Introduction to Criminology

Module code: CR1004

Module co-ordinator: Dr Mark Connor

Description

You only have to switch on the television to see violent crime, anti-social behaviour, hate crime or terrorism - and hence to realise how relevant to everyday life the study of criminology has become. Criminology is the study of how crime is defined, why some people commit crime and what happens when they do. This module will provide you with a general introduction to the discipline of Criminology by exploring some of the key themes that define the study of crime and criminality.

  • We will start by discussing the subject of criminology and outlining its focus before turning to the subject of criminological inquiry – crime and deviance.
  • We will explore the various sources of information about crime used by criminologists, politicians and the media.
  • We will discover the socio-economic, political and cultural context that can be said to form the backdrop to much thinking about crime.
  • You will examine a range of concepts such as gender, age, social inclusion/exclusion, race and religion, and explore their connections with the dynamics of crime and its control. 

Topics covered

  • Historical and contemporary accounts of crime
  • Defining and measuring crime
  • Media representations of crime
  • The social demographics of offenders and victims
  • Academic referencing and essay planning
  • Victims of crime

Learning

  • 9 two-hour lectures
  • 8 one-hour seminars

Assessment

  • Essay, 2,500 words (50%)
  • Referencing exercise: 25 multiple-choice questions (25%)
  • Essay planning exercise (25%)
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