Course description
Course structure
Core modules include Criminal Law Theory, Contemporary Issues in Criminal Law and a dissertation. You'll then choose two of the following options: Lawful and Unlawful Killing, the Criminal Liability of Companies and their Officers, International Criminal Law, European Responses to Crime and Young Offenders and the Criminal Law.
Careers
This course provides an ideal preparation for an academic career in law and careers within the criminal justice system or in law enforcement.
This programme is ideal for graduates who wish to extend their knowledge and critical understanding of the criminal law and specific issues in criminal law.
More information
Core modules
Criminal Law Theory
This module promotes a deeper and critical understanding of the theories that underpin our criminal law. From general legal philosophies to their particular effects on specific areas of the criminal law, this module includes an examination of culpability and blameworthiness. You will be assessed by an individual presentation and reflection, and a 3,000-word essay.
Contemporary Issues in Criminal Law
This module aims to develop the necessary legal research skills for you to complete a dissertation by examining various contemporary issues. You will be assessed through a group presentation with an individual reflection and by completing a dissertation proposal.
Dissertation
A 20,000 word independent research project.
Option modules
Lawful and Unlawful Killing
You will examine factors associated with, and circumstances surrounding, a killing and consider whether the killing amounts to a crime. You will be assessed by a 3,000-word essay and an exam.
The Criminal Liability of Companies and Their Officers
You will explore the development of criminal liability in respect of companies and their officers, comparing the approaches of criminal law and company law. You will be assessed by two 3,000-word essays.
International Criminal Law
You will explore the relationship between criminal law and international law, considering the existence of crimes within the international legal system, from war crimes and genocide, to terrorism. You will be assessed by 3,000-word essay and a three-hour exam.
European Responses to Crime
Establishing an ‘area of freedom, security and justice’ requires implementing ‘flanking measures’ to prevent and combat crime. Areas of concern include terrorism, trafficking, and other organised crime. You will be assessed by a 5,000-word essay.
Young Offenders and the Criminal Law
This module considers young people’s involvement in offending and the domestic and international laws governing their treatment. You will be assessed by a 5,000-word essay.
If you are a part-time student, you will study Criminal Law Theory and an option in your first year. In your second year you will study Contemporary Issues in Criminal Law, a second option and your dissertation.