Policing and Criminal Investigation (Top-up)

Dissertation In Policing And Investigation

Want an opportunity to explore n investigation or policing topic of your choosing in depth? Why not link the topic to the field you wish to pursue to gather more expertise for employment or choose the topic that has intrigued you most throughout your degree. This module will allow you to do just that! It provides you with the opportunity to apply advanced research skills, critically engage with academic and professional literature, and produce a substantial piece of work that demonstrates originality, analytical depth, and practical relevance all on a topic that you are passionate about.

Module code: POLI60001

Complex Investigations

Are you interested in learning how to investigate crime, bringing the most serious offenders to justice? Do you want to work in as an investigator in one of the many agencies that are responsible for this. Working with partners to stop or prevent harm in some of the most significant criminality the UK is experiencing? In this module you will develop an in depth understanding of how complex crime is defined and investigated in a variety of agency roles.You will develop knowledge of relevant legislation, professional practice and how it ensures responsibilities between statutory agencies are delivered to achieve this. You will also develop an understanding of broader UK and international agencies and how they support UK law enforcement and investigations, examining why cases go wrong, why and how they are reviewed and the challenges faced by processionals. We will draw on real life problems and scenarios to apply your learning so that you will be equipped in future employment, to understand the nature of complex investigations.

Module code: CRIM60019

Extreme Offenders

Have you got an interest in understanding extreme offending? This module examines the characteristics and motivations of serial, spree and terrorist offenders using criminological theory. Alongside this, you will explore professional practice related to national security, policing, and intelligence structures that manage such threats. You will also assess the impact of extreme offending on victims and communities, as well as how we receive information in the public about extreme offending.

Module code: POLI60002

Critiquing Contemporary Investigations

Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes of high-profile investigations? This module takes you inside the world of contemporary investigative practices, challenging you to think critically about how cases are handled in today’s criminal justice system. You’ll explore real-world examples of major investigations, examining the methods used, the ethical dilemmas faced, and the impact of media, technology, and globalisation on investigative strategies. From digital forensics to cross-border crime, you’ll learn to question not just what was done, but why—and whether it was effective, fair, and just. Learning where cases in the past have gone wrong and how lessons learned have shaped contemporary practice supports you in developing your own investigative practice ready for employment.

Module code: CRIM60020

Public Protection And Safeguarding

Have you ever wondered why cases of failing to safeguard children and vulnerable adults occur? Do you want to work in a protective environment and learn the skills necessary to support people and protect them from harm? In this module you will develop an in depth understanding of how partners work together to try and safeguard our most vulnerable members of society. You will develop knowledge of relevant legislation and how it ensures responsibilities between statutory agencies are delivered to achieve this. You will also develop an understanding of why cases go wrong and the challenges faced by processionals. We will draw on real life problems and scenarios to apply your learning in a realistic way so that you will be equipped in future employment, to understand the multi-faceted and complex nature of these investigations.

Module code: POLI60003

Case File To Court

Take your investigative skills to the next level with this comprehensive module designed for aspiring professionals in criminal justice and the wider investigative community. Case File to Court immerses you in the full investigative process, preparing you for real-world challenges from the moment a crime occurs to the final courtroom testimony. Making the most of our state of the art simulation facility, you’ll feel like you’re at a crime scene in somebody’s flat and giving evidence in a real court room. This hands-on, practice-driven course bridges theory and application, equipping you with the skills to manage investigations from start to finish. Whether you aim to work in policing, forensic science, or legal support roles, this module provides the knowledge and confidence to succeed.

Module code: CRIM60018

Work Experience For Criminal Justice

Do you want to apply your degree knowledge, skills and experience to a real-world setting? This module provides you with the opportunity to gain practical and real-life experience in a relevant work setting. The experience can be gained in a range of private, public and third sector organisations and may be paid or voluntary work. You may wish to utilise existing part time or voluntary roles, as a basis for your work experience placement. The module emphasises the importance of reflective practice, allowing you to critically evaluate your experiences, identify areas for personal and professional growth, and enhance your readiness for a career in criminal or social justice.

