BA (Hons) Criminology with Policing

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Criminology with Policing program provides a specialized and integrated study of crime and the practical application of policing strategies. It emphasizes a critical and analytical approach to understanding the causes of crime and the role of police in maintaining order, preventing crime, and investigating offenses. The program encourages students to examine the social, legal, and ethical dimensions of policing, as well as the challenges and opportunities facing law enforcement in a diverse society. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, and practical exercises, students develop a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of modern policing within a criminological framework.

Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a progressive learning experience, starting with foundational modules that introduce core criminological theories, the structure of the criminal justice system, and the history and principles of policing. Students then advance to more specialized modules covering topics such as police powers and procedures, criminal law, crime prevention and community safety, policing diverse communities, intelligence and investigation, contemporary policing challenges (e.g., cybercrime, terrorism), and research methods relevant to criminology and policing. The program encourages students to critically evaluate different policing models and strategies, and to understand the evidence base that informs effective policing practices. A significant component involves developing analytical and problem-solving skills relevant to policing through case studies, simulations, and potentially observational opportunities within policing contexts (where appropriate and ethically sound).

Research Focus: The University of Worcester fosters a research-informed teaching environment within its School of Humanities and Social Science, which directly benefits the BA (Hons) Criminology with Policing program. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various areas of criminology and policing, including police effectiveness, community policing, crime prevention, the impact of technology on policing, and public perceptions of law enforcement. Students benefit from being taught by academics who are actively contributing to their fields and may have opportunities to engage with research through their studies and final-year dissertations. The program aims to cultivate a research-oriented mindset, encouraging students to critically evaluate existing research on policing and contribute their own analytical insights to understanding and improving law enforcement practices.

Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) Criminology with Policing program places a strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers within the policing profession and related agencies. The curriculum often incorporates guest lectures from serving police officers and other criminal justice professionals, providing students with firsthand insights into the realities of policing. The University of Worcester actively seeks to build and maintain links with local and regional police forces and other relevant organizations. This engagement may include opportunities for workshops, career events, and potentially voluntary work or internships (subject to police force policies and vetting procedures), providing students with valuable practical exposure and networking opportunities within the policing community. The aim is to ensure that graduates possess the knowledge, skills, and understanding of the policing landscape that are highly valued by law enforcement employers.

Global Perspective: The University of Worcester welcomes a diverse international student body, enriching the learning experience within the BA (Hons) Criminology with Policing program. Policing practices and challenges are global concerns, and the program encourages students to develop a comparative understanding of different policing models, legal frameworks, and approaches to crime control in various countries. Discussions and analyses often incorporate international examples of policing strategies and responses to crime, and students have opportunities to interact with peers from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a global perspective essential for understanding the complexities of law enforcement in an increasingly interconnected world.