Single Module Deconstructing the Criminal Justice Process (30 credits)
Part-time
One semester
September 2026
In a nutshell
Please note that this module is currently undergoing updates to its content, structure, or assessment methods. While we aim to keep all information accurate and up to date, some details may be subject to change. Finalised module specifications will be confirmed prior to the start of the academic term.)
The UK criminal justice process (CJP) is a complex network of agencies and organisations that seek to enact laws, protect the public and administer justice. In the year ending June 2023, official statistics showed that in England and Wales 1.42 million individuals were dealt with by the CJ, involving engagement with police, courts, prisons, and probation – as well as a range of other social welfare agencies. This module will support students to understand the origins of criminal justice, how the justice system works across the UK, how agencies collectively form a framework and how processes engage with offenders, victims, and professionals.
Through this module students to engage with contemporary criminological scholarship as well as critically consider challenges to criminal justice such as institutional racism, miscarriages of justice, and reoffending, along with new developments in the digitisation of justice processes and in restorative justice. On completion of this module students will gain an advanced knowledge and critical understanding of criminal justice practice and processes.
This is for you if you
Want to work in organisations that administer, support and underpin the criminal justice system (in government, public, third and private sector organisations).
Are currently in an officer, policy or service delivery/advocacy role but are looking to step up your career by developing expertise and leadership in applied research with a criminal justice focus.
Are passionate about criminology and understanding the experiences of people in the criminal justice system and want to explore further postgraduate study and/or research opportunities.
All about the course
This module will:
- Provide an advanced examination and assessment of the origins and theoretical foundations of contemporary criminal justice institutions, processes, and policies.
- Explore, in depth, key models of criminal justice processes in the UK and consider alternative approaches from other contexts.
- Critically consider the socio-political and economic factors that shape developments in the criminal justice system.
- Identify and deconstruct contemporary trends and dilemmas in the criminal justice process, relating to streamlining decision making, risk management, multi-agency working and public-private partnership.
- Enable an in-depth criminological analysis of the connections and tensions between various parts of the criminal justice process, drawing on recent research and interdisciplinary critique (such as law, criminology sociology, social policy, social work).
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
What about after uni?
This module will allow you to develop a postgraduate level understanding of criminal justice processes in the criminal justice system and essential policy-related writing and presentation skills. These will support you to work in a variety of public and non-profit/charity roles in relation to the criminal justice system. It will also support you to develop an understanding of the demands and approaches of applied postgraduate study focused on criminology and criminal justice.
Further Study
This is a core module for the MSc Criminal Justice: People & Processes. For more information, please contact the Programme Leader Dr Toni Wood.
What you need to know
Previous study or experience
Previous experience of undergraduate study in any subject or significant professional engagement with research activities.
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)
We positively welcome applications from students who may not meet the stated entry criteria but who can demonstrate their ability to successfully pursue a programme of study in higher education. Students who do not have the traditional entry requirements may be able to apply through the Salford Alternative Entry Scheme. Support in preparing for the written assessment is available from the University.
How much?
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Part-time | 2025/26 |
£1,530 |
| Part-time | 2026/27 | £1,570 |
Additional costs
You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.