Criminal Investigation – (M.Sc.)

why choose this course?

* What sets this course apart is the unique approach to studying criminal investigations from initial information gathering through to prosecution. You will concentrate on investigative practices from beginning to end.
* Delivered largely by former investigation professionals, the highly vocational focus compares contemporary international approaches.
* Modules reflect the PIP national occupational standards in investigation.
* You will address the changing nature of law enforcement and the civilianisation of investigation.
* It will help you in your investigative career whatever sector you choose to focus on.
* It builds on our successful 'hands on' approach to criminology at undergraduate level.
* Study full or part time, so you can combine your work with study.
Professionalisation in policing is the one commonly agreed target by all police forces and has been a focus for agencies such as the Serious and Organised Crime Agency.

Increased professionalism in investigation procedures is recognised in the sector at all levels as crucial to personal and organisational effectiveness, reflective of society's increased expectations of professionally conducted investigations.

The MSc Criminal Investigation both complements and enhances the professional sectors initiatives, such as the Professionalising Investigation Programme (PIP), that is jointly sponsored by the Association of Chief Police Officers and the National Police Improvement Agency. Uniquely, you will be studying criminal investigations from beginning to end, from inital information gathering through to prosecution.

Not simply focused on the police, you will also examine other sectors requiring professional investigation, from corporate and financial investigations through to social and welfare services. By building upon this knowledge and the skills that are required of professionals, the MSc develops the theoretical and conceptual principles that underpin professional practice.

The course is taught largely by former investigation professionals and all modules utilise our close research and professional links with policing and law enforcement. The focus is on the internationalisation of crime and the impact of technology.

At the Postgraduate Certificate stage you will concentrate on investigative practices from beginning to end. The focus is on the practical, underpinned by the ethical and critical context of academic investigation. You'll cover how to obtain information from a wide range of sources and manage intelligence. You will be able to conduct serious and complex investigations and interview witnesses, victims and suspects in relation to these investigations. This includes assessing their fitness for interview, using the appropriate interviewing techniques for the situation, and being able to critically analyse and evaluate the interview.

At the Postgraduate Diploma stage you will focus on developing the skills to undertake original research and develop alongside this an appreciation of the social, moral and diversity considerations which should underpin both practice and research. You will become confident in handling advanced methodological and theoretical models in criminal investigation.

The Masters stage is an Independent Study. This provides you with an opportunity to utilise and enhance the knowledge and intellectual skills gained during the programme, by means of an extensive investigation of a significant topic within the context of criminal investigation.