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 study the development of key components of the justice system including:

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

You also examine contemporary debates including:

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

You will study the British justice system within an international context (to allow for a comparative understanding).

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.