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University of Gloucestershire
Postgraduate taught

Criminology

PgCert

Course options

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Study type
Full-time Short
Course length
4 Months
Campus
Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham
UCAS Code
N/A

Course overview

Dive into the thrilling world of Criminology with our dynamic masters course. We will help you navigate the intricate landscapes of crime, deviance, and justice.

You will tackle global challenges like international security, alternative justice systems, domestic abuse, and the investigation of serious crimes. Drawing on the expertise of our passionate and research active staff, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of key theories and contemporary issues that shape our world today.

Real-world experience

We offer you an emphasis on real-world application as part of your studies. You will engage with pressing contemporary issues and have opportunities for collaborations with a range of organisations, including Gloucestershire Constabulary, Restorative Gloucestershire, and dedicated charities tackling critical topics like domestic abuse, sexual violence and victim support. This is your chance to make a tangible impact while honing your criminological skills.

Study style

You will study with us over 2 days – currently Tuesdays and Wednesdays, offering an immersive learning experience. We will support your learning in a vibrant environment filled with seminars, workshops, lectures, and independent projects. Assessment is varied and will test a range of skills, featuring essays, portfolios, poster presentations, and a final dissertation that lets you showcase your interests.

Beyond the classroom

You can embrace the full Criminology experience with our extensive range of extracurricular activities, such as joining our specialized research groups – the Sexual Violence Research Group and the Homicide Research Group, where you will work on real projects for external organizations. These opportunities not only enrich your learning but also pave the way for potential dissertation topics and career paths.

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Entry requirements

    • You should hold at least a 2.2 Bachelors Honours degree in a related subject.  We will also consider social sciences degrees such as psychology, sociology, international relations, security studies and politics

Course modules

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Fees and costs

You're viewing fees for the course option. Choose a different course option to see corresponding course fees.

Students usually support themselves through a postgraduate loan, private savings, family support or sponsorship from an employer. For advice and guidance on your funding options, contact the Money Advice team at [email protected] or call 01242 714535.

UoG graduates receive 15% off postgraduate tuition fees. Terms apply.

Start date Location Course code Fee (UK)
Total fee
Fee (international)
Total fee
Sep 2025 Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham £3,010 £5,980
Sep 2026 Francis Close Hall, Cheltenham TBC TBC

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UoG Career promise

At UoG we create a climate for bravery and growth. We instil confidence in all our students, so you can graduate career-ready and meet your ambitions.

96% of our graduates are in work or further study*, but if you’re not in a job 6 months after graduating we’ll guarantee you 6 months of free support, followed by the offer of a paid internship to kickstart your career – plus we’ll commit to lifetime career coaching. Eligibility conditions apply.

*Graduate Outcomes Survey published 2024 and based on 2021/22 leavers

Discover our promises

Careers

You’ll be able to work on live projects with partner organisations. We have links with police forces, the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner for Gloucestershire, Restorative Gloucestershire, community organisations active in crime prevention such as Gloucester City Safe, and local charities.

Students are encouraged to join one of our research groups – the Homicide Research Group, the Sexual Violence Research Group or the Prisons Research Group. They give students and staff the opportunity to work together, develop skills, create employability related contacts and experiences, create links with professionals and impact on current practices and policies.

Our graduates have secured diverse roles with the Police, Probation, and Prison Services, as well as within charities, government bodies, and private companies. With personalised guidance from tutors and a wealth of resources to expand your horizons, you’ll be equipped to make your mark in the field of criminology and criminal justice.

Join our Sexual Violence Research Group

We work on projects to improve sexual violence responses. We’ve delivered a report for a police force on learning from a detailed review of case files, and contributed expertise to a local authority initiative on sexual violence service provision for men and boys.

Student chatting to Helpzone adviser

Join our Homicide Research Group

We work with organisations and charities to produce research which can help reduce or prevent homicide. We’ve already produced a report for the Suzy Lamplugh Trust which has been influential in assessing risk in stalking cases. Currently, we’re working with AAFDA to produce a report for the Home Office which will look at family involvement in Domestic Homicide Reviews. We’re also working with the Police and Crime Commissioner in Sussex to produce a stalking response model.

Push your possible with a master's degree

Increase your pay potential, specialise in a subject you love, or pursue your passion and switch careers.

UoG alumni can benefit from a postgraduate scholarship discount of 15% off tuition fees.

Discover the benefits of studying a master’s degree.

Female student in lab coat looking at lab sample.

Trips and experiences

You’ll have the opportunity to join a residential field trip to explore a specialist theme such as community policing or restorative justice – recent destinations have included Belfast, Bosnia and Toronto.

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