Undergraduate Module Descriptor

SOC1040: Social Issues: Part II - Themes in Criminology

This module descriptor refers to the 2023/4 academic year.

Module Aims

The aim of this module is to introduce you tocore themes in the study of crime and deviance and enable you to think critically and analytically about crime, deviance and harm. Using case studies (e.g policing, terrorism and war), the module will foster your ability to assess and evaluate criminological theories and practices. The module will offer an opportunity to apply qualitative and quantitative methodologies for understanding  trends in crime and criminal behaviour. You will also be encouraged to analyse changes in the ways that state and non-state agencies have responded and reacted to crime and evaluate their overall effectiveness.   

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)

This module's assessment will evaluate your achievement of the ILOs listed here – you will see reference to these ILO numbers in the details of the assessment for this module.
On successfully completing the programme you will be able to:
Module-Specific Skills1. Demonstrate knowledge of the underlying concepts and of strengths and weaknesses of theories of crime and deviance
2. Demonstrate a clear understanding of the qualitative and quantitative methodological foundations of criminology;
3. Identify and locate relevant materials and information in support of research;
4. Synthesise and critically assess the relationship between disciplinary approaches to crime;
Discipline-Specific Skills5. Extend your ability to apply the insights and findings in the literature to the analysis of crime;
6. Conduct independent research;
Personal and Key Skills7. Communicate complex ideas in writing; and
8. Demonstrate the ability to work independently, within a limited time frame, and without access to external sources, to complete a specified task.