Module code: CRIM60017

Crime In Context

Module code: LAWS31320

Academic Skills

What are the core differences between an essay and other types of academic writing? Why is important to make this distinction? How do I improve my own writing skills? In this module, we will be answering all of these questions and more. Law and its application across the justice sector is intrinsically connected to language.. We will be considering how language is adapted to suit a variety of audiences, whether that is writing an academic essay, or writing a formal letter.We will be examining the core features of legal English and its use across the justice sector, which will form the foundations for your degree and future career.

Module code: LAWS31318

Introduction To Critical Thinking And Argument

Module code: LAWS31322

Sociology Of Crime

This module is designed to provide students with an introduction to the sociological causes of crime and criminal behaviour. In this module we will explore the role media has to play in crime, moral panic, and theories of crime. We will also explore and critically analyse different crime prevention policies, including situational, environmental and community approaches to crime prevention. Case studies will be used throughout the module to ensure application of theory to contemporary crime challenges.

Module code: LAWS31316

Theories Of Criminality And An Introduction From Crime Scene To Courtroom

Module code: LAWS31324

Road Crime And Investigation

Although Great Britain has some of the safest roads globally, thousands are killed and hundreds of thousands are injured every year. Learn about some of the key factors influencing this, and how these incidents are investigated. This module will introduce you to road crime, traffic offending, and collision investigation. You will get to consider legal frameworks, police powers and the role of different agencies in responding to, investigating, and improving the harm caused by road crime.

Module code: CRIM40006

Investigative Curiosity And Mindset

Ever wondered what happens in those critical first moments after an incident is reported? This module puts you in the shoes of the first investigator on scene and gives you the practical tools to make decisions that can shape an entire investigation. If you’re aiming for a career in policing, criminal investigation, or intelligence analysis, this is where your journey begins. These are the core skills employers look for in policing, criminal justice, and investigative roles. You’ll gain hands-on experience in decision-making, evidence handling, and intelligence-led strategies—skills that translate directly into operational readiness and career progression. Think like an investigator and act with confidence in real-world scenarios, apply structured strategies to uncover the truth and secure justice and use technology and intelligence to stay ahead in fast-moving investigations.

Module code: CRIM40003

Introduction To Criminal Theory

Ever wondered why crime happens and how it could be prevented or how the criminal justice system works? This module will introduce you to the criminal justice system and key concepts and theories in criminology to help you answer these questions. It will also equip you with some practical tools for tackling crime based and community problems. We will draw on real life problems and scenarios to apply your learning in a realistic way so that when you face similar issues in your future employment, you’ll have an array of knowledge and tools in your arsenal to deal with them.

Module code: CRIM40002

Academic, Professional And Employability Skills

How will you succeed at university? This module supports students in developing the academic, professional, and personal skills required for successful study and future policing-related careers. You will build confidence in academic writing, research, communication, and reflection, while also developing employability skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and professional decision-making. Assessment is through a literature review and a reflective portfolio designed to support your transition into higher education and professional practice.

Module code: POLI40001

Missing Persons Investigation

Do you want to understand the reasons why people go missing, how the Police investigate them to try and find them and why so many cases are reported on by the media? In this module you will understand the how the Police respond and assess missing persons cases and what investigative practices are used to locate missing people. You will also develop an understanding of why cases go wrong and the link to homicide investigations. We will draw on real life problems and scenarios to apply your learning in a realistic way so that you will be equipped in future employment, to understand the multi-faceted and complex nature of these investigations.

Module code: CRIM40005

Research Methods

Do you know how to gather evidence to support your decision making? Policing today demands decisions backed by evidence. This module will allow you to discover the power of evidence-based policing through research. It gives you the knowledge and tools to be able to design and conduct your own research as well as analyse and interpret data to draw conclusions to support or refute the existing evidence base.

