It also provides an understanding of crime and violence, crime policy and the relationship between social status and access to justice and rights. It introduces students to sociological theories and methods with a particular focus on the causes of and social/legal/political responses to crime. Issues explored include how crime is defined, how society deals with crime, state regulation of crime and how the distinction between crime and deviance changes over time. Students also gain a thorough grounding in sociological approaches and debates including understanding inequality, social stratification, identity, gender ethnicity and social policy.
In addition to providing an understanding of theories and current debates within sociology and criminology the degree focuses on applied research skills and on enhancing career opportunities. Through taught courses, work placements and dissertation opportunities the degree fosters communication, analytical and organisational skills that enhance career prospects.
The aims of the programme are:
- To develop an understanding of social structures and institutions and how these affect individuals' everyday lives
- To provide insight into the causes of crime and the social, legal and political responses to it
- To provide advanced practical research skills
- To build independent thinking, intellectual curiosity and creativity
- To create confidence, openness to new ideas and situations, and an ability to recognise and create opportunities
- To foster cultural awareness, global and social responsibility
- To enhance communication and analytical and management skills
- To strengthen career related competencies including the use of information technologies, team work problem solving and professionalism
- To provide students with a solid foundation for careers in related areas (for instance criminal justice, public policy, education, youth work, third sector) and/or postgraduate study in sociology, criminology, social/public policy.
