Criminal Justice MSc
Preston Campus, United Kingdom
Master of Science in Criminal Justice
University of Lancashire
Criminal Justice
MSc Criminal Justice Program Overview
The MSc Criminal Justice at the University of Lancashire develops your ability to understand the Criminal Justice System at both a conceptual and operational level, incorporating UK and international perspectives. You will analyse social, economic and political influences to explore how different societies attempt to control crime and offenders, covering themes such as youth justice, race, gender and the media.
Delivered by tutors with both academic and professional experience, this program is designed for graduates and working professionals seeking to deepen their expertise in criminal justice. The University of Lancashire is one of the largest providers of criminal justice education in the UK, offering a rich learning environment supported by strong partnerships with organisations across the sector.
The program offers flexibility through optional modules that allow you to tailor your studies to your individual interests. A key element is research, providing you with the skills necessary to engage in a criminal justice research project and prepare for advanced study or professional roles in the field.
Key Program Highlights
- One of the UK's largest providers of criminal justice education with extensive professional partnerships
- Flexible optional modules including international criminal law, terrorism, and open source investigation
- Taught by staff with frontline criminal justice experience and active research profiles
- Available in full-time and part-time study modes to accommodate working professionals
Curriculum and Modules
The MSc Criminal Justice curriculum combines compulsory core modules with a range of optional modules, enabling you to build a personalised pathway through the program. Core modules provide a strong foundation in criminal justice systems, research methods and critical analysis, while electives allow you to specialise in areas aligned with your career goals.
Criminal Justice System
20 CreditsDevelops your ability to critically understand the wider criminal justice system at a conceptual and operational level, incorporating UK and international perspectives. Starting with the police, the module moves through the criminal justice system, identifying and critically evaluating key issues and debates.
Research Methods
20 CreditsEquips you with the methodological skills and theoretical understanding necessary to design, conduct and evaluate criminal justice research. You will explore a range of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and learn to critically appraise existing studies.
Safeguarding and Abuse
20 CreditsCovers safeguarding within different types of abuse, providing an evidence-based foundation to think critically about criminal justice. You will review multi-agency responses towards safeguarding, especially towards groups identified as vulnerable, and assess key research in the field.
Comparative Criminal Justice
20 CreditsIntroduces key theoretical approaches to comparative research in criminology and criminal justice. You will examine criminal justice responses to crime in various international jurisdictions and the broader social, economic and political climates that shape criminal justice policy.
Domestic and Sexual Abuse
20 CreditsProvides an evidence-based foundation to think critically about criminal justice and multi-agency responses to domestic and sexual abuse. You will develop an understanding of theoretical and applied perspectives on the characteristics and complexities of these issues, especially towards marginalised groups.
Dissertation / Research Project
60 CreditsProvides the opportunity to undertake an extended programme of independent research on a criminal justice topic of your choosing. You will build on practical skills such as project planning and management, as well as theoretical skills including applying conceptual models and research methodologies.
Optional Specialisation Modules
Admission Requirements
The MSc Criminal Justice program welcomes applications from graduates with a relevant academic background and professionals working in the criminal justice sector. All applications are assessed on individual merit, taking into account academic qualifications, relevant experience and personal statements. Apply through Uni4Edu to begin your application process.
Academic Requirements
- Undergraduate DegreeA good honours degree (minimum 2:2 or equivalent) in a relevant subject area
- Relevant ExperienceProfessional experience in criminal justice or a related field is valued and may support your application
- International QualificationsEquivalent international qualifications are accepted; contact Uni4Edu for country-specific guidance
- Personal StatementA strong personal statement demonstrating your motivation and suitability for the program
- ReferencesTwo academic or professional references supporting your application
English Language Requirements
- IELTSOverall score of 6.0 with no component below 5.5 (or equivalent)
- TOEFL iBTContact Uni4Edu for accepted equivalent scores
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for accepted equivalent scores
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Lancashire offers a range of scholarships, bursaries and financial support options to help students fund their postgraduate studies. International and UK students may be eligible for various funding opportunities. Contact Uni4Edu for personalised guidance on available financial support.
Alumni Loyalty Discount
20% tuition fee reductionGraduates who hold a degree from the University of Lancashire may be eligible for a 20% discount on postgraduate tuition fees. This discount is applied automatically upon verification of your previous qualification.
International Student Scholarship
Financial awards available to international students demonstrating strong academic achievement and potential. Eligibility criteria and award amounts may vary by intake year.
Postgraduate Bursaries and Hardship Funds
Varies by individual circumstanceThe university offers bursaries and hardship funds to support students from low-income households or those facing financial barriers. Contact Uni4Edu for details on eligibility and the application process.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
The MSc Criminal Justice program prepares graduates for diverse roles across the criminal justice sector and the security industry. Some graduates use the qualification for professional development in their current positions, while others pursue new opportunities within UK and international criminal justice contexts. The university's extensive professional partnerships provide valuable networking opportunities and industry connections.
Potential Career Paths
Typical Employing Organisations
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Lancashire is a well-established institution with roots dating back to 1828, recognised in major global and national university rankings. As one of the UK's largest universities, it offers over 400 undergraduate and 200 postgraduate courses and is noted for its strong industry partnerships and commitment to employability.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Criminology | Times Good University Guide | 2nd in North West for Research Quality |
| Criminal Justice Education | University of Lancashire | Largest UK Provider |
| THE Impact Rankings (SDG Gender Equality) | Times Higher Education | #65 Globally |
| Global University Standing | Centre for World University Rankings | Top 3.8% Worldwide |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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