Sociology and Criminology

Understanding the Criminal Justice System

Module code: L3112
Level 4
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework

Gain an introduction to the criminal justice system by focusing on key debates around social control and the historic development of institutions.

You'll study the development of key components of the justice system, including:

  • prisons
  • the police
  • probation
  • the courts and community justice.

You'll also examine contemporary debates, including:

  • race and crime
  • gender
  • power and punishment
  • issues of overpolicing and criminalisation
  • youth justice and crime prevention.

You’ll also study the British justice system in an international context for comparison.

Module learning outcomes

  • Describe the key aspects of the criminal justice justice and their historical development.
  • Understand the functions of the criminal justice system.
  • Demonstrate an awareness of contemporary debates and concerns surrounding the criminal justice system.
  • Be confident evaluating classic texts, policy documents and papers.