MSc in Criminology & Criminal Justice
A rigorous master’s programme equipping graduates for careers in crime prevention, justice systems, and compliance roles.
Best for:Best for graduates in social sciences, humanities, law, or related fields seeking a career in criminology, criminal justice, or compliance roles with a focus on evidence-based practice.
Overview
This master’s programme at Ulster University focuses on developing advanced criminological skills tailored for high-impact careers in crime, justice, and compliance. Students engage with interdisciplinary perspectives on criminal behaviour, legal systems, and societal responses to crime. The curriculum blends theoretical frameworks with practical applications, preparing graduates for roles in law enforcement, policy-making, and corporate compliance. The programme is designed for both recent graduates and professionals seeking to specialise in criminology, with flexibility for experiential learning pathways. Ulster University’s Belfast campus provides a dynamic environment for critical analysis and professional development in this field.
What you'll do
- Develop advanced analytical skills to assess criminological theories and their applications in real-world settings.
- Engage in critical analysis of criminal justice policies and their impact on society.
- Explore interdisciplinary approaches to understanding crime, punishment, and rehabilitation.
- Apply criminological knowledge to practical challenges in law enforcement, compliance, and policy-making.
- Collaborate on research projects that address contemporary issues in crime and justice.
- Develop professional competencies for careers in criminology, legal advocacy, or corporate compliance.
Requirements
Degree required: A second-class honours degree (or equivalent) in Social Sciences, Humanities, Law, or a cognate discipline from a recognised university or institution.
Language: English; Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5 or equivalent (e.g., Trinity ISE Pass at Level III).
Instruction: English
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Ability to conduct independent research and write academic papers
- Proficiency in applying criminological theories to practical scenarios
- Basic familiarity with legal and policy frameworks related to crime and justice
- Open to applicants from the UK, Republic of Ireland, or recognised international institutions with equivalent qualifications.
- Substantial experiential learning may be considered as an alternative entrance route via a portfolio of written evidence.
- No specific age or residency restrictions beyond standard university admission criteria.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
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- Teaching language
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- Taught / research mode
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- Study mode
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Application instructions
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- Tuition
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- Funding
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How to apply
Deadline: rolling (advised to apply 2 weeks prior to course start) · open until filled
Applicants can apply directly to Ulster University at any time. The university advises submitting applications no later than two weeks before the course start date to ensure sufficient processing time. Some programmes may require additional steps like interviews or portfolio submissions, so applicants should verify specific deadlines on the course page.
- CV or résumé
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Portfolio of written evidence (for experiential learning applicants)
- Personal statement or research proposal (if required)
Contact
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.