Module code: POLI50001

Practical Application Of The Law

n this module, you will develop the legal knowledge and professional skills needed to apply criminal law in real policing and investigative scenarios. You will learn not only what the law says, but how it operates in frontline decision-making and within the criminal justice process.You will explore key offences including crimes of dishonesty under the Theft Act 1968, offences against the person under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, public order offences, criminal damage, and the procedures surrounding sexual offence investigations.A major focus of the module is the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE). You will examine the purpose and practical use of police powers—such as arrest, search, detention, and suspect treatment—and assess how compliance with PACE affects the admissibility of evidence in court.Through real and simulated case studies, you will apply the law to policing decisions, assess investigative outcomes, and build essential practical skills. These include interviewing suspects, witnesses, and vulnerable complainants, presenting evidence in court, and conducting searches. Role-play activities will help you produce professional documentation such as statements, exhibit logs (MG12), and disclosure schedules (MG6).

Module code: CRIM50003

Risk, Vulnerabilities And Justice

Risk and vulnerability present major issues for policing and the criminal justice system. In this module, you will learn about how policing responds to vulnerability, harm and exploitation, and how that links into the wider criminal justice system. You will also learn about the important role that ethics, professional standards, public trust, and legitimacy play in keeping our communities safe. You will have the opportunity to take part in a scenario and influence the outcome of it before reflecting on your knowledge, understanding, and skills of this pivotal area in the world of policing and criminal justice.

Module code: CRIM50004

Contemporary Policing

This module explores key contemporary issues facing policing in modern society. You will examine debates surrounding trust, legitimacy, fairness, and accountability, alongside the impact of political, social, and technological change on policing practice. Using real-world case studies, the module encourages critical analysis of current challenges and reforms shaping the future of policing.

Module code: CRIM50001

Contemporary Cyber Crime & Digital Investigations

How are cyber and digital crimes committed? What can an investigator do to detect and prevent these? In this module you will be given an exciting opportunity to develop a greater understanding and answer to these questions. The Cybercrime module will consider the ideas, concepts and law connected to cybercrime. The role of police and other agencies to investigate such crimes will be explored, as will the challenges of such investigations. The module will utilise real life case studies, practicals and simulations to allow you to apply theoretical knowledge and gain practical skills which are transferable to the workplace.

Module code: CRIM50002

Work Experience For Criminal Justice

Do you want to apply your degree knowledge, skills and experience to a real-world setting? This module provides you with the opportunity to gain practical and real-life experience in a relevant work setting. The experience can be gained in a range of private, public and third sector organisations and may be paid or voluntary work. You may wish to utilise existing part time or voluntary roles, as a basis for your work experience placement. The module emphasises the importance of reflective practice, allowing you to critically evaluate your experiences, identify areas for personal and professional growth, and enhance your readiness for a career in criminal or social justice.

Module code: CRIM53015

Public Protection And Safeguarding

Have you ever wondered why cases of failing to safeguard children and vulnerable adults occur? Do you want to work in a protective environment and learn the skills necessary to support people and protect them from harm? In this module you will develop an in depth understanding of how partners work together to try and safeguard our most vulnerable members of society. You will develop knowledge of relevant legislation and how it ensures responsibilities between statutory agencies are delivered to achieve this. You will also develop an understanding of why cases go wrong and the challenges faced by processionals. We will draw on real life problems and scenarios to apply your learning in a realistic way so that you will be equipped in future employment, to understand the multi-faceted and complex nature of these investigations.

Module code: POLI60003

Dissertation In Policing And Investigation

Want an opportunity to explore n investigation or policing topic of your choosing in depth? Why not link the topic to the field you wish to pursue to gather more expertise for employment or choose the topic that has intrigued you most throughout your degree. This module will allow you to do just that! It provides you with the opportunity to apply advanced research skills, critically engage with academic and professional literature, and produce a substantial piece of work that demonstrates originality, analytical depth, and practical relevance all on a topic that you are passionate about.

