Psychological Research and Skills introduces you to the core methods and academic skills that underpin successful study in psychology. The module explores both quantitative and qualitative research approaches, examining how studies are designed, conducted and interpreted, alongside key ethical considerations. You will develop an understanding of how psychological knowledge is generated and evaluated, building confidence in engaging with research literature. Alongside this, the module supports the development of essential academic skills, including critical thinking, academic writing, referencing and independent learning. By integrating research training with study skills, you gain essential research and analytical skills to progress confidently through the degree.

Psychological Approaches introduces you to the core perspectives that underpin the study of mind and behaviour. Bringing together biological, cognitive, social and developmental approaches, the module provides a holistic foundation for understanding how psychologists explain human thought and action. You will explore the key theories, concepts and research associated with each perspective, as well as their historical development and ongoing influence within the discipline. The module also highlights the diversity of psychological approaches, encouraging students to consider how different perspectives offer complementary or competing explanations. By engaging with both classic and contemporary research, you will develop the ability to evaluate evidence critically providing essential knowledge for further study in psychology.

Introduction to Criminology offers you a comprehensive introduction to crime, criminal behaviour, and the social responses that shape justice systems. The module examines key theoretical perspectives, including classical, psychological, and sociological approaches, alongside contemporary ideas on environment, opportunity, and social control. You will explore how crime is defined, measured, and represented, developing critical awareness of the social, cultural, and political factors that influence both research and public perception. Practical elements, including digital crime mapping and analysis of publicly available data, enable you to apply theory to real-world contexts while developing essential skills in evidence-based reasoning, critical thinking, and digital literacy. By the end of the module, you will be prepared to engage confidently with criminological theory and research at higher levels.

Media and Crime explores the complex relationship between crime, criminal justice, and the media in contemporary society. The module examines how crime is constructed and represented across traditional news outlets, digital platforms, and entertainment genres, and how these narratives shape public perceptions, influence policy, and contribute to societal understandings of deviance and justice. You engage with key criminological theories, including moral panic, labelling, cultivation, and framing, alongside critical perspectives such as feminist, Marxist, postmodern, and cultural criminology. The module also considers the role of race, gender, and class in media portrayals, digital media influences, and ethical issues such as sensationalism. Through critical analysis, you develop media literacy and the ability to evaluate the wider social and policy implications of crime representations.

Well-being and Human Flourishing introduces you to the study of health and positive psychology, exploring the factors that contribute to everyday wellness, happiness, and human potential. The module examines key theories, historical developments, and research methods that explain how behaviours, choices, and social environments influence quality of life. You will consider practical applications for maintaining physical, psychological, social, and emotional well-being, including healthy lifestyle habits, stress management, and relationship dynamics. Through reflection and experiential activities, the module encourages you to apply psychological knowledge to your own lives and appreciate the interaction between individual behaviours, personal environment, and social influences. By the end of the module, you will have developed understanding of core principles for understanding the science of flourishing and the promotion of lifelong wellness.

Research Participation gives you first-hand experience of psychological research by actively engaging in ongoing studies. The module allows you to observe how research is designed, conducted, and analysed, while considering key ethical principles such as informed consent and confidentiality. By taking part in a variety of studies, you develop practical skills in research methodology, data collection, and digital literacy. The experiential nature of the module also encourages critical reflection on research processes, fostering an understanding of how empirical evidence informs psychological theory and practice. Participation supports the development of self-organisation, collaborative working, and professional communication, while providing insights that can guide the design and focus of your own future research projects.

This module applies the principles of biological and cognitive psychology to quantitative research, building on your prior study of psychological approaches and research methods. You will explore key theories, concepts, and contemporary debates in areas such as memory, perception, emotion, language, and decision-making, while developing practical skills in experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis. Emphasis is placed on ethical research practice, reliability and validity, and the interpretation of findings using statistical software. By integrating theoretical knowledge with applied quantitative methods, you gain the skills to design, conduct, and report quantitative studies, critically evaluate methods and findings, and communicate results in line with professional scientific standards.

