MA Serious and Violent Crime

Why study this course?

• Fully online, allowing study from anywhere worldwide.

• Tailored A-PASS pathway to support academic skills for all backgrounds.

• Practical, career-focused learning through case studies, reports, and strategic exercises.

• Access to expert guest lectures from leading practitioners in criminology and criminal justice.

• Designed to prepare graduates for leadership and senior roles in criminal justice and related sectors.

Entry requirements

Academic Route

Minimum Age: 18 years

Applicants must provide evidence of their highest academic qualification, which may include:

• Level 3 Qualifications (A Levels, NVQ Level 3, Diploma, Certificate, or Access to Higher Education Diploma)
• International Baccalaureate
• High School Level Qualifications
• Level 2 Qualifications or equivalent (for example, GCSEs, NVQ Level 2, Diploma, or Certificate)

Work Route

Minimum Age: 21 years

Applicants who do not meet formal academic entry criteria may apply through the Work Route. This route recognises relevant professional experience in the field, or related industries as an alternative pathway into higher education. Some exceptions may apply for applicants with professional experience in other fields. This entry route ensures that motivated and experienced candidates can progress academically and professionally.

English Language Proficiency

If English is not the first language, applicants must complete an approved free English language test that assesses reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Equivalent qualifications may also be accepted.

Interview

All applicants are required to attend an interview with a member of the admissions team as part of the selection process.

Assessments

The course utilises a blend of assessments to ensure you have mastered key concepts, including:

• Professional reports and strategic briefing documents

• Business pitches and scenario-based exercises

• Dissertation / Independent research project

• Reflective practice and professional resilience tasks

Modules

Study & Career Progression

Graduates of the MA Serious and Violent Crime are prepared for advanced roles in criminal justice and related sectors, including:

• Police and security services (NCA, GCHQ, MI5, Border Force, Interpol)

• Prison and probation management

• Victim advocacy and offender management

• Non-governmental organisations (e.g., IJM, CPG, HRW)

• Academia and civil service

• Policy, research, and consultancy roles within the criminal justice sector

This programme equips students with global, practice-driven skills applicable across diverse professional contexts.

Student Fee's & Finance

The Tuition Fee of the course may vary depending on the institution you wish to study at, as well as your status in the UK. The course is available for UK/EU & International Students and eligible for Student Loans Company (SLC) funding to help cover the cost of your tuition fees and other expenses.

If you are an UK/EU citizen or living in the UK on an Indefinite stay, apart from the tuition fees, you could also receive support from the government via Student Loans Company to cover some living costs while studying.

• Tuition fee loans cover the full cost of your course and are paid directly to the course provider.
• Maintenance Loan pays for day-to-day living expenses like rent, bills, food and books. Unlike the fees loan, it's paid directly to your student bank account once a term and you can spend it on anything you like.
• Student Finance has to be paid back, however, you only make Student Loan repayments once you've left your course AND are earning enough. Repayments vary with your salary, and stop altogether if your income drops too low.
• Students can also apply for other types of special support grants, such as childcare grants or Disabled Students' Allowance if eligible.
• Moreover, almost all universities offer a selection of student bursaries. These are cash gifts you usually don't have to repay.