Module code: POLI60001

Extreme Offenders

Have you got an interest in understanding extreme offending? This module examines the characteristics and motivations of serial, spree and terrorist offenders using criminological theory. Alongside this, you will explore professional practice related to national security, policing, and intelligence structures that manage such threats. You will also assess the impact of extreme offending on victims and communities, as well as how we receive information in the public about extreme offending.

Module code: POLI60002

Critiquing Contemporary Investigations

Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes of high-profile investigations? This module takes you inside the world of contemporary investigative practices, challenging you to think critically about how cases are handled in today’s criminal justice system. You’ll explore real-world examples of major investigations, examining the methods used, the ethical dilemmas faced, and the impact of media, technology, and globalisation on investigative strategies. From digital forensics to cross-border crime, you’ll learn to question not just what was done, but why—and whether it was effective, fair, and just. Learning where cases in the past have gone wrong and how lessons learned have shaped contemporary practice supports you in developing your own investigative practice ready for employment.

Module code: CRIM60020

Case File To Court

Take your investigative skills to the next level with this comprehensive module designed for aspiring professionals in criminal justice and the wider investigative community. Case File to Court immerses you in the full investigative process, preparing you for real-world challenges from the moment a crime occurs to the final courtroom testimony. Making the most of our state of the art simulation facility, you’ll feel like you’re at a crime scene in somebody’s flat and giving evidence in a real court room. This hands-on, practice-driven course bridges theory and application, equipping you with the skills to manage investigations from start to finish. Whether you aim to work in policing, forensic science, or legal support roles, this module provides the knowledge and confidence to succeed.

Module code: CRIM60018

Complex Investigations

Are you interested in learning how to investigate crime, bringing the most serious offenders to justice? Do you want to work in as an investigator in one of the many agencies that are responsible for this. Working with partners to stop or prevent harm in some of the most significant criminality the UK is experiencing? In this module you will develop an in depth understanding of how complex crime is defined and investigated in a variety of agency roles.You will develop knowledge of relevant legislation, professional practice and how it ensures responsibilities between statutory agencies are delivered to achieve this. You will also develop an understanding of broader UK and international agencies and how they support UK law enforcement and investigations, examining why cases go wrong, why and how they are reviewed and the challenges faced by processionals. We will draw on real life problems and scenarios to apply your learning so that you will be equipped in future employment, to understand the nature of complex investigations.

Module code: CRIM60019

Introduction To Criminal Theory

Ever wondered why crime happens and how it could be prevented or how the criminal justice system works? This module will introduce you to the criminal justice system and key concepts and theories in criminology to help you answer these questions. It will also equip you with some practical tools for tackling crime based and community problems. We will draw on real life problems and scenarios to apply your learning in a realistic way so that when you face similar issues in your future employment, you’ll have an array of knowledge and tools in your arsenal to deal with them.

Module code: CRIM40002

Investigative Curiosity And Mindset

Ever wondered what happens in those critical first moments after an incident is reported? This module puts you in the shoes of the first investigator on scene and gives you the practical tools to make decisions that can shape an entire investigation. If you’re aiming for a career in policing, criminal investigation, or intelligence analysis, this is where your journey begins. These are the core skills employers look for in policing, criminal justice, and investigative roles. You’ll gain hands-on experience in decision-making, evidence handling, and intelligence-led strategies—skills that translate directly into operational readiness and career progression. Think like an investigator and act with confidence in real-world scenarios, apply structured strategies to uncover the truth and secure justice and use technology and intelligence to stay ahead in fast-moving investigations.

Module code: CRIM40003

Academic, Professional And Employability Skills

How will you succeed at university? This module supports students in developing the academic, professional, and personal skills required for successful study and future policing-related careers. You will build confidence in academic writing, research, communication, and reflection, while also developing employability skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and professional decision-making. Assessment is through a literature review and a reflective portfolio designed to support your transition into higher education and professional practice.

