Criminology MSc

Why choose this course
Through criminology, we study the issues of crime, deviance and criminal justice that are at the heart of our society.

On our MSc Criminology, we’ve combined modules in academic criminology and the criminal justice system with training in qualitative and quantitative research methods.

Our world-renowned criminological expertise and unique emphasis on research methodology will sharpen your ability to think in a logical and informed manner about criminological problems, and to design, conduct and manage effective research and evaluation.

What you will study
Combining criminological knowledge with applied research skills, this course will equip you with a sophisticated understanding of the most important challenges and perspectives in contemporary criminology.

Our MSc Criminology has been designed for graduates and practitioners with an appropriate first degree who seek advanced knowledge about issues connected with crime, deviance, control, the criminal justice system and social research.

This degree also has two new pathways – cybercrime and cybersecurity and corporate crime and corporate responsibility. These degrees also suit graduates and practitioners considering a PhD in this area, as well as practitioners in the criminal justice system and related government, security and voluntary agencies who wish to develop their understanding of the wider issues connected to crime.

Placements
On our MSc Criminology, we offer you the opportunity to take four weeks of work experience during the Easter vacation. This will provide you with first-hand experience of large-scale research in action. In the past, students have secured placements in criminal justice agencies such as the police, prisons and probation services, in national and local government bodies, research organisations and in media and business. In some cases, the placement may be with research projects being completed within a university context, including the Department of Sociology at the University of Surrey.

Where the full period is not practical, as may be the case if you’re a part-time student, it’s also possible to do a shorter placement lasting two to four weeks, usually during the summer. Placements are not guaranteed, but our placement officer will work with you to identify possible placement opportunities. 

MSc conference
This course includes a conference, usually in November, which provides an opportunity, in an informal atmosphere, for discussion concerning current research issues and debates, technologies and methods at the forefront of social research, and other related themes. The conference programme includes lectures from guest speakers and members of staff, seminars, workshops and small group discussions.

You are not required to attend the conference to complete the course, but it’s strongly encouraged. Students are not directly charged for attending.