This module applies social and developmental psychology to qualitative research, building on your prior study of psychological approaches and research methods. You will explore key theories, concepts, and contemporary debates in areas such as social influence, stereotyping, aggression, life-span development, and developmental social psychology. Emphasis is placed on qualitative research methods, including interviews, focus groups, visual data, and social media analysis, alongside ethical and reflexive considerations. You gain practical experience using analytical software to interpret data, and develop skills in designing, conducting, and reporting research. By integrating theory with applied qualitative methods, the module equips you to critically evaluate evidence, communicate findings effectively, and undertake rigorous research in social and developmental psychology. 

Applied Criminological Theory develops your understanding of key sociological and psychological criminological theories and their relevance to contemporary crime and social issues. The module critically explores individual, situational, and structural explanations of offending, situating theories within their social, political, and historical contexts. You examine a range of perspectives, including psychological positivism, cognitive behavioural theory, labelling theory, feminist and critical approaches, developmental and life-course criminology, and green criminology. Emphasis is placed on connecting theory to contemporary social problems such as youth violence, domestic abuse, digital harms, and environmental protest. Through analysis, case studies, and policy evaluation, you enhance your ability to critically assess competing theoretical perspectives, understand your strengths and limitations, and communicate complex criminological ideas effectively in a scholarly context.

This module explores the experiences, rights, and needs of victims, addressing the social, legal, and political constructions of victimhood. You examine a range of victimisation types, including interpersonal, structural, institutional, and state harms through theoretical frameworks, case studies, and policy analysis. Emphasis is placed on evaluating justice and social policy responses, understanding media representations, and considering the role of victims in the criminal justice process. The module develops your critical thinking, research, and policy literacy skills, enabling you to synthesise empirical evidence and communicate informed recommendations. By engaging with contemporary debates and real-world applications, you gain a comprehensive understanding of victimisation and the tools to advocate for effective, inclusive, and ethically informed responses.

Research Participation gives you first-hand experience of psychological research by actively engaging in ongoing studies. The module allows you to observe how research is designed, conducted, and analysed, while considering key ethical principles such as informed consent and confidentiality. By taking part in a variety of studies, you develop practical skills in research methodology, data collection, and digital literacy. The experiential nature of the module also encourages critical reflection on research processes, fostering an understanding of how empirical evidence informs psychological theory and practice. Participation supports the development of self-organisation, collaborative working, and professional communication, while providing insights that can guide the design and focus of your own future research projects.

Psychology Project enables you to plan, conduct, and report an independent empirical research project, integrating the skills and knowledge gained from previous modules. The module develops advanced competence in research design, methodology, data analysis, and ethical practice, while fostering autonomy, project management, and critical reflection. You communicate your findings through a structured research report and a poster presentation, building professional and transferable skills in scientific communication. By undertaking a substantial project, you enhance your ability to formulate research questions, synthesise literature, select appropriate methods, analyse data rigorously, and evaluate findings in the context of theory and practice, preparing them for postgraduate study and research-focused careers.

Pathways to Psychopathology introduces you to the theories, research, and assessment methods used to understand and classify human characteristics and behaviour. The module critically examines the distinction between “normal” and “abnormal” traits, exploring historical and contemporary perspectives on the origins of psychopathology, individual differences, and the effectiveness of specific interventions. You engage with psychometric testing, theoretical paradigms, and research evidence to evaluate how human behaviour is conceptualised, measured, and applied in real-world contexts. Through critical reflection, you develop the ability to analyse and interpret theoretical and empirical developments, considering the ethical, scientific, and practical implications for individuals and society.

Forensic Psychology introduces you to the application of psychological theory and research within criminal justice contexts, including policing, prisons, probation, and courtrooms. The module examines how forensic psychology contributes to understanding, predicting, and preventing criminal behaviour, alongside evaluation of offender management, rehabilitation, and risk assessment practices. You critically engage with key topics such as offender profiling, crime scene analysis, eyewitness testimony, personality disorders, and cybercrime, linking theory to practical investigation and intervention strategies. The module develops analytical, evaluative, and applied skills, fostering insight into the interaction between psychology, law, and society.

