The MPhil provides a foundational education in prominent criminological theories; research methods; and areas of criminological knowledge.
The primary aims of the MPhil programme are:
To offer an up-to-date and high-quality degree course, introducing students to some of the most important theory, methods and research in criminology
To offer a sound academic foundation to those who aspire to undertake a PhD or a career in teaching and research in criminology or related fields
To provide a sound foundation of knowledge and methodological skills to those who wish to work in a wide range of criminal justice agencies, the legal profession, or other professional or voluntary organisations.
Compulsory modules on Criminological Theories, Criminological Research Methods and Introduction to Quantitative Analysis familiarise students with historical and contemporary criminological thinking and research methods.
Students will take two optional modules which can either both be selected from one of three strands to allow a focus on a specific area of criminology, or can be selected from more than one of the strands to allow a broader focus. In both cases, the qualification will be an MPhil in Criminology. The three strands are:
1. Crime: Causes, Patterns, and Harms
The options available will vary each year but may include: Global Perspectives on Violence; People, Places and the Explanation of Crime; Organised Forms of Crime; and Victims and Injustice.
2. Criminal Justice: Ethics, Players, and Institutions
The options available will vary each year but may include: Policing; Punishment and Mercy; Victims and Injustice; Socio-Critical Perspectives on Criminal Justice: Minority Matters; and Sociology of Prison Life.
3. Crime Policy: Evidence, Innovation, and Crime Reduction
The options available will vary each year but may include: Global Perspectives on Violence; Policing; and Victims and Injustice
The MPhil in Criminology also includes practical training in advanced criminological research methods, provided in-house and through Cambridge Research Methods (CaRM). In addition to the criminological research methods course, all students will have to take at least two CaRM modules. These can be chosen by the students from all courses offered by the Cambridge Research Methods (CaRM) and by the Institute.
Learning outcomes
Core Knowledge
Students will acquire:
An understanding of core criminological and criminal justice theories and a critical awareness of current problems and debates within the field.
The opportunity to gain specialist knowledge in a thematic area of criminology.
Skills to critically evaluate theoretical and empirical literature relevant to criminological and criminal justice research.
The ability to synthesise and apply criminological knowledge in new contexts or to new issues.
The ability to use theory creatively and independently to guide their work.
Skills in communicating criminological knowledge to specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Research Methods
Students will acquire:
A comprehensive understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methods used in criminology.
The ability to use acquired knowledge to propose new hypotheses and identify and address research problems.
The ability to critically assess research designs.
The ability to apply research competencies to practical issues.
The ability to independently acquire and interpret additional knowledge relating to research an understanding of the quality of work required to satisfy peer review.
Continuing
Continuation to the PhD degree course involves a separate application process, undertaken during the MPhil year. Prospective PhD students are encouraged to discuss their plans with their MPhil supervisor as early as possible during the MPhil year. The Institute's MPhil course provides excellent preparation for doctoral study, and many of our MPhil students choose to stay at Cambridge to pursue a Cambridge PhD.
Continuation from the MPhil course is subject to:
A MPhil student achieving at least 74 overall.
A MPhil student deciding on a suitable research topic and proposal; and finding an available supervisor.
Open Days
The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer a variety events to help you explore your options.
Institute Postgraduate Open Day
Visit us at the Institute of Criminology in early November. Please register your interest here: Institute of Criminology Open Day November 2026 - Register your interest – Fill in form
Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars
Practical, step-by-step information about preparing a strong application for postgraduate study. Find out more on the Discover Cambridge webpage.
Virtual Postgraduate Open Days
The November Open Days focus on subject and course information. Webinar recordings are available until May.
Events for international students
Join the Postraduate Study team for Q&A webinars, funding webinars or get in touch with the regional managers. Find out more about events for international students.
For more information about all upcoming events visit our events pages.