Criminology Beyond the Classroom

A new term means first year Criminology students have settled well with new friendship groups and are learning about the study of crime and criminal justice agencies within taught sessions. Second year students are developing their criminological imagination through a range of new topics, this includes the convergence of mental health and criminal justice policy and state crime. Third year students who opted for the dissertation module have been working with lecturers to identify their topic with lecturers.

In induction week, staff members invited first year students to critically examine the public spaces they frequent. Therefore, an activity included a walking tour of Chester City Centre. This provided an opportunity for students to learn beyond the classroom and meet peers within a new environment. Upon leaving the University’s Exton Park site, we discussed what strategies can make us feel safe within a particular area and how this can change over time. We looked at how spaces can be designed to create a sense of safety and the distinction between public and private policing. This included bright lighting and CCTV. This led to a debate about the use of CCTV and whether the frequent use of surveillance within all the public spaces we inhabit is justified. When we reflected upon how often you are likely to be captured on CCTV in one day and by different groups: neighbours, public transport, shops etc.

Within Chester, lecturers spoke with students about a range of topics. We looked at how churches can be spaces of heritage crime and also be used for the community as food banks. This links to issues of poverty and research currently being conducted by our staff members in this area. The Storyhouse was a stop point; as a community hub where we attend talks and events throughout the course. We ended the tour within the city centre; reflecting upon the night-time economy. The walk allowed students to build a sense of Chester as a city, but also reflect upon the community and public criminology. It presented information about careers and volunteer roles within the community relevant to social issues, criminal justice and wider agencies.

Criminology careers are a key focus throughout the course. In level 4 where students reflect on their skills and interests to understand how they might be applicable within the workplace – this forms part of a reflective assessment task. In the second year, students learn how to communicate the skills obtained through their studies in a career capacity and undertake a Work Based Learning placement. Within their final year, students explore public criminology and contemporary and emerging issues and write for both public and academic audiences within assessments.

We’ve also recently hosted a one-day employability event for graduate jobs and summer placements relating to public services. Our dedicated University careers advisors and government recruiters engaged directly with students about future planning for careers and opportunities locally and nationally. Careers consultants can meet with students one-to-one, supporting them in identifying job roles and preparing CVs and for interviews.   

If you have any queries about the course, or criminology beyond the classroom, please do not hesitate to contact Dr Jayne Price, co-programme leader Jayne Price.