Criminal Justice explores the processes, practices, and institutions that make up the UK criminal justice system. The module adopts a holistic perspective, covering the full lifecycle from initial intervention by agencies, through prosecution and courts processes, to traditional and alternative sentencing, ‘aftercare’, and risk management. You critically examine the role of multistakeholder partnership working and the social, economic, and political factors shaping criminal justice. The module develops understanding of policy and practice developments, the differentiated and unequal impact of criminal justice on diverse groups, and the exercise of discretion by CJS actors, while fostering analytical, evaluative, and reflective skills relevant to both academic study and professional practice.

Youth Crime and Justice examines how young people who offend are defined, explained, and responded to within the youth justice system in England and Wales. The module explores the political, social, and economic contexts that shape youth justice policy and practice, considering historical and contemporary models of intervention. You critically engage with competing approaches, including welfare, justice, risk-based, and strengths-based frameworks, and analyse their implications for young people, society, and professional practice. The module develops understanding of marginalisation, policy reform, and societal attitudes towards youth, while fostering analytical, evaluative, and communication skills relevant to academic study and careers in youth justice, social policy, and criminal justice.

Globalisation explores the social, economic, political, and cultural processes that shape the contemporary globalised world. The module critically examines competing definitions, theories, and perspectives on globalisation, considering historical developments and contemporary debates about its benefits, challenges, and possible reversal. You engage with multidimensional analyses of economic, political, social, and cultural globalisation, using empirical evidence to evaluate patterns of trade, governance, migration, identity, and cultural exchange. The module develops critical, analytical, and evaluative skills, enabling you to assess the significance and impact of globalisation on individuals, societies, and institutions in a nuanced and evidence-based manner.

Green and Southern Criminology critically examines the intersection of environmental crime, harm, and social injustice. You explore the development, theoretical potential, and practical applications of green and southern criminology, analysing the human and non-human impacts of environmental harms. The module emphasises the uneven distribution of these impacts across individuals, communities, and states, with attention to marginalised populations and the Global South. Through contemporary case studies, you evaluate national and international responses, and consider the role of voice, dialogue, and public participation in addressing environmental and social injustices.

Environment explores the political, sociological, and applied dimensions of environmental change, with particular focus on climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainability. You will critically examine how different political ideologies and sociological perspectives shape understandings of the environment, and will explore applied approaches to responding to environmental challenges, including activism, policy interventions, and corporate social responsibility. Emphasis is placed on developing professional and graduate-ready skills, including environmental communication, strategy development, and public engagement. Through case studies, you will analyse the social, economic, and ethical implications of environmental issues, and consider how individuals, communities, and organisations can act to address these challenges. The module equips you to engage critically and effectively with contemporary environmental issues in both academic and practical contexts.

International Law and Human Rights explores the principles, sources, and structures of international law, with a particular focus on international human rights. You will critically examine the roles of states, international organisations, and legal actors, including the United Nations and international courts and tribunals, in governing global relations and protecting human rights. The module considers key human rights treaties, enforcement mechanisms, and accountability frameworks, enabling you to analyse how legal principles are applied in practice. Through case studies and critical discussion, you will evaluate the effectiveness of international law in promoting justice, safeguarding human rights, and addressing global challenges. The module develops analytical, research, and applied skills necessary to engage with international legal and human rights issues in both academic and professional contexts.

Work Placement provides you with practical work experience and structured career development, integrating placement opportunities with guided reflection and professional skills development. You engage with organisations in commercial or community sectors, observing and participating in workplace practices to understand organisational structures, functions, and social responsibilities. The module emphasises digital fluency, professional communication, and employability skills, including CV and LinkedIn development, interview preparation, and mock interviews. Through reflective practice and career planning, you critically evaluate your strengths, values, and areas for development, connecting experiential learning with personal and professional goals. By combining practical experience, critical reflection, and career-focused skills, the module equips you with the knowledge, adaptability, and professional awareness necessary for lifelong employability and successful progression in contemporary work environments.

