MSc Public Health and Social Care in Practice
The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), United Kingdom, offers an MSc Publ...
BA (Hons) Law and Criminology
Swansea
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD), located in the United Kingdom, offers a comprehensive BA (Hons) Law and Criminology program that provides students with a deep and critical understanding of both the English Legal System and the multifaceted field of criminology. This interdisciplinary degree explores the institutions, practices, policies, and processes related to law, justice, and punishment, examining how they evolve in response to crime. The program aims to develop strong professional and intellectual skills, including critical thinking, complex problem-solving, creativity, and reflection, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers within the legal and criminal justice sectors, as well as broader employment opportunities. The course emphasizes turning theory into practice, offering a foundational understanding of the laws that govern daily life alongside a critical perspective on criminological thought, its historical and political underpinnings, and practical applications.
Curriculum: The BA (Hons) Law and Criminology curriculum at UWTSD is a three-year full-time program structured to provide a progressive and in-depth learning experience. In the first year (Level 4), students establish foundational knowledge with compulsory modules such as "Criminal Law," "Introduction to Criminology," "Legal Process," "Preparing for Employment," "Public Law," and "Study Skills." The second year (Level 5) delves deeper into specialized areas including "Contract Law," "Family Law and Practice," "Preparing for Criminological Research," "Tort Law," and "Understanding Crime, Justice and Punishment," often complemented by a "Volunteering" module providing practical experience. The final year (Level 6) explores advanced topics such as "Crime and Vulnerability," "Equity and Trusts," "Gender, Race, Religion and Crime," and "Land Law," culminating in a significant "Independent Project" (40 credits). Assessment methods typically include a mixture of written coursework and examinations, with each 20-credit module generally equating to two assessments (e.g., a 2000-word assignment or an exam per 10 credits).
Research Focus: The research focus within the BA (Hons) Law and Criminology program at UWTSD is intrinsically applied and critical, encouraging students to systematically analyze the institutions, practices, policies, and processes of law, justice, and punishment. Through the curriculum, students develop a critical understanding of criminological theories, their historical and political foundations, and their practical application in addressing crime. The "Independent Project" in the final year serves as a cornerstone for individual research, allowing students to delve deeply into a specific area of law or criminology that interests them, conducting in-depth investigations and applying theoretical knowledge to contemporary issues. This emphasis on research, interpretation, and critical evaluation prepares graduates to contribute to evidence-based practices and policy development within their chosen fields.
Industry Engagement: UWTSD places a strong emphasis on industry engagement for its BA (Hons) Law and Criminology program, aiming to provide students with practical experience and enhance their employability. The program focuses on developing professional skills relevant to careers in law and criminology contexts. Opportunities for "live" projects, work placements, and links with industry are embedded within the curriculum. For instance, modules like "Preparing for Employment" and "Volunteering: The Gateway to Employment" directly support students in gaining practical experience and understanding the demands of the workplace. The South Wales Business School at UWTSD, which includes legal education, emphasizes industry engagement and a challenge-based curriculum, preparing students for their careers. The availability of facilities like a moot court also allows for realistic mock trials and practical application of legal knowledge.
Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Law and Criminology program at UWTSD inherently incorporates a global perspective by examining issues of crime, justice, and punishment within broader societal contexts. While focusing on the English Legal System, the study of criminology naturally involves understanding the causes, consequences, and responses to crime that often have international dimensions, such as transnational crime, human rights issues, and comparative justice systems. Modules like "Gender, Race, Religion and Crime" encourage students to explore the complexities of crime and justice from diverse perspectives, which can include global comparisons. The program aims to provide graduates with a wider understanding of the world in which legal and criminal justice systems function, equipping them with intellectual skills applicable in various international contexts, whether pursuing careers abroad or working with international aspects of law and criminology within the UK.
Location
Swansea
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 13500
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% 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.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) is supporting international students by providing a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help reduce the cost of tuition fees and make studying in the UK more accessible. UWTSD offers various scholarships based on academic merit, country of origin, and specific program requirements.
Undergraduate Merit Scholarships: International students applying for undergraduate programs at UWTSD are eligible for Merit Scholarships. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic achievements and help reduce the financial burden of tuition fees. Scholarships are available for international students who meet the academic criteria, making it an excellent opportunity for students from diverse backgrounds.
Country-Specific Scholarships: UWTSD offers Country-Specific Scholarships for students from particular regions or countries. These scholarships are tailored to students from countries with strong links to the university or who are studying specific courses. The scholarships can range from partial fee waivers to more substantial financial support and are typically awarded based on academic merit and the applicant’s background.
Early Payment Discounts: Students who pay their tuition fees early can benefit from an early payment discount. This discount is available to international students who pay their tuition fees in full before the specified deadline. The early payment discount typically depending on the program and level of study.
A BA (Hons) in Law and Criminology from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) provides graduates with a unique interdisciplinary skillset, combining a foundational understanding of the English Legal System with critical insights into the causes, consequences, and responses to crime. This dual focus equips students with strong analytical, research, and problem-solving abilities, alongside a deep appreciation for the complexities of justice, punishment, and societal issues. Graduates are well-prepared for a wide array of roles within the legal and criminal justice sectors, as well as positions requiring critical thinking, ethical judgment, and communication skills in broader public and private spheres.
Police Officer/Detective: Applying knowledge of criminal law, criminology, and investigative techniques to maintain law and order, prevent crime, and conduct criminal investigations. This can include uniformed roles or specializing as a detective.
Probation Officer: Working with offenders and ex-offenders to help them reintegrate into society, reduce reoffending, and ensure public safety, often involving supervision, support, and rehabilitation programs.
Prison Officer: Maintaining security, order, and discipline within correctional facilities while supporting the rehabilitation of prisoners and contributing to their welfare.
Paralegal: Providing essential support to solicitors and barristers by conducting legal research, drafting documents, preparing for trials, and managing case files. This is a common entry point into the legal profession.
Crime Analyst: Utilizing data and analytical skills to identify crime patterns, trends, and hotspots, providing insights to law enforcement agencies to aid in crime prevention and resource allocation.
Social Worker (particularly within the criminal justice system): Supporting individuals and families affected by crime, working with offenders, victims, and vulnerable populations to address social issues and facilitate positive change.
Youth Offending Team Officer: Working with young offenders to prevent reoffending, providing support and guidance to help them make positive life choices and reintegrate into the community.
Intelligence Analyst: Collecting and analyzing information to identify threats to national security or public safety, often working for government agencies such as the National Crime Agency or security services.
Civil Service Administrator: Working in various government departments and agencies (e.g., Ministry of Justice, Home Office) to develop and implement policies related to crime, justice, and public services.
Victim Support Officer/Advocate: Providing practical and emotional support to victims of crime, guiding them through the criminal justice process, and advocating on their behalf.