Module code: POLI40001

Missing Persons Investigation

Do you want to understand the reasons why people go missing, how the Police investigate them to try and find them and why so many cases are reported on by the media? In this module you will understand the how the Police respond and assess missing persons cases and what investigative practices are used to locate missing people. You will also develop an understanding of why cases go wrong and the link to homicide investigations. We will draw on real life problems and scenarios to apply your learning in a realistic way so that you will be equipped in future employment, to understand the multi-faceted and complex nature of these investigations.

Module code: CRIM40005

Road Crime And Investigation

Although Great Britain has some of the safest roads globally, thousands are killed and hundreds of thousands are injured every year. Learn about some of the key factors influencing this, and how these incidents are investigated. This module will introduce you to road crime, traffic offending, and collision investigation. You will get to consider legal frameworks, police powers and the role of different agencies in responding to, investigating, and improving the harm caused by road crime.

Module code: CRIM40006

Work Experience For Criminal Justice

Do you want to apply your degree knowledge, skills and experience to a real-world setting? This module provides you with the opportunity to gain practical and real-life experience in a relevant work setting. The experience can be gained in a range of private, public and third sector organisations and may be paid or voluntary work. You may wish to utilise existing part time or voluntary roles, as a basis for your work experience placement. The module emphasises the importance of reflective practice, allowing you to critically evaluate your experiences, identify areas for personal and professional growth, and enhance your readiness for a career in criminal or social justice.

Module code: CRIM53015

Contemporary Cyber Crime & Digital Investigations

How are cyber and digital crimes committed? What can an investigator do to detect and prevent these? In this module you will be given an exciting opportunity to develop a greater understanding and answer to these questions. The Cybercrime module will consider the ideas, concepts and law connected to cybercrime. The role of police and other agencies to investigate such crimes will be explored, as will the challenges of such investigations. The module will utilise real life case studies, practicals and simulations to allow you to apply theoretical knowledge and gain practical skills which are transferable to the workplace.

Module code: CRIM50002

Practical Application Of The Law

n this module, you will develop the legal knowledge and professional skills needed to apply criminal law in real policing and investigative scenarios. You will learn not only what the law says, but how it operates in frontline decision-making and within the criminal justice process.You will explore key offences including crimes of dishonesty under the Theft Act 1968, offences against the person under the Offences Against the Person Act 1861, public order offences, criminal damage, and the procedures surrounding sexual offence investigations.A major focus of the module is the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE). You will examine the purpose and practical use of police powers—such as arrest, search, detention, and suspect treatment—and assess how compliance with PACE affects the admissibility of evidence in court.Through real and simulated case studies, you will apply the law to policing decisions, assess investigative outcomes, and build essential practical skills. These include interviewing suspects, witnesses, and vulnerable complainants, presenting evidence in court, and conducting searches. Role-play activities will help you produce professional documentation such as statements, exhibit logs (MG12), and disclosure schedules (MG6).

Module code: CRIM50003

Research Methods

Do you know how to gather evidence to support your decision making? Policing today demands decisions backed by evidence. This module will allow you to discover the power of evidence-based policing through research. It gives you the knowledge and tools to be able to design and conduct your own research as well as analyse and interpret data to draw conclusions to support or refute the existing evidence base.

Module code: POLI50001

Contemporary Policing

This module explores key contemporary issues facing policing in modern society. You will examine debates surrounding trust, legitimacy, fairness, and accountability, alongside the impact of political, social, and technological change on policing practice. Using real-world case studies, the module encourages critical analysis of current challenges and reforms shaping the future of policing.