Drugs and Society explores the social, political, and philosophical dimensions of drug use and policy, critically examining how drugs are constructed, governed, and debated in contemporary society. You analyse national and international drug strategies, considering the tensions between criminal justice, public health, and education responses, and the implications of policy for individuals, communities, and social control systems. The module encourages critical engagement with key debates, including harm reduction, criminalisation, legalisation, and social inequalities shaped by class, race, and gender. Through application of theoretical perspectives and policy analysis, you develop skills in critical thinking, communication, and applied evaluation. By situating drug issues within wider societal and interdisciplinary contexts, the module equips you to assess the coherence, consequences, and ethical dimensions of drug policy and practice.

Criminal Exploitation explores the nature, causes, and consequences of child and youth criminal exploitation (CCE) in the UK and internationally, with particular emphasis on County Lines and organised criminal networks. You critically examine the social, economic, and structural factors that place children and vulnerable groups at risk, including trauma, marginalisation, and inequality, alongside issues of gender and race. The module evaluates intervention strategies such as trauma-informed care, contextual safeguarding, and youth diversion, considering their effectiveness in safeguarding and disrupting exploitative networks. Through comparative case studies and criminological theory, you develop skills in policy analysis, evidence evaluation, and ethical decision-making, equipping you to critically assess prevention and response strategies, and to formulate informed recommendations for practice, policy, and community safety in contexts of child and youth exploitation.

Organised and Corporate Crime examines the nature, development, and impacts of organised criminal gangs, corporate actors, and state crime in contemporary society. You critically explore a range of manifestations, including human trafficking, sexual exploitation, drugs and weapons trafficking, financial and cybercrime, bribery, corruption, terrorism, and the narcotics-terrorism nexus. Emphasis is placed on how globalisation and the relative disaggregation of borders facilitate criminal activity and increase risks to states and societies. The module evaluates national and international responses, exploring theoretical frameworks, policy measures, and enforcement strategies. Through comparative case studies and applied analysis, you develop skills in critical evaluation, risk assessment, and policy appraisal, equipping you to understand the complexity of organised and corporate crime and contribute to informed responses across legal, social, and governmental contexts.

Psychological Research and Skills introduces you to the core methods and academic skills that underpin successful study in psychology. The module explores both quantitative and qualitative research approaches, examining how studies are designed, conducted and interpreted, alongside key ethical considerations. You will develop an understanding of how psychological knowledge is generated and evaluated, building confidence in engaging with research literature. Alongside this, the module supports the development of essential academic skills, including critical thinking, academic writing, referencing and independent learning. By integrating research training with study skills, you gain essential research and analytical skills to progress confidently through the degree.

Psychological Approaches introduces you to the core perspectives that underpin the study of mind and behaviour. Bringing together biological, cognitive, social and developmental approaches, the module provides a holistic foundation for understanding how psychologists explain human thought and action. You will explore the key theories, concepts and research associated with each perspective, as well as their historical development and ongoing influence within the discipline. The module also highlights the diversity of psychological approaches, encouraging students to consider how different perspectives offer complementary or competing explanations. By engaging with both classic and contemporary research, you will develop the ability to evaluate evidence critically providing essential knowledge for further study in psychology.

Introduction to Criminology offers you a comprehensive introduction to crime, criminal behaviour, and the social responses that shape justice systems. The module examines key theoretical perspectives, including classical, psychological, and sociological approaches, alongside contemporary ideas on environment, opportunity, and social control. You will explore how crime is defined, measured, and represented, developing critical awareness of the social, cultural, and political factors that influence both research and public perception. Practical elements, including digital crime mapping and analysis of publicly available data, enable you to apply theory to real-world contexts while developing essential skills in evidence-based reasoning, critical thinking, and digital literacy. By the end of the module, you will be prepared to engage confidently with criminological theory and research at higher levels.

Media and Crime explores the complex relationship between crime, criminal justice, and the media in contemporary society. The module examines how crime is constructed and represented across traditional news outlets, digital platforms, and entertainment genres, and how these narratives shape public perceptions, influence policy, and contribute to societal understandings of deviance and justice. You engage with key criminological theories, including moral panic, labelling, cultivation, and framing, alongside critical perspectives such as feminist, Marxist, postmodern, and cultural criminology. The module also considers the role of race, gender, and class in media portrayals, digital media influences, and ethical issues such as sensationalism. Through critical analysis, you develop media literacy and the ability to evaluate the wider social and policy implications of crime representations.

