Criminological Research (Taught)

There is an increasing focus on the reform of criminal justice systems. This is causing a growing demand for experts who can shape the future of criminology policy (Research.com, July 2025).
Our MSc Criminological Research course will equip you with important research skills. You'll be able to inform the policies that underpin crime prevention and justice reform.
As you study this Criminological Research Masters you’ll learn:

• the strategies and methods used in criminological research;

• how to collect, analyse and report on different kinds of data, using software such as Strata and NVivo;

• the theory behind criminology research;

• how the research you conduct can shape criminology policies;

• to shape your dissertation study on a criminological research topic of your choice.

Learn from the experts
You’ll benefit from our membership to the Scottish Centre for Crime and Criminal Justice Research (SCCJR). This multi-university group has links to policymakers, experts and criminology professionals. The work of this influential group feeds directly into what you’ll be learning on the MSc Criminological Research. You can also attend regular events scheduled by the SCCJR.
A reputation for excellent research
Stirling is one of the best places to study Criminology. We rank 1st in Scotland and top 15 in the UK for Criminology (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025). Our research in Social Work and Social Policy is ranked in the top 25 in the UK. 100% of our research environment is classed as world-leading or internationally excellent (REF 2021).
The research skills you gain on the course will not only prepare you for career opportunities in criminological research, but a wide range of other researcher roles. The course also meets the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) guidelines for undertaking a PhD in the social sciences.

You'll be assessed via a combination of modes including essays, book reviews, research proposals, presentations, critical review essays, open-book class tests, and the research dissertation.