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Updated in [May 25th, 2023]

The Crime Justice and Society course provides an introduction to the field of criminal justice. Learners will have the opportunity to learn from academics and professionals from the University of Sheffield’s Centre for Criminological Research, as well as those with firsthand experience of the criminal justice system. The course will cover topics such as the role of the police, victims’ experiences, and alternative responses to crime. It is suitable for those with no prior knowledge or experience of the subject, and those considering an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in criminology or criminal justice. The course is designed to be accessible to learners from any country, and the BA (Hons) in Criminology at the University of Sheffield has recently been ranked number 2 in the Guardian University Guide 2019.

[Applications]

Upon completion of this course, learners will have a better understanding of the criminal justice system and the role of the police, victims, offenders, and other stakeholders. They will also have the opportunity to debate and discuss the issues raised in the course with criminal justice academics and professionals. Learners may also be inspired to pursue further study in the field of criminology or criminal justice.

[Career Paths]

The following are some of the career paths recommended to learners of this course:

1. Police Officer: Police officers are responsible for enforcing laws, protecting citizens, and maintaining public order. They investigate crimes, apprehend suspects, and testify in court. With the increasing focus on community policing, police officers are expected to have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with the public.

2. Probation Officer: Probation officers are responsible for supervising offenders who have been released from prison or sentenced to probation. They monitor offenders’ activities, provide guidance and support, and ensure that offenders comply with the terms of their probation. Probation officers must have strong communication and problem-solving skills.

3. Criminal Lawyer: Criminal lawyers represent clients who have been accused of a crime. They provide legal advice, prepare legal documents, and represent their clients in court. Criminal lawyers must have a thorough understanding of criminal law and procedure, as well as excellent communication and negotiation skills.

4. Victim Advocate: Victim advocates provide support and assistance to victims of crime. They help victims understand their rights, provide emotional support, and connect them with resources and services. Victim advocates must have strong interpersonal skills and the ability to empathize with victims.

[Education Paths]

The following are some degree paths that learners may consider in order to pursue a career in the field of criminology and criminal justice:

1. Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminology: This degree provides a comprehensive overview of the criminal justice system, including topics such as crime prevention, criminal law, and the sociology of crime. It also covers the history and development of criminology, as well as the ethical and legal implications of criminal justice. This degree is becoming increasingly popular as it provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing a career in the field.

2. Master of Science (MSc) in Criminal Justice: This degree provides a more in-depth look at the criminal justice system, with a focus on research and analysis. It covers topics such as criminal justice policy, criminal justice administration, and criminal justice research methods. This degree is ideal for those who want to pursue a career in criminal justice research or policy.

3. Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Criminology: This degree is the highest level of education in the field of criminology and criminal justice. It provides an in-depth look at the criminal justice system, with a focus on research and analysis. It covers topics such as criminal justice theory, criminal justice policy, and criminal justice research methods. This degree is ideal for those who want to pursue a career in criminal justice research or policy.

The field of criminology and criminal justice is rapidly evolving, with new technologies and approaches being developed to address crime and justice issues. As such, there is a growing demand for professionals with the skills and knowledge to understand and respond to these changes. With the right degree, learners can gain the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a successful career in this field.