Well-being and Human Flourishing introduces you to the study of health and positive psychology, exploring the factors that contribute to everyday wellness, happiness, and human potential. The module examines key theories, historical developments, and research methods that explain how behaviours, choices, and social environments influence quality of life. You will consider practical applications for maintaining physical, psychological, social, and emotional well-being, including healthy lifestyle habits, stress management, and relationship dynamics. Through reflection and experiential activities, the module encourages you to apply psychological knowledge to your own lives and appreciate the interaction between individual behaviours, personal environment, and social influences. By the end of the module, you will have developed understanding of core principles for understanding the science of flourishing and the promotion of lifelong wellness.

Research Participation gives you first-hand experience of psychological research by actively engaging in ongoing studies. The module allows you to observe how research is designed, conducted, and analysed, while considering key ethical principles such as informed consent and confidentiality. By taking part in a variety of studies, you develop practical skills in research methodology, data collection, and digital literacy. The experiential nature of the module also encourages critical reflection on research processes, fostering an understanding of how empirical evidence informs psychological theory and practice. Participation supports the development of self-organisation, collaborative working, and professional communication, while providing insights that can guide the design and focus of your own future research projects.

This module applies the principles of biological and cognitive psychology to quantitative research, building on your prior study of psychological approaches and research methods. You will explore key theories, concepts, and contemporary debates in areas such as memory, perception, emotion, language, and decision-making, while developing practical skills in experimental design, data collection, and statistical analysis. Emphasis is placed on ethical research practice, reliability and validity, and the interpretation of findings using statistical software. By integrating theoretical knowledge with applied quantitative methods, you gain the skills to design, conduct, and report quantitative studies, critically evaluate methods and findings, and communicate results in line with professional scientific standards.

This module applies social and developmental psychology to qualitative research, building on your prior study of psychological approaches and research methods. You will explore key theories, concepts, and contemporary debates in areas such as social influence, stereotyping, aggression, life-span development, and developmental social psychology. Emphasis is placed on qualitative research methods, including interviews, focus groups, visual data, and social media analysis, alongside ethical and reflexive considerations. You gain practical experience using analytical software to interpret data, and develop skills in designing, conducting, and reporting research. By integrating theory with applied qualitative methods, the module equips you to critically evaluate evidence, communicate findings effectively, and undertake rigorous research in social and developmental psychology.

Applied Criminological Theory develops your understanding of key sociological and psychological criminological theories and their relevance to contemporary crime and social issues. The module critically explores individual, situational, and structural explanations of offending, situating theories within their social, political, and historical contexts. You examine a range of perspectives, including psychological positivism, cognitive behavioural theory, labelling theory, feminist and critical approaches, developmental and life-course criminology, and green criminology. Emphasis is placed on connecting theory to contemporary social problems such as youth violence, domestic abuse, digital harms, and environmental protest. Through analysis, case studies, and policy evaluation, you enhance your ability to critically assess competing theoretical perspectives, understand your strengths and limitations, and communicate complex criminological ideas effectively in a scholarly context.

This module explores the experiences, rights, and needs of victims, addressing the social, legal, and political constructions of victimhood. You examine a range of victimisation types, including interpersonal, structural, institutional, and state harms through theoretical frameworks, case studies, and policy analysis. Emphasis is placed on evaluating justice and social policy responses, understanding media representations, and considering the role of victims in the criminal justice process. The module develops your critical thinking, research, and policy literacy skills, enabling you to synthesise empirical evidence and communicate informed recommendations. By engaging with contemporary debates and real-world applications, you gain a comprehensive understanding of victimisation and the tools to advocate for effective, inclusive, and ethically informed responses.

