Criminology and Criminal Justice

Criminology and Criminal Justice at City University offers a comprehensive and rigorous programme designed to equip students with an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system, criminal behaviour, and the social, legal, and policy contexts within which crime occurs and is addressed. This programme combines theoretical frameworks with practical insights, enabling students to critically analyze crime prevention, law enforcement, rehabilitation, and societal responses to crime. Throughout their studies, students will explore key topics such as theories of crime causation, the criminal justice process, policing, sentencing, penalties, and the role of criminological research in informing policy and practice. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and ethical considerations relevant to criminology and criminal justice. Students will have opportunities to engage with current debates on topics like restorative justice, racial disparities in sentencing, cybercrime, and terrorism, preparing them for diverse careers within criminal justice agencies, research institutions, NGOs, and policy development roles. The programme is designed to foster analytical skills, professional competencies, and a nuanced understanding of how societal factors influence criminal behaviour and responses. Regular interaction with industry professionals, guest lectures, and possible placements enhance practical understanding and career readiness. Graduates will be well-positioned to contribute effectively to criminal justice reform, policy analysis, and community safety initiatives, making a positive impact in their chosen fields.

The BSc Criminology and Criminal Justice programme at City University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the contemporary criminal justice system and the social, political, and economic factors that influence crime and criminal behavior. The curriculum is designed to equip students with a solid theoretical foundation alongside practical skills necessary for careers in the criminal justice sector, research, policy development, and related fields. Throughout the course, students will examine key aspects of criminal law, law enforcement, the judicial process, corrections, and community justice initiatives.

The programme covers core topics such as the sociology of crime, criminal psychology, forensic science, cybercrime, and international criminal justice. Students have opportunities to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and research competencies through lectures, seminars, and independent projects. Emphasis is placed on understanding crime from multiple perspectives, including social, psychological, and legal viewpoints, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to studying crime and justice.

In addition to theoretical knowledge, the programme provides practical experience through case studies, workshops, and placements with criminal justice agencies. This helps students gain real-world insight into the workings of policing, courts, prisons, and victim support services. The programme also promotes a global perspective on crime and justice, with modules exploring international criminal law, transnational crime, and human rights issues.

Graduates of the programme will be well-prepared for careers in law enforcement, forensic analysis, policy advising, social work, and research organizations. The university’s strong links with industry partners and experts ensure that the programme remains current and relevant to the evolving needs of the criminal justice field. Overall, the programme aims to foster a critical understanding of crime and justice issues, enabling students to contribute effectively to the development of fair, effective, and innovative criminal justice policies and practices.

Required modules include Introduction to Criminology, Foundations of Criminal Justice, Crime and Society, Criminal Law, Research Methods in Crime and Justice, and Ethics in Criminal Justice. Students must complete core courses totaling at least 60 credits, covering areas such as policing, corrections, juvenile justice, and forensic science. Elective modules allow specialization in areas like Cybercrime, Terrorism Studies, or Victimology, enabling students to tailor their education to career goals. Practical experience is emphasized through internships, which are an integral part of the program, requiring students to complete a minimum of 150 hours in professional settings such as law enforcement agencies, forensic laboratories, or social service organizations. In addition to coursework, students are expected to participate in seminars, workshops, and discussions designed to deepen understanding of current issues in criminology and criminal justice reform. The program also includes a capstone project where students conduct independent research, applying theoretical knowledge to real-world problems, which must be at least 8,000 words. To graduate, students are typically required to achieve a minimum grade point average of 2.0 across all courses and demonstrate proficient research and analytical skills. Language proficiency requirements include a minimum score in standardized English tests, unless already demonstrated through previous education or native language status, ensuring students can engage fully with the curriculum in English. The program encourages critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from sociology, psychology, law, and public policy to prepare graduates for effective careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, policy analysis, or academic research.

The City University offers a range of financial options to support students enrolled in the Criminology and Criminal Justice program. Tuition fees for full-time undergraduate students are set annually and vary depending on residency status. For domestic students, the tuition fee is approximately $18,000 per year, while international students pay about $30,000 per year. These figures are indicative and subject to change, so students are advised to consult the official university website for the most current information.

The university provides various scholarship opportunities for eligible students based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as leadership qualities and community service. Scholarships can significantly reduce the financial burden and may cover partial or full tuition, as well as other academic costs. Some scholarships are automatically awarded based on application data, while others require a separate application process. Additionally, the university offers need-based financial aid programs, which can include grants, bursaries, and work-study opportunities, helping students manage living expenses and academic costs throughout their studies.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as government grants, private scholarships, and educational loans available through financial institutions. City University also provides guidance and resources to assist students in applying for financial aid, including counseling sessions and workshops on financial planning. International students may have access to specific scholarship programs and work opportunities on-campus, subject to visa regulations.

The university promotes a transparent fee structure and offers installment payment plans to make financing manageable. Students can opt to pay their tuition fees in multiple installments across the academic year. Moreover, the university's financial aid office provides personalized assistance to help students identify the most suitable funding options based on their individual circumstances. Overall, City University aims to make criminology and criminal justice education accessible by offering comprehensive financial support systems, ensuring that students can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial stress.

The Criminology and Criminal Justice program at City University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, the nature of crime, and the societal impacts of criminal behavior. This program combines academic theory with practical application, equipping graduates with the skills necessary for careers in law enforcement, forensic analysis, policy development, and rehabilitation services. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including criminological theories, criminal law, criminalistics, penology, forensics, and policies for crime prevention. Students are encouraged to analyze crime from multiple perspectives, including psychological, sociological, and legal viewpoints, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills.

The program offers a diverse array of modules, often including both core and elective courses that allow students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals. Emphasis is placed on research methods and data analysis, preparing students to contribute effectively to academic or applied research projects. Throughout their studies, students have opportunities for practical experiences such as internships, case studies, and site visits to criminal justice agencies, which enhance their understanding of real-world issues and develop professional competencies.

City University's facilities support this program through specialized labs and resources, including crime scene simulation labs, forensic labs, and access to relevant legal and criminal justice databases. The faculty members are experienced professionals and academics in the fields of criminology, law enforcement, and forensic science, providing students with mentorship and expertise. Graduates from this program are well-prepared for postgraduate study or immediate employment within the criminal justice sector, such as police work, forensic analysis, probation services, or policy advisory roles. The program also emphasizes ethical considerations and the importance of human rights within the criminal justice process, promoting responsible and informed professional conduct. Overall, City University's Criminology and Criminal Justice program aims to produce knowledgeable, skilled, and ethically conscious graduates who can address complex challenges within the criminal justice system effectively and confidently.