Criminology at the University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system. This program is designed for students interested in exploring the social, psychological, legal, and political aspects of crime and deviance. Combining theoretical frameworks with empirical research, students will examine the causes and consequences of criminal activity, as well as the responses of society to crime through law enforcement, judiciary processes, and community initiatives.

The course covers a wide range of topics, including criminal law, forensic science, policing, sentencing, and the sociology of crime. Students will also analyze issues such as juvenile delinquency, white-collar crime, cybercrime, and organized crime, gaining insight into both traditional and emerging criminal phenomena. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to evaluate complex social issues, preparing graduates for careers in criminal justice, policy analysis, forensic sciences, social research, or further academic study.

Throughout their studies, students will engage with a variety of pedagogical methods including lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research projects. The program also encourages engagement with real-world case studies and opportunities for practical experience through internships and collaborations with criminal justice agencies. Faculty members are distinguished researchers and practitioners in the field, providing students with expert guidance and up-to-date knowledge on contemporary challenges in criminology.

The curriculum is designed to foster an analytical mindset and ethical awareness, enabling students to critically assess the effectiveness of current criminal justice strategies and to think innovatively about future policy developments. Graduates from this program will have a nuanced understanding of the complexities of crime and the societal responses, equipping them with the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to criminal justice reform and social policy initiatives. With its rigorous academic environment and a strong emphasis on empirical research, the Criminology program at Cambridge aspires to develop tomorrow’s leaders and researchers committed to understanding and addressing crime in all its dimensions.

Feedback

Students can expect to receive an online feedback report each term.

Assessment

Thesis

Successful completion of the doctoral programme involves, among other requirements, the writing of a dissertation of up to 80,000 words exclusive of footnotes, appendices and bibliography but subject to an overall word limit of 100,000 words exclusive of bibliography.

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Statement of Interests
• Research Proposal 
• CV/Resumé 
• Personal Reference

The University of Cambridge offers various funding options and scholarships for students pursuing its Criminology program, aimed at supporting both domestic and international students throughout their studies. Prospective students are encouraged to explore scholarships provided by the University as well as external funding sources. Cambridge scholarships include the Cambridge International Scholarships, which are highly competitive and provide full funding for outstanding students from any country outside the European Union. Additionally, the Gates Cambridge Scholarships are available for graduate students demonstrating exceptional leadership and potential, offering full coverage of tuition fees, living allowance, and airfare. The Gates Cambridge Trust awards are open to students from any country outside the UK, including applications for interdisciplinary programs such as Criminology.

Students may also consider specific college-based scholarships, which are awarded by individual colleges within the university. These include scholarships, bursaries, and hardship funds that can assist with tuition fees or living costs. Applicants are advised to check the specific college they intend to apply to for additional funding opportunities.

For UK students, there are government-funded loan schemes such as student loans for tuition fees and maintenance loans for living costs, available through Student Finance England, Wales, or Northern Ireland, depending on the student's residency. EU students without settled status may have access to some of these schemes, but eligibility varies following Brexit changes.

International students can also seek external scholarships and sponsorships from government agencies, private foundations, or international organizations in their home countries. Some options include country-specific scholarships or those provided by non-governmental organizations dedicated to educational development.

The university strongly recommends that all applicants thoroughly review the funding information available on its official website and contact the university's financial aid office early in the application process to ensure they are aware of all relevant funding opportunities and application deadlines. Students are also encouraged to explore part-time work opportunities on campus, which can help manage living expenses during their studies. Overall, students pursuing the Criminology program at Cambridge have access to a robust array of funding options designed to facilitate their academic and research pursuits without undue financial hardship.

The University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive and rigorous program in Criminology, designed to provide students with a deep understanding of crime and justice from multidisciplinary perspectives. The program combines insights from sociology, psychology, law, and other social sciences to explore the causes and consequences of criminal behavior, as well as the functioning of criminal justice systems. Students have the opportunity to examine a wide range of topics, including the sociological and psychological aspects of criminality, the operational procedures of law enforcement agencies, penal policies, and crime prevention strategies. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, encouraging critical thinking and analytical skills. Students are also engaged in research projects and fieldwork, which deepen their understanding and allow them to apply their knowledge to real-world issues. The program prepares graduates for careers in criminal justice, policy making, research, and related fields, or for further academic study. The University of Cambridge's reputation for academic excellence and its distinguished faculty contribute to a challenging and enriching learning environment. Students benefit from access to extensive academic resources, including libraries, research centers, and opportunities for collaboration with leading experts. The program typically spans three years for an undergraduate degree, with options for specializations and options for postgraduate study. Overall, the Criminology program at Cambridge aims to produce well-informed, analytical, and ethically responsible professionals equipped to address complex issues in the justice and crime sectors.