Research Participation gives you first-hand experience of psychological research by actively engaging in ongoing studies. The module allows you to observe how research is designed, conducted, and analysed, while considering key ethical principles such as informed consent and confidentiality. By taking part in a variety of studies, you develop practical skills in research methodology, data collection, and digital literacy. The experiential nature of the module also encourages critical reflection on research processes, fostering an understanding of how empirical evidence informs psychological theory and practice. Participation supports the development of self-organisation, collaborative working, and professional communication, while providing insights that can guide the design and focus of your own future research projects.

Psychology Project enables you to plan, conduct, and report an independent empirical research project, integrating the skills and knowledge gained from previous modules. The module develops advanced competence in research design, methodology, data analysis, and ethical practice, while fostering autonomy, project management, and critical reflection. You communicate your findings through a structured research report and a poster presentation, building professional and transferable skills in scientific communication. By undertaking a substantial project, you enhance your ability to formulate research questions, synthesise literature, select appropriate methods, analyse data rigorously, and evaluate findings in the context of theory and practice, preparing them for postgraduate study and research-focused careers.

Pathways to Psychopathology introduces you to the theories, research, and assessment methods used to understand and classify human characteristics and behaviour. The module critically examines the distinction between “normal” and “abnormal” traits, exploring historical and contemporary perspectives on the origins of psychopathology, individual differences, and the effectiveness of specific interventions. You engage with psychometric testing, theoretical paradigms, and research evidence to evaluate how human behaviour is conceptualised, measured, and applied in real-world contexts. Through critical reflection, you develop the ability to analyse and interpret theoretical and empirical developments, considering the ethical, scientific, and practical implications for individuals and society.

Forensic Psychology introduces you to the application of psychological theory and research within criminal justice contexts, including policing, prisons, probation, and courtrooms. The module examines how forensic psychology contributes to understanding, predicting, and preventing criminal behaviour, alongside evaluation of offender management, rehabilitation, and risk assessment practices. You critically engage with key topics such as offender profiling, crime scene analysis, eyewitness testimony, personality disorders, and cybercrime, linking theory to practical investigation and intervention strategies. The module develops analytical, evaluative, and applied skills, fostering insight into the interaction between psychology, law, and society.

Criminal Justice explores the processes, practices, and institutions that make up the UK criminal justice system. The module adopts a holistic perspective, covering the full lifecycle from initial intervention by agencies, through prosecution and courts processes, to traditional and alternative sentencing, ‘aftercare’, and risk management. You critically examine the role of multistakeholder partnership working and the social, economic, and political factors shaping criminal justice. The module develops understanding of policy and practice developments, the differentiated and unequal impact of criminal justice on diverse groups, and the exercise of discretion by CJS actors, while fostering analytical, evaluative, and reflective skills relevant to both academic study and professional practice.

Youth Crime and Justice examines how young people who offend are defined, explained, and responded to within the youth justice system in England and Wales. The module explores the political, social, and economic contexts that shape youth justice policy and practice, considering historical and contemporary models of intervention. You critically engage with competing approaches, including welfare, justice, risk-based, and strengths-based frameworks, and analyse their implications for young people, society, and professional practice. The module develops understanding of marginalisation, policy reform, and societal attitudes towards youth, while fostering analytical, evaluative, and communication skills relevant to academic study and careers in youth justice, social policy, and criminal justice.

Globalisation explores the social, economic, political, and cultural processes that shape the contemporary globalised world. The module critically examines competing definitions, theories, and perspectives on globalisation, considering historical developments and contemporary debates about its benefits, challenges, and possible reversal. You engage with multidimensional analyses of economic, political, social, and cultural globalisation, using empirical evidence to evaluate patterns of trade, governance, migration, identity, and cultural exchange. The module develops critical, analytical, and evaluative skills, enabling you to assess the significance and impact of globalisation on individuals, societies, and institutions in a nuanced and evidence-based manner.

Green and Southern Criminology critically examines the intersection of environmental crime, harm, and social injustice. You explore the development, theoretical potential, and practical applications of green and southern criminology, analysing the human and non-human impacts of environmental harms. The module emphasises the uneven distribution of these impacts across individuals, communities, and states, with attention to marginalised populations and the Global South. Through contemporary case studies, you evaluate national and international responses, and consider the role of voice, dialogue, and public participation in addressing environmental and social injustices.

