Overview

This module introduces students to the workings of the criminal justice system and the main theoretical approaches in the contemporary study of crime. The theories examined will be relevant to crime prevention strategies and operational policing and include environmental and life-course theories.

Indicative content: Introduction to the criminal justice system and its constituent parts -Introduction to concepts of crime, victimisation, vulnerability and harm -Introduction to the main theories in relation to criminal behaviour - criminal careers and desistance; rational choice theory and situational crime prevention-Understanding vulnerability and how to respond to public protection incidents -Understanding of digital crime and the processing of digital evidence - Understanding of roads policing and the management of offences and incidents.

Learning Outcomes

• Examine a range of key concepts relating to criminology, community engagement, victimisation and crime prevention - Learning outcome 1

• Explain core policing functions and strategies relating to policing the roads - Learning outcome 6

• Explain key concepts, legislation and guidance associated with ‘public protection’ policing - Learning outcome 2

• Explain the criminal justice system and the legislation and processes that support it - Learning outcome 4

• Review the role of the police constable within the criminal justice process - Learning outcome 5

• Understand the challenges relating to internet facilitated crimes and procedures associated with digital policing - Learning outcome 3