MBA Masters of Business Administration
The MBA in Leadership at Bath Spa University is structured to provide a comprehensive u...
BA/BSc (Hons) Criminology and Politics
Newton Park
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA/BSc (Hons) Criminology and Politics program at Bath Spa University is a three-year, full-time course providing a stimulating and intellectually engaging learning experience. It is structured to progressively build foundational knowledge in both criminology and politics in the first year, explore core criminological theories and political concepts in the second, and culminate in specialized studies at the intersection of criminology and politics, along with an interdisciplinary research project in the final year. Students benefit from interactive lectures, engaging seminars incorporating case studies from both criminology and political science, opportunities for applying theoretical frameworks to contemporary social and political issues related to crime and justice, and collaborative group work. A key element involves fostering a critical understanding of how political ideologies and power dynamics shape the definition and control of crime, the development and implementation of criminal justice policies, and the ways in which crime and justice become political issues. The program encourages students to develop their analytical skills and to approach the study of crime and justice with both social scientific and political perspectives.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the BA/BSc (Hons) Criminology and Politics program is designed to provide a comprehensive and integrated understanding of the core areas of both disciplines. Core modules typically cover criminological theory, the sociology of crime and deviance, political theory, government and politics, and research methods. As students progress, they often have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as criminal justice policy, political sociology, human rights, international relations, political economy, and security studies through elective modules that bridge the two disciplines. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, understanding of political processes, research methodologies relevant to the social sciences, and ethical considerations in both criminological research and political action. Students will engage in case study analysis from both criminological and political perspectives, participate in debates on contemporary social and political issues related to crime and justice, and undertake interdisciplinary projects that require them to integrate knowledge from both fields. The final year often includes advanced seminars on current criminological and political debates and a significant interdisciplinary research project or dissertation.
Research Focus: The BA/BSc (Hons) Criminology and Politics program at Bath Spa University benefits from a research-informed learning environment within the School of Humanities and Cultural Industries and the wider Faculty of Business and Law. Faculty members in both disciplines are actively engaged in research related to areas such as criminal justice policy, political sociology, human rights, the politics of crime control, and the social and political dimensions of deviance. This research informs the curriculum, ensuring that students are exposed to current academic debates, theoretical advancements, and empirical findings in both criminology and political science. Students are encouraged to develop their own research interests at the intersection of these fields through assignments and their final year interdisciplinary project, fostering independent learning and critical inquiry.
Industry Engagement: Bath Spa University's BA/BSc (Hons) Criminology and Politics program fosters connections with relevant organizations within government, criminal justice agencies, and policy-oriented institutions. The program may facilitate guest lectures by politicians, policymakers, individuals working in the criminal justice system, and representatives from non-governmental organizations involved in advocacy and social justice. Students may have opportunities for visits to government institutions, courts, and other relevant organizations. While formal placements may vary, the program emphasizes the development of transferable skills relevant to these sectors, such as communication, critical analysis, understanding of policy processes, and research skills. The curriculum often incorporates real-world case studies and policy challenges to enhance students' understanding of professional practice at the intersection of criminology and politics.
Global Perspective: The BA/BSc (Hons) Criminology and Politics program at Bath Spa University incorporates a global perspective by examining international crime trends, comparative criminal justice systems, international political systems, the role of international organizations in addressing crime and political issues, and the impact of globalization on crime, law, and governance. The curriculum may include case studies of crime and justice in different political contexts, discussions on international human rights and criminal justice, and the exploration of global political issues related to crime and security. The university's diverse international student body contributes to a global learning environment, fostering discussions and collaborations across different cultural perspectives on crime, justice, and politics. Furthermore, the program may touch upon topics such as international law, transnational crime, and the political dimensions of global justice, preparing graduates to understand and engage with these issues in a global context.
Location
Newton Park
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17670
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 65% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- DET: A minimum overall score of 110.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
Bath Spa University understands that financing higher education can be a challenge for international students, and to make studying in the UK more accessible, the university offers a range of scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support international students and recognize their academic achievements, helping to reduce the financial burden of tuition fees and living expenses.
International Scholarships: Bath Spa University offers a variety of international scholarships to help non-UK students cover part of their tuition fees. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate international students. The scholarships are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s potential to contribute to the university community.
Undergraduate Scholarships: For undergraduate international students, Bath Spa University offers scholarships that range in value and are awarded to high-achieving students. These scholarships are intended to provide financial assistance to those who demonstrate excellent academic performance and commitment to their studies.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Bath Spa University also provides country-specific scholarships for international students from particular regions. These scholarships are designed to encourage students from specific countries to study at Bath Spa University and contribute to the diverse international student community. Students from certain countries may be eligible for specific funding opportunities based on their nationality. The university’s website provides up-to-date information on country-specific scholarship availability.
Merit-Based Scholarships: Many of Bath Spa University's scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement or outstanding potential in their chosen field of study. Merit scholarships are typically awarded during the application process, and students do not need to apply separately for these awards.
External Scholarship Opportunities: In addition to the university’s internal scholarships, international students at Bath Spa University can also apply for external scholarships offered by government agencies, private organizations, or charitable foundations. Bath Spa University regularly updates a list of external scholarship opportunities that are available to international students. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, travel costs, and living expenses.
Graduates from the intellectually stimulating and highly relevant BA/BSc (Hons) Criminology and Politics program at Bath Spa University develop a highly valuable and interdisciplinary skillset, positioning them for a wide range of fulfilling careers that bridge the understanding of crime, society, and political systems. The program's unique combination of criminological insight and political analysis equips graduates with critical thinking, analytical, ethical awareness, understanding of policy processes, and research skills essential for diverse professional roles within government, criminal justice, policy-oriented organizations, and beyond.
Policy Advisor (Criminal Justice/Social Justice): Researching, analyzing, and developing policy recommendations related to crime prevention, criminal justice reform, and social justice issues for government agencies or NGOs.
Government Administrator/Civil Servant: Working within government departments or agencies involved in areas such as crime prevention, community safety, or social policy, applying their understanding of both crime and political processes.
Political Researcher/Analyst: Conducting research and analyzing political trends and policies related to crime, law and order, and social control for think tanks, political parties, or research institutions.
Advocacy Officer (Social Justice/Human Rights): Working for non-governmental organizations or advocacy groups to promote policy changes and raise awareness about issues related to crime, justice, and human rights.
Community Safety Officer: Developing and implementing local strategies to reduce crime and improve community safety, often working with local authorities and political stakeholders.
Probation Officer (Policy Aware): Supervising offenders with a strong understanding of the political and policy contexts shaping the criminal justice system and rehabilitation efforts.
Youth Justice Worker (Policy Informed): Working with young offenders, applying their knowledge of both criminological theories and the political and legal frameworks of youth justice.
Researcher (Criminology and Political Science): Conducting academic research at the intersection of criminology and political science, exploring the political dimensions of crime and justice.
Intelligence Analyst (Government/Law Enforcement): Analyzing data and information related to crime and security, understanding the political implications of criminal activity.
Political Campaign Organizer (Justice/Social Issues): Working on political campaigns focused on issues related to criminal justice reform, social justice, or human rights, utilizing their understanding of both politics and criminology.
