Apply using the Applicant Portal
The Apply Now button on the right will take you to the Applicant Portal. There, you can create and submit your application and supporting documents, and you can also request your references.
An application is only complete when:
- you have submitted your application and supporting documents via the Applicant Portal
- you have paid the application fee if applicable. For further information on application fees, and which courses require an application fee, see here.
- your referees have provided their references.
Selection Process
Applications are considered as they are received, and offers are made throughout the application period. It is strongly recommended that you submit your completed application (including two academic references) in good time, as there are only a limited number of spaces on the course.
Applicants for University and departmental funding need to ensure that their applications are submitted in full by the relevant deadlines and that they clearly explain how they meet the funder's specific selection criteria.
Applicants will be notified as soon as their application has been evaluated if it has been accepted, rejected, or put on hold. Applications put on hold will be assessed after the application deadline as a gathered field in April. We aim to have all decisions made by the end of May.
Things You'll Need
You should start preparing the things that you'll need when you apply. These will be mandatory, unless specifically flagged as optional.
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Two referees willing to give you a reference
Either academic or professional – please see our References guidance for more information about which type you need. Your referees will need to have submitted their reference by the course deadline. - Transcript
- CV/resume
- Evidence of competence in English
If required - please see our Competence in English guidance for more information. - Core - Statement of Interest (7500 characters) (mandatory)
Your statement of interest should: 1) Capture more broadly why are you interested in Criminology as a subject. What are the criminological themes that attract you and why? 2) Outline some of your reasons for studying Criminology. You should mention particular academic interests you may have in the field of criminology and how you see these fitting in with your medium- and long-term plans. - Core - Sample of Work (1) (document upload) (mandatory)
Please upload one sample of your academic writing. This should be between 1,500 - 5,000 words long. Applicants can submit either an essay or piece of coursework from a previous degree, or a chapter from a dissertation. The sample of written work is more about showing your academic abilities and style of writing, so it doesn't need to be on a Criminological subject or directly related to Criminology. Many applicants don't come from a criminological background, and most tend to submit a piece of coursework from their current or previous degree.
Gates Cambridge Scholarships
If you wish to be considered for a Gates Cambridge Scholarship you will also need to provide the following:
See Gates Cambridge for more information.
How to Find a Supervisor
Supervisors will be allocated to students during the first few weeks of the first term.