The modules you take are taught using a combination of lectures and workshops, as well as more contemporary virtual learning environments. Lectures provide you with the foundational knowledge needed to study the subject area, while the workshops give you the opportunity to discuss key ideas with your peers and your workshop leader. The virtual learning environment, which include podcasts, online discussion forums and audio/visual learning aids, gives you the opportunity to explore the subject area at your own pace and offer an alternative approach to learning and teaching.

In addition to this you will be given a personal tutor who can provide one-to-one support on a range of academic and personal issues, a weekly ‘drop-in’ help-desk to ask any questions supported by teaching staff, and all the teaching staff in the School have regular office hours where you are able to discuss any problems you may have.

Our assessment strategy allows you to develop a range of academic and transferable skills throughout your degree. You will be assessed through essays, reports and presentations. You will also have the opportunity to produce factsheets, blogs, posters and a range of other creative and authentic, real-world forms of assessment.

In your third year you will have the opportunity to undertake a research project focusing on an area of criminology that particularly interests you. The research project is the culmination of your academic studies and it allows you to demonstrate all of the skills and knowledge you have acquired throughout your studies. It is also a fantastic opportunity to study a particular topic area in depth and to conduct your own research. You will also receive dedicated one-to-one research project supervision from one of the academics in the School.

Independent learning

When not attending lectures, seminars or other timetabled sessions you will be expected to continue learning independently through self-study. Typically, this will involve reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, undertaking research in the library, preparing coursework assignments and presentations, and preparing for exams. To help with your independent learning, you can use our student study spaces in the school, access the Library and our social study spaces in halls of residence.

Academic support

Our Centre for Academic Achievement provides help in the following areas:

• study and exam skills
• academic writing
• presentations
• dissertations
• numerical data skills
• referencing sources

Our AccessAbility Centre offers support and practical help for students with dyslexia or other specific learning difficulties, including physical, mental health or mobility difficulties, deafness, or visual impairment.

Teaching staff

You will be taught by an award-winning teaching team whose expertise and knowledge are closely matched to the content of the modules on the course. PhD research students who have undertaken teacher training may also contribute to the teaching of workshops under the supervision of the module leader. You can learn more about our staff by visiting our staff profiles.