Sociology and Criminology

The Death Penalty

Module code: L4091A
Level 6
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Workshop
Assessment modes: Essay

On this module, you’ll use different approaches to study the death penalty’s history and its use today, including:

  • sociological
  • criminological
  • socio-legal
  • cultural.

You’ll focus on a cultural perspective to understand the symbolic meanings of punishment and how they relate to social change. 

Module learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate a systematic understanding of the death penalty as a social and cultural issue
  • Apply a cultural perspective to analysing issues related to the death penalty in different contexts
  • Demonstrate an appreciation of the death penalty as a contentious and contested issue
  • Demonstrate the ability to manage their own learning via completion of a 4000 word essay