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Level 5: Criminology

Introduction

The whole range of theories regarding crime and criminality will be considered as will policing and the role of the police, with an emphasis on discretion and discrimination in respect of race, sexuality, and domestic violence. The role of the penal system and how prison and probation also operate will be considered.

Module Description

This module aims to:

  1. Consider and critically assess criminological, legal and statistical definitions of crime
  2. Introduce students to a range of historical and contemporary criminological perspectives on crime
  3. Discuss and critically evaluate a range of biological and psychological perspectives on the causes of criminality
  4. Discuss and critically evaluate a range of perspectives on the role of the 21st Century Police Force, and consider discrimination within the operation of the police
  5. Identify historical and current perspectives on the function of punishment and the penal system
  6. Provide the opportunity for students to consider the ‘What Works’ debate in relation to punishment

Module Content

  • What is Criminology?
  • Criminology and Crime
  • Theories of Criminality – Criminological Approaches
  • Theories of Criminality – Criminological Approaches
  • Theories of Criminality – Biological Approaches
  • Theories of Criminality – Psychological Approaches
  • Policing and the Police – The Role of the Police
  • Policing and the Police Discretion and Discrimination
    Current Developments in Police Policy and Practice
  • Crime and Punishment – The Role of the Penal System
  • Prison and the ‘What Works’ Debate
    The Probation Service and Community Penalties

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