Doctorate Criminal Justice

The Doctorate of Criminal Justice (DCrimJ) at Teesside University is designed for professionals, researchers, or volunteers already involved in the criminal justice system who wish to advance their expertise and leadership in the field. This professional doctorate develops advanced critical thinking and judgment skills, enabling students to apply academic insights to real-world practice and influence policy-making within the sector.

Students are taught by experienced academics and professionals who have contributed significantly to criminology, law, and policing research. The course culminates in a doctoral-level research project that makes an original contribution to the field of criminal justice. Learning is delivered through lectures, case studies, and individual supervision sessions with a dedicated academic advisor.

Assessment methods include research reports, critical essays, professional discussions, project proposals, and a final doctoral review evaluating the student's complete research work.

Applicants must already be active within the criminal justice system — as professionals, researchers, or volunteers — and demonstrate a commitment to using advanced research to improve professional practice and policy. All applicants will be interviewed by academic staff as part of the admissions process.

Grade Requirements:

• A master’s level qualification relevant to criminal justice or 60 credits of postgraduate study at Level 7, completed within the last five years.
• At least two years of professional or voluntary experience in a related field.
• Applicants with significant professional experience and other qualifications may also be considered on a case-by-case basis.

English Proficiency:

• Applicants whose first language is not English must have an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no component below 5.5, or an equivalent Secure English Language Test (SELT) score.

The tuition fee for the Doctorate in Criminal Justice from Teesside University, Middlesbrough, for international applicants is £17,000 a year for full-time study.

Teesside University offers financial support options which may include scholarships for eligible students, typically given as a reduction in the tuition fee. Applicants should check the university's funding pages for specific doctoral-level opportunities. For international students, this may include the Vice-Chancellor's Scholarship (£7,000 fee waiver) and the Global Excellence Scholarship (£2,000 fee waiver), which are often available for postgraduate taught or research programmes.

Graduates of the Doctorate of Criminal Justice (DCrimJ) are prepared for high-level leadership and academic roles within the justice sector, including:

• Policy Maker or Advisor
• Senior Manager
• Expert Researcher
• Academic or Lecturer in Criminology or Law
• Consultant Practitioner (Evidence-Based Practice Specialist)

Applications for the Doctorate of Criminal Justice are submitted directly via the Teesside University online portal. Applicants are encouraged to seek assistance from AHZ’s professional counsellors for personalised support throughout the application and documentation process.