Module code: CRIM50001

Risk, Vulnerabilities And Justice

Risk and vulnerability present major issues for policing and the criminal justice system. In this module, you will learn about how policing responds to vulnerability, harm and exploitation, and how that links into the wider criminal justice system. You will also learn about the important role that ethics, professional standards, public trust, and legitimacy play in keeping our communities safe. You will have the opportunity to take part in a scenario and influence the outcome of it before reflecting on your knowledge, understanding, and skills of this pivotal area in the world of policing and criminal justice.

Module code: CRIM50004

Dtib Industrial Placement

Module code: PLAC00002

Extreme Offenders

Have you got an interest in understanding extreme offending? This module examines the characteristics and motivations of serial, spree and terrorist offenders using criminological theory. Alongside this, you will explore professional practice related to national security, policing, and intelligence structures that manage such threats. You will also assess the impact of extreme offending on victims and communities, as well as how we receive information in the public about extreme offending.

Module code: POLI60002

Complex Investigations

Are you interested in learning how to investigate crime, bringing the most serious offenders to justice? Do you want to work in as an investigator in one of the many agencies that are responsible for this. Working with partners to stop or prevent harm in some of the most significant criminality the UK is experiencing? In this module you will develop an in depth understanding of how complex crime is defined and investigated in a variety of agency roles.You will develop knowledge of relevant legislation, professional practice and how it ensures responsibilities between statutory agencies are delivered to achieve this. You will also develop an understanding of broader UK and international agencies and how they support UK law enforcement and investigations, examining why cases go wrong, why and how they are reviewed and the challenges faced by processionals. We will draw on real life problems and scenarios to apply your learning so that you will be equipped in future employment, to understand the nature of complex investigations.

Module code: CRIM60019

Public Protection And Safeguarding

Have you ever wondered why cases of failing to safeguard children and vulnerable adults occur? Do you want to work in a protective environment and learn the skills necessary to support people and protect them from harm? In this module you will develop an in depth understanding of how partners work together to try and safeguard our most vulnerable members of society. You will develop knowledge of relevant legislation and how it ensures responsibilities between statutory agencies are delivered to achieve this. You will also develop an understanding of why cases go wrong and the challenges faced by processionals. We will draw on real life problems and scenarios to apply your learning in a realistic way so that you will be equipped in future employment, to understand the multi-faceted and complex nature of these investigations.

Module code: POLI60003

Case File To Court

Take your investigative skills to the next level with this comprehensive module designed for aspiring professionals in criminal justice and the wider investigative community. Case File to Court immerses you in the full investigative process, preparing you for real-world challenges from the moment a crime occurs to the final courtroom testimony. Making the most of our state of the art simulation facility, you’ll feel like you’re at a crime scene in somebody’s flat and giving evidence in a real court room. This hands-on, practice-driven course bridges theory and application, equipping you with the skills to manage investigations from start to finish. Whether you aim to work in policing, forensic science, or legal support roles, this module provides the knowledge and confidence to succeed.

Module code: CRIM60018

Dissertation In Policing And Investigation

Want an opportunity to explore n investigation or policing topic of your choosing in depth? Why not link the topic to the field you wish to pursue to gather more expertise for employment or choose the topic that has intrigued you most throughout your degree. This module will allow you to do just that! It provides you with the opportunity to apply advanced research skills, critically engage with academic and professional literature, and produce a substantial piece of work that demonstrates originality, analytical depth, and practical relevance all on a topic that you are passionate about.

Module code: POLI60001

Critiquing Contemporary Investigations

Ever wondered what really happens behind the scenes of high-profile investigations? This module takes you inside the world of contemporary investigative practices, challenging you to think critically about how cases are handled in today’s criminal justice system. You’ll explore real-world examples of major investigations, examining the methods used, the ethical dilemmas faced, and the impact of media, technology, and globalisation on investigative strategies. From digital forensics to cross-border crime, you’ll learn to question not just what was done, but why—and whether it was effective, fair, and just. Learning where cases in the past have gone wrong and how lessons learned have shaped contemporary practice supports you in developing your own investigative practice ready for employment.

Module code: CRIM60020