBU Law has shaped the professional futures of thousands of law students.

Through critical and comparative studies of justice and the criminal litigation process this course will give you demonstrable understanding of the key principles that ground the UK criminal justice system, its issues, approaches and topical debates.

If you are a recent graduate, or already working within the criminal justice field, you'll further your academic and practical knowledge of the litigation process. The programme is also highly relevant to human rights workers and policy agents working in the UK or abroad. Upon completion you'll have acquired an in-depth and systematic understanding of criminal litigation and criminal justice and will be able to work at the cutting edge of practice and research in these areas.

This course is distinctive for the following reasons:

• Emphasis on human rights and justice issues;
• Practical legal problem-solving drawing upon a variety of legal and non-legal knowledge, understanding and skills;
• Leading practitioner insights into current legal and criminal justice practice issues;
• Strong national links with the legal profession;
• The learning environment is greatly enhanced by guest lectures, delivered by distinguished scholars and practitioners.

Modules

Core modules:

Research methods
Criminal litigation
Criminal justice
Dissertation

Module options:

After completing core modules you'll choose from options that reflect the practical/ theoretical and social justice context of the course. Choices are made following discussion with your personal tutor and also guided by your own professional interests and career aspirations.

International criminal law
Evidence/science and technology
Psychological aspects of investigation
Decision making in the forensic context
Advocacy
Policing
Investigative psychology
Terrorism
Citizenship and combating crime in the EU

Criminal litigation
If you're interested in criminal litigation you may prefer options such as: Advocacy, Evidence, Forensic Science and Technology or International Criminal Law

Criminal justice
Or if you want to focus on the criminal justice system you may prefer options such as: Policing, Terrorism, Investigative Psychology, Forensic Psychology.

Study modes

Full-time: 14 months (taught stage: October-June; dissertation: July-October);
six modules plus a dissertation to be completed July-October

Part-time: 26 months (taught stage: October-June years one and two. Dissertation: July-October or July to January in year 2)
Three modules a year for two years; plus a dissertation completed July-January, or, July-October.

Teaching and learning

Content, knowledge and understanding is assessed through coursework, or, a combination of coursework, presentations and online assessments. Coursework can take many forms (based on the practical or theoretical content of the module) including essays and reports.

Professional links

Through our growing pool of visiting fellows and professors, the Law Department has developed a strong network of contacts with leading criminal law practitioners. Moreover, the Law Department enjoys strong links with the South London Law Society, and cooperates with them to provide a programme of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for local practitioners and members of the South London Law Society. Many members of the Law Department are practitioners, or retain strong links with the legal profession.

Recent guest lecturers:

• Vera Baird, QC, MP;
• Roger Smith, Director of Justice;
• Joel Bennathan, QC, Barrister;
• Imran Khan, Solicitor.

Employability

Upon completion of the course you'll have developed advanced legal practice skills and an informed and reflective understanding of the criminal justice system. As well as legal practice, graduates of this LLM may seek employment in a variety of related fields such as research and policy making the police, prison and probation services.

LSBU Employability Services

LSBU is committed to supporting you develop your employability and succeed in getting a job after you have graduated. Your qualification will certainly help, but in a competitive market you also need to work on your employability, and on your career search. Our Employability Service will support you in developing your skills, finding a job, interview techniques, work experience or an internship, and will help you assess what you need to do to get the job you want at the end of your course. LSBU offers a comprehensive Employability Service, with a range of initiatives to complement your studies, including:

• Direct engagement from employers who come in to interview and talk to students
• Job Shop and on-campus recruitment agencies to help your job search
• Mentoring and work shadowing schemes.

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Why take this course?

This established programme allows you to develop your understanding of criminological theories of offending and the extent of crime, enabling you to critically examine the role and function of the criminal justice and penal policy process, and the criminal justice policy-making context, in England and Wales. It has been specifically designed for graduates of criminology or other related degrees, for those with criminal justice career aspirations or those already working in the criminal justice arena at all levels.

What will I experience

On this course you can:

Develop an understanding of the application of criminological and criminal justice principles to law enforcement and criminal justice agencies
Examine the treatment of disadvantaged communities and groups discriminated against, by and within, the criminal justice system
Shape your study to your interests through your choice of options and dissertation topic

Module Details

You will study the following core units:

Criminology Past and Present (30 credits)

Criminal Justice (30 credits)

Research Methods and Research Management (30 credits)

15,000-word Dissertation (60 credits)

Optional units include:

Investigation and Psychology (distance learning only)

Managing Justice and Security Organisations (distance learning only)

Countering Fraud and Corruption in Public and Private Sectors (distance learning only)

International and Transnational Offending (distance learning only)

Please note that all options are subject to minimum student numbers and may not all be available.

Please note that the course structure may vary from year to year; course content and learning opportunities will not be diminished by this.

