MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice

This MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice programme at Staffordshire University is designed for graduates and practitioners who want to enhance their understanding of the complex debates and issues surrounding crime and the criminal justice system. The course provides an opportunity to study both theoretical criminology and the applied aspects of criminal justice, allowing you to gain a deeper insight into the field.

Through an engaging educational experience, you will be encouraged to take responsibility for your learning and share knowledge with peers and staff. The programme has a strong research focus, helping you develop the skills to design, manage, and complete a research project to a professional standard.

Students will gain an understanding of modern criminological perspectives on crime and social control, as well as insights into criminal justice and penal processes. The curriculum covers various data collection methods and culminates in a significant research dissertation. Students can study the MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice course full-time for 1 year or part-time for 2 years, with options to study on campus in Stoke-on-Trent or via distance learning.

Staffordshire University is a forward-thinking institution with over a century of history, known for transforming lives through education and innovation. It empowers individuals to reach their full potential and contribute meaningfully to society. With world-class researchers and academic leaders, the university prepares students and graduates for the workforce through industry-focused education and robust research, making them job-ready and equipped to make a positive impact.

The university offers an excellent learning environment with modern facilities, specialist labs, and state-of-the-art technology. It provides a wide range of academic programmes, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in fields like Health, Law, Engineering, Business, and the Arts, as well as computing and digital technologies.

Applicants are required to submit a personal statement, academic or employer reference, and a detailed research proposal, with an optional CV, to show their suitability for the course.

Grade Requirements:

• Applicants need an honours degree with at least a 2.2 classification from a recognised university or body.
• If your undergraduate degree is in Sociology, Law, Criminal Justice, Forensic Investigation, or a related field, you can apply.
• Applicants with significant professional experience may also be considered.

English Proficiency:

• Applicants need a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.0, with a minimum of 5.5 in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
• TOEFL and PTE are also accepted.

For the academic year 2025/26, the tuition fee for the MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice programme is £16,750 for International Students.

Staffordshire University offers various scholarships and bursaries for postgraduate students, including the SMART Scholarship, which gives eligible international students a £3,000 tuition fee discount for September 2025 and January 2026 entry. This scholarship is automatically awarded as part of the admissions process, so there's no need to fill out a separate form. Additionally, former students returning for postgraduate study can get a 20% alumni discount. The university also offers other scholarships, such as the Performance Athlete Scholarship Scheme, PGCE Bursary, and Dr Ruth Thompson scholarships.

An MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice prepares graduates for career paths as:

• Crime Analyst / Criminal Intelligence Analyst
• Police Officer
• Probation Officer
• Criminologist / Social Science Researcher
• Fraud Investigator

To apply for this course, candidates should apply directly, using the University’s online application portal. For further assistance, please reach out to our trained advisors.