Environment explores the political, sociological, and applied dimensions of environmental change, with particular focus on climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainability. You will critically examine how different political ideologies and sociological perspectives shape understandings of the environment, and will explore applied approaches to responding to environmental challenges, including activism, policy interventions, and corporate social responsibility. Emphasis is placed on developing professional and graduate-ready skills, including environmental communication, strategy development, and public engagement. Through case studies, you will analyse the social, economic, and ethical implications of environmental issues, and consider how individuals, communities, and organisations can act to address these challenges. The module equips you to engage critically and effectively with contemporary environmental issues in both academic and practical contexts.

International Law and Human Rights explores the principles, sources, and structures of international law, with a particular focus on international human rights. You will critically examine the roles of states, international organisations, and legal actors, including the United Nations and international courts and tribunals, in governing global relations and protecting human rights. The module considers key human rights treaties, enforcement mechanisms, and accountability frameworks, enabling you to analyse how legal principles are applied in practice. Through case studies and critical discussion, you will evaluate the effectiveness of international law in promoting justice, safeguarding human rights, and addressing global challenges. The module develops analytical, research, and applied skills necessary to engage with international legal and human rights issues in both academic and professional contexts.

Work Placement provides you with practical work experience and structured career development, integrating placement opportunities with guided reflection and professional skills development. You engage with organisations in commercial or community sectors, observing and participating in workplace practices to understand organisational structures, functions, and social responsibilities. The module emphasises digital fluency, professional communication, and employability skills, including CV and LinkedIn development, interview preparation, and mock interviews. Through reflective practice and career planning, you critically evaluate your strengths, values, and areas for development, connecting experiential learning with personal and professional goals. By combining practical experience, critical reflection, and career-focused skills, the module equips you with the knowledge, adaptability, and professional awareness necessary for lifelong employability and successful progression in contemporary work environments.

Drugs and Society explores the social, political, and philosophical dimensions of drug use and policy, critically examining how drugs are constructed, governed, and debated in contemporary society. You analyse national and international drug strategies, considering the tensions between criminal justice, public health, and education responses, and the implications of policy for individuals, communities, and social control systems. The module encourages critical engagement with key debates, including harm reduction, criminalisation, legalisation, and social inequalities shaped by class, race, and gender. Through application of theoretical perspectives and policy analysis, you develop skills in critical thinking, communication, and applied evaluation. By situating drug issues within wider societal and interdisciplinary contexts, the module equips you to assess the coherence, consequences, and ethical dimensions of drug policy and practice.

Criminal Exploitation explores the nature, causes, and consequences of child and youth criminal exploitation (CCE) in the UK and internationally, with particular emphasis on County Lines and organised criminal networks. You critically examine the social, economic, and structural factors that place children and vulnerable groups at risk, including trauma, marginalisation, and inequality, alongside issues of gender and race. The module evaluates intervention strategies such as trauma-informed care, contextual safeguarding, and youth diversion, considering their effectiveness in safeguarding and disrupting exploitative networks. Through comparative case studies and criminological theory, you develop skills in policy analysis, evidence evaluation, and ethical decision-making, equipping you to critically assess prevention and response strategies, and to formulate informed recommendations for practice, policy, and community safety in contexts of child and youth exploitation.

Organised and Corporate Crime examines the nature, development, and impacts of organised criminal gangs, corporate actors, and state crime in contemporary society. You critically explore a range of manifestations, including human trafficking, sexual exploitation, drugs and weapons trafficking, financial and cybercrime, bribery, corruption, terrorism, and the narcotics-terrorism nexus. Emphasis is placed on how globalisation and the relative disaggregation of borders facilitate criminal activity and increase risks to states and societies. The module evaluates national and international responses, exploring theoretical frameworks, policy measures, and enforcement strategies. Through comparative case studies and applied analysis, you develop skills in critical evaluation, risk assessment, and policy appraisal, equipping you to understand the complexity of organised and corporate crime and contribute to informed responses across legal, social, and governmental contexts.