Criminal Justice

Are you naturally curious about why people commit crime and what can motivate them to cause serious harm? Would you like to explore these issues in real criminal justice settings working alongside professionals? These are just some of the experiences that are on offer during the BA Criminal Justice course. Our Criminal Justice System is underpinned by theories of retribution, punishment and deterrence but the impact of these on reducing crime deserves some critical thought. Criminal justice policies, practices and legislation have not been modernised or developed for decades, if not centuries, despite an abundance of research. Do you want to be part of a new era of criminal justice that can challenge the current ethos? If you want to make a difference and gain real experience working within this exciting field this degree course has been designed with you in mind.

The course material has been developed using the skills, knowledge and expertise of our multi-disciplinary team. The course will take you on a journey through the criminal justice system; the good, the bad and the ugly, exploring key areas such as the legal system, policing, sentencing, rehabilitation, prisons, forensic psychology and risk and harm. You will explore the intricacies and controversies of current practice, critically considering where improvements can be made.

Using a mix of classroom-based learning, skills practice, shadowing opportunities and voluntary placements with local criminal justice agencies this course will develop you into a confident and knowledgeable practitioner, ready for employment in many criminal justice-based fields. You will have the chance to apply your learning in the real world fully preparing you for your future criminal justice career.

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost**, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information
✱✱ eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information

Course Modules

STAGE 1:

• Skills for Criminal Justice Professionals (Compulsory)

• Forensic Investigation (Compulsory)

• Hate Crime and Extremism (Compulsory)

• Technology and Criminal Justice (Compulsory)

• Victims and Survivor Perspectives (Compulsory)

• Safeguarding and Vulnerability (Compulsory)

STAGE 2:

• Journey Through the Criminal Justice System (Compulsory)

• Offending Behaviours (Compulsory)

• Exploitation and Youth Offending (Compulsory)

• Evidence Based Practice and Research Methods (Compulsory)

• Penology: Just Desserts? (Compulsory)

• Offender Management: Working with Offenders (Compulsory)

STAGE 3:

• Risk Assessment and Risk Management (Compulsory)

• Leadership in Criminal Justice (Compulsory)

• Rehabilitation (Compulsory)

• Miscarriages of Justice (Compulsory)

• Criminal Justice Practice Placement (Compulsory)

Module information is quoted for 26/27 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly. 27/28 entry modules will be released in June 2027.