Criminal Justice and Criminology
The Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology at the University of Derby is a one-year, full-time on-campus program that provides students with an in-depth understanding of criminal justice systems and criminological theory. This program is designed for those who wish to explore the complexities of crime, law enforcement, and justice, and offers a deep dive into the social, political, and psychological factors that contribute to criminal behavior. Students will explore a variety of criminological theories, from classical criminology to contemporary approaches, while analyzing the effectiveness of criminal justice policies and practices.
The program emphasizes critical thinking and research skills, allowing students to examine crime and justice issues from a global perspective. Students will engage with a range of topics, such as the impact of crime on society, policing and law enforcement, criminal law, and rehabilitation. Additionally, there will be opportunities for practical learning through fieldwork, case studies, and guest lectures from professionals in the criminal justice field. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped to work in a variety of roles, such as law enforcement, criminology research, policy development, and correctional facilities, with the skills necessary to contribute to the evolution of criminal justice systems.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Master of Science in Criminal Justice and Criminology
- Degree Type: Master of Science (MSc)
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 20th July 2026
- Location: University of Derby, United Kingdom
- Field of Study: Criminology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Criminal Justice and Criminological Theory
• Theories of Crime, Deviance, and Social Control
• Criminal Justice Systems and Policy Frameworks
• Research Methods and Data Analysis in Criminology
• Ethics and Professional Practice in Criminal Justice
Semester 2 – Applied Criminology and Justice Reform
• Policing, Punishment, and Rehabilitation
• Comparative and Global Criminology
• Crime Prevention, Security, and Risk Management
• Master’s Dissertation / Applied Criminology Research Project
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can pursue careers in law enforcement, corrections, policy analysis, social research, and criminal justice administration. Typical roles include criminologist, probation officer, policy advisor, or justice program manager in both public and private sectors. The program also provides a strong foundation for doctoral study or academic research in criminology and social justice. With its emphasis on analytical and applied skills, graduates are equipped to evaluate justice systems, influence policy reform, and contribute to reducing crime and inequality.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers an in-depth exploration of crime, justice, and social policy, integrating criminological theory with real-world practice. Students engage with current debates around justice reform, rehabilitation, and global crime trends, developing a critical understanding of how societies respond to criminal behavior. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based analysis, ethical awareness, and policy evaluation, enabling learners to translate theory into impactful practice. With guidance from experienced academics and practitioners, graduates gain the expertise to drive change within justice systems and promote fair, effective, and equitable approaches to crime prevention.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +44 (0)1332 591 000
Email: admissions@derby.ac.uk
Address: University of Derby, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, United Kingdom
