MPhil in Criminology

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

The MPhil provides a foundational education in prominent criminological theories, research methods, and areas of criminological knowledge.

Compulsory modules on Criminological Theories and Research Methods familiarise students with historical and contemporary criminological thinking and research. 

Each year, a variety of optional seminars covering a wide range of criminological topics are offered. What is on offer varies by year, but in recent years, it has included topics such as Policing, the Sociology of Prison Life, Victims and Injustice, Punishment and Mercy, Socio-critical Perspectives on Criminal Justice, History of Violence, Global Perspectives on Violence, People, Places and Crime, Organised Crime, and Neurocriminology.

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 should acquire:

• an understanding of core criminological and criminal justice theories
• a critical awareness of current problems and debates within the field
• 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 theoretical knowledge creatively and independently to guide their work
• skills in communicating criminological knowledge to specialist and non-specialist audiences

Research Methods

Students should 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 requires strong performance on the MPhil programme, a suitable research topic and proposal, and an available supervisor.

It also 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 of Criminology website provides further information on the PhD course  and a list of potential supervisors.

Open Days

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options:

• Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars - these Spring events provide practical information about applying for postgraduate study.

• Postgraduate Virtual Open Days - taking place in November each year, the Open Days focus on subject and course information.

For more information about upcoming events visit our events pages.