Criminal Justice

The Criminal Justice degree programme at Queen Mary University of London offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills. This interdisciplinary course draws on elements of law, criminology, sociology, and psychology to provide a holistic perspective on crime, justice, and the criminal justice process. Students will explore the causes and consequences of criminal behavior, the functioning of police, courts, and prisons, and the social and political factors shaping criminal justice policies. The programme is designed to equip graduates with critical analysis, research, and communication skills, preparing them for careers in law enforcement, criminal justice agencies, legal services, or further academic study. The curriculum includes modules on criminal law, criminological theory, human rights, criminal justice policy, and ethics. Students have opportunities for practical experience through placements, internships, and research projects, fostering real-world understanding and professional development. Queen Mary’s vibrant campus environment promotes engagement with diverse communities and topics, encouraging students to develop a nuanced view of crime and justice in contemporary society. The programme also emphasizes critical thinking, encouraging students to challenge existing paradigms and consider innovative approaches to criminal justice reform. With experienced faculty and links to alumni working across various sectors, graduates are well-prepared to contribute to and shape the future of criminal justice. The degree can be pursued at undergraduate level, offering flexible options for full-time study, and provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study or entering the workforce. Overall, Queen Mary’s Criminal Justice programme offers a rigorous, relevant, and dynamic education for those interested in understanding the complexities of crime and justice in today’s world.

The Master of Laws (LLM) is available to study full-time for one year or part-time for two years.
Each of the LLM programmes follows a common format: you will take 135 credits worth of taught modules (examined in May-June) and thereafter you work on a 15,000-word dissertation worth 45 credits (submitted mid August). You are required to balance your taught modules equally across the two teaching semesters – a full explanation of this process will be available during induction and before module selection.
What differs from programme to programme is the range of modules that you are required to choose from. If you wish to take an unrestricted range of modules and any approved dissertation topic you should apply for the Master of Laws.
The learning process will take place in a variety of ways to cater for the range of transferable skills useful for pursuing a professional career in the field of criminal justice. Teaching will be in small groups, taking the form of interactive seminars, to allow you test your understanding and to learn from both the seminar leader and your peers. In that framework, there will be opportunities for you to present arguments in oral and written form and to conduct independent research.

• QLLM053 International Criminal Law (45 credits)
• QLLM068 Law of Economic Crime (45 credits)
• QLLM078 Mental Health Law (45 credits)
• QLLM101 EU Criminal Law (Sem 2)
• QLLM169 Punishment in England 1750-1950 (Sem 1)
• QLLM173 Terrorism and Human Rights: Constitutional Perspectives (Sem 1)
• QLLM174 Migration, Security and Human Rights (Sem 1)
• QLLM311 Policing in Local and Global Contexts (Sem 1)
• QLLM312 Comparative Criminal Justice (Sem 2) (Not running 2016-17)
• QLLM313 Criminal Justice and Surveillance Technologies (Sem 2)
• QLLM323 State Crime (sem 2)
• QLLM351 Cybercrime: Substantive Offences (sem 1)
• QLLM352 Cybercrime: International Co-operation and Digital Investigations (sem 2)

Requirements

• The usual qualification for entry to the LLM programme is a degree in law, or a degree with a substantial law content, of at least 2.1 honours (or equivalent). Law graduates with 2.2 honours who also have other legal qualifications and/or substantial professional legal experience may also qualify.
• Non-law graduates with a minimum second class honours degree, that have also obtained a Merit (or 60 per cent) in the Common Professional Examination (CPE) or Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) recognised by the UK professional bodies, may also qualify. Non-law graduates may also be considered on the basis of exceptional professional experience (of at least five years) in a legal area or an area directly related to their programme of study.
• IELTS 7.0
• Degree transcripts. Please provide a transcript of your degree(s). If you have not yet completed your degree please provide a transcript of your results achieved to date. 
• If your degree was from an overseas institution, you should supply a transcript of your marks for each year of your studies and a copy of your degree certificate together with a certified translation if the document is not in English. Please note that original documentation will be required before you enrol. International applicants are also advised to include high school transcripts
• Please provide the contact details of two referees, at least one reference must be from an academic referee who is in a position to comment on the standard of your academic work and suitability for postgraduate level study. Where appropriate, a second referee can provide comment on your professional experience.
• A full and detailed CV is required for all applications and is particularly relevant where professional experience needs to be considered.
• Statement of purpose. Your statement of purpose should explain why you want to study your chosen programme and how it will help your life and career. This should typically be one side of A4 paper.

The Criminal Justice program at Queen Mary University of London offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Prospective students are encouraged to explore various funding opportunities, including government loans, scholarships, and bursaries. For domestic students, the UK government provides student loans that cover tuition fees and living costs, which can be repaid after graduation based on income levels. International students may need to secure private funding or scholarships, as government loans are generally not available to them. Queen Mary University also offers several scholarships specifically for students enrolling in the Criminal Justice program, such as merit-based scholarships and need-based bursaries, which help reduce financial burdens and make higher education more accessible. Additionally, students can consider part-time work opportunities during their studies, as the university’s location in London provides numerous job prospects. The university's financial aid office provides detailed guidance on scholarship applications, bursary eligibility, and financing planning to help students manage their education expenses effectively. Furthermore, external organizations and government agencies may also offer funding options tailored to students pursuing degrees in criminology and justice-related fields. It is advisable for students to review the university’s official website and contact the financial aid office for up-to-date information on available funding sources, application procedures, and deadlines. Overall, the Criminal Justice program at Queen Mary University of London is designed to be financially accessible through various support mechanisms, ensuring students from diverse backgrounds can pursue their academic and career goals in this vital field of study.

The Criminal Justice programme at Queen Mary University of London offers a comprehensive exploration of the legal, social, and policy aspects of crime and justice. The course is designed to equip students with a thorough understanding of the criminal justice system, including the roles of law enforcement, the judiciary, and correctional institutions. It also examines broader issues such as human rights, social justice, and the impact of crime on society. Emphasizing critical thinking and analytical skills, the programme encourages students to evaluate the effectiveness of existing justice policies and consider innovative solutions to complex issues.

Students enrolled in this programme will have the opportunity to engage with a wide range of subjects, including criminological theory, the legal framework surrounding criminal offences, investigative procedures, and sentencing practices. The coursework includes lectures, seminars, and practical case studies that foster a deeper understanding of real-world criminal justice challenges. In addition, the programme offers modules on contemporary issues such as cybercrime, terrorism, juvenile justice, and international criminal law, reflecting the dynamic and evolving nature of the field.

Queen Mary University of London’s location in the heart of London provides excellent access to criminal justice agencies, courts, and international organizations, enabling students to benefit from valuable internships, placements, and guest lectures from practitioners in the field. The course also emphasizes research skills, encouraging students to undertake independent projects that contribute new insights into criminal justice topics. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for careers in law enforcement, legal services, policy analysis, advocacy, and further academic study. Overall, the Criminal Justice programme aims to develop informed, critical, and socially responsible professionals equipped to address the challenges of modern criminal justice systems worldwide.