Course description:
Defining crime and an introduction to the criminal justice system. An examination of the historical origins and contemporary theoretical perspectives on the causes of crime and criminality including: physical and genetic factors; psychological theories; and sociologically based theories of crime. An introduction into the nature of and uses of criminal statistics.
Course Aims:
Course outcomes:
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to conduct:
- Introduction to the basic theoretical areas which comprise the fundamental conceptual paradigms of criminology.
- A critical review of the definitional issues that underpin the study of criminality and deviance.
- A critical examination of how criminal statistics are compiled and interpreted within both the criminal justice system and empirical research.
- An examination of the criminal justice system focusing on the application of classical deterrence theory.
- A historical review of the development of criminological theory.
- A critical examination of the primary contemporary criminological perspectives.
- The development of good interpersonal and communication skills.
- To improve legal research skills.
- The development of both oral and written advocacy skills.