Module: CRI5001-20 Criminal Justice: Theory, Policy and Practice
Level: 5
Credit Value: 20
Module Tutor: Rosalchen Whitecross
Module Tutor Contact Details: r.whitecross@bathspa.ac.uk
1. Brief description and aims of module:
The module examines contemporary criminological concerns and current policies in the context of the administration of criminal justice and corrections. Building on your knowledge of crime and criminological theories, in your first year of study you will develop your understanding by applying these to the agencies, systems and processes of criminal justice. You will learn about key debates on justice, sentencing, punishment, victimisation and the governance, management and reform of criminal justice. In addition, you will explore the social dimensions of crime (including gender, race and ethnicity, class, age and the life course) and how these impact on the enactment of criminal justice procedures and corrections and their experience by offenders.
2. Outline syllabus:
The curriculum will be drawn from topics which may include:
Criminal justice systems in England and Wales, Scotland and Ireland
Criminal justice agencies
Theories and models of criminal justice
Police and prosecution
Courts and the judiciary
Sentencing
Theories of punishment and corrections
Diversity and the criminal justice system
Juveniles and youth offending
Prisons and imprisonment
Community justice and probation
Politics and policies of criminal justice
Privatisation and mixed economies of criminal justice
Offender management
Multi-agency and partnership working
Discretion, autonomy and decision-making
Victims and victimology
3. Teaching and learning activities:
This module will be delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars. Lectures will introduce each topic with an overview of central issues and problems. Seminars will provide an opportunity for interactive and immersive learning including discussion and debates on key readings and the ability to learn and use skills and techniques of criminal justice practices in simulated settings.
Assessment Type: Course Work
Description: Briefing paper (2,500 words)
% Weighting: 50%
Assessment Type: Course Work
Description: Essay (2,500 words)
% Weighting: 50%