Programme Assessment

All ICJS distance learning students are supported in the initial stages by the extended Induction Programme (online and face-to-face). Immediately following induction, an engagement officer proactively ensures any issues are resolved rapidly, and thereafter personal support is provided by your course leader for the duration of your studies.

Assessment is based upon a range of written assignments including essays, case study, a literature review and research proposal focused on your chosen project. You will also complete a 15,000-word dissertation. For each assignment full academic support is provided by an academic subject expert and you will be provided with academic supervisor once you have identified your dissertation subject area.

Student Destinations

Given the broad range of issues considered and the skills acquired throughout the degree programme, you will be well equipped to embark upon a diverse range of career choices. Over the years our graduates have found employment in areas including policing (both as officers and as civilian staff), crime analysis, probation, the courts and prison service, local authorities, academia and research, charities and private industry to name just a few.

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We have tailored the MA in Criminology and Criminal Justice course to meet the requirements of graduates and professionals wishing to further their studies in this vibrant and increasingly important subject.

Covering exciting contemporary issues within the criminal process, such as homicide investigation, the threat of global organised crime and fraud investigation the course will equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this competitive field.

The research methodology and dissertation modules aim to ensure that you receive training in a range of research skills; invaluable in both the professional and academic worlds.

Course detail

During the course, you will gain an understanding of key issues in criminal justice policy and the administration of justice.

You will study topics which will give you a specialised understanding of organised crime, the complex relationship between policing and public perception, the investigation of homicidein the UK and internationally, and you will develop a working knowledge of the techniques used in investigating fraud and money laundering.

Modules

• Contemporary Criminal Justice Issues
• Counter Terrorism Policing
• Investigating Financial Crime
• Homicide Investigation
• Organised Crime
• Research Methodology
• Dissertation.

Format

We use a wide range of teaching and learning methods to meet different learning styles and objectives. Our teaching strategy places you at the centre of the teaching and learning process in order to stimulate your interest so that you learn through involvement. We aim to encourage you to learn by your participation in well-structured learning activities.

During your MA studies, you can expect to benefit from small group lectures and workshops, class discussions with your peers and academics, and frequent formal and informal feedback on your ideas and your progress. Although postgraduate level study requires a significant amount of individual study outside of scheduled classes, you will be supported by staff, who will direct you to relevant resources and help guide your learning.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary between modules, but will comprise of a combination of coursework and examinations.

Career and study progression

A Criminology postgraduate degree can open the door to many exciting and rewarding careers. Some of the most popular careers include:
• police
• probation and prison officers
• private companies in the security industry
• in the court system
• administration of justice.

The skills you acquire on this postgraduate level course are also transferable and valued across many other sectors, such as:
• finance
• the charity sector
• the civil service
• the public sector
• the public services.

Research study enables you to specialise in the field you are passionate about.

How to apply

Click the following link for information on how to apply to this course: http://www.uwl.ac.uk/students/postgraduate/how-apply

Scholarships and bursaries

Information about scholarships and bursaries can be found here: http://www.uwl.ac.uk/students/postgraduate/scholarships-and-bursaries

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International criminal law is a dynamic, controversial and fast-moving field that increasingly touches on, and affects matters of, key international significance.

At the core of the subject are legal institutions such as the International Criminal Court that have been established to realise the ideal of holding to account those responsible for offences such as war crimes and genocide.

Our LLM combines a study of the legal doctrine underpinning the investigation and prosecution of international crimes with a critical analysis of the political context in which such prosecutions are undertaken.

How will I study?

You’ll study two core modules in the autumn term and choose two options in the spring term. In the summer, you undertake supervised work on the LLM dissertation. You will be assessed through coursework, an unseen examination, essays and a dissertation.

Scholarships

Our aim is to ensure that every student who wants to study with us is able to despite financial barriers, so that we continue to attract talented and unique individuals.

Chancellor's International Scholarship (2017)
-25 scholarships of a 50% tuition fee waiver
-Application deadline: 1 May 2017

HESPAL Scholarship (Higher Education Scholarships Scheme for the Palestinian Territories) (2017)
-Two full fee waivers in conjuction with maintenance support from the British Council
-Application deadline: 1 January 2017

USA Friends Scholarships (2017)
-A scholarship of an amount equivalent to $10,000 for nationals or residents of the USA on a one year taught Masters degree course.
-Application deadline: 3 April 2017

Faculty

Law at Sussex has active research groups in its primary research fields, exploring legal conceptualisations of responsibility and issues of citizenship and governance.

These groups meet regularly for the presentation of work in progress, as reading groups, to host external speakers and to plan the organisation of research seminars, workshops and conferences.

Careers

This LLM is ideal if you want to work in any area of criminal law – from practising as a lawyer to policy review and reform – but particularly if you wish to pursue a career with an international angle.

Our graduates have progressed to work and research with human rights NGOs, in education, as legal professionals, with several working and interning at the international criminal tribunals in The Hague.

Several have also chosen to continue with doctoral-level study in the fields of human rights and international criminal law.

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