Master of Arts in Global Criminology
Explore transnational crime, policy, and control through a multidisciplinary, critical lens in the Netherlands.
Best for:Best for graduates with a BA in law, criminology, social sciences, or related fields seeking to specialise in transnational crime, policy, and comparative criminological research.
Overview
This one-year Master’s programme at Utrecht University examines global crime phenomena—from drug trafficking and human smuggling to corporate corruption and environmental harm—through a multidisciplinary, critical, and comparative approach. Located in Utrecht, a hub for international organizations like Europol and the International Criminal Court, the programme leverages the Netherlands’ strategic role in global crime networks. Students will analyse modern instruments for crime control, policy-making, and cross-border collaboration, preparing for careers in academia, law enforcement, international organizations, or policy. The curriculum integrates legal, social, and policy perspectives, catering to graduates from diverse backgrounds such as law, criminology, social sciences, history, or media studies.
What you'll do
- Develop a critical understanding of global crime phenomena and their cross-border implications.
- Analyse and evaluate crime control strategies and policies from a multidisciplinary perspective.
- Engage with real-world case studies on transnational crime, including drug trafficking, human smuggling, and corporate corruption.
- Collaborate with international organizations and stakeholders to understand crime prevention and policy-making.
- Conduct independent research on a specialised topic within global criminology, culminating in a master’s thesis.
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and discussions on contemporary issues in criminology and international law.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in law, criminology, social sciences, or a related field such as economics, history, or media studies
Degree offered: Master of Arts (MA)
Language: English; Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (minimum score 176), Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (minimum score 180), IELTS overall band (minimum 6.5), IELTS writing (minimum 6), or TOEFL internet-based (minimum 93)
Instruction: English
- Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
- Ability to conduct independent research and write academic papers
- Proficiency in conducting comparative and interdisciplinary analysis
- Familiarity with legal and policy frameworks related to crime and justice
- No restrictions on nationality or residency
- Applicants must hold a recognised Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field
- No age restrictions
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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How to apply
Deadline: 2027-04-01
Applicants must submit their application through Utrecht University’s official online portal. Required documents include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal. Additional documents may be requested depending on the applicant’s background.
- CV
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, Cambridge Certificate, etc.)
- Research proposal
Contact
Admissions Office· Master’s Admissions Coordinator
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