Our programmes
Our postgraduate programmes are a reflection of our 120 year heritage and designed to equip you with the skills and expertise needed to make an impact—today and in the future. Are you ready put theory into practice?
We offer four postgraduate programmes, each designed to help you carve your own path. Our new MA in Criminology and Criminal Justice allows you to dive into critical debates on crime, justice, inequality and social divisions. Tailor your journey through flexible modules and real-world placements, all while building skills for a successful career in policy and criminal justice. Alternatively, our MA in Social Research Methods and MRes programmes in Criminological Research and Social Research offer you intensive research training and the tools to examine how societies, cultures and institutions work—and how they change. Our MA in Social Research Methods is also Economic and Social Research Council 1 + 3 recognised, opening the door to doctoral studies.
Leading experts
As a member of the prestigious Russell Group, our staff are leaders in their fields, producing world-class research that makes an impact. Staff within the department have a long history of making change through their research, working closely with different sectors to inform policy and practice, including the Howard League for Penal Reform, Office of the Commissioner for Victims, National Policing Lead for Victims and Witnesses, Citizens Advice, Ministry of Justice-funded Witness Service, Victim Support, National police forces, Law Commissions and many more. Joining us means that you are studying alongside staff who are contributing to some of the most interesting contemporary forms of research and are international leaders in social science.
Staff research feeds into teaching at postgraduate level, keeping students informed of the latest developments. With many of our staff members coming from all around the world, our programmes provide firsthand global perspectives on key issues. The expertise within the department is wide ranging. No matter your area of interest, support and expertise will always be on hand and we always do our best to match your research interests with staff specialisms.
Real-world experience
The Department of Sociology, Social Policy, and Criminology is home to Interchange—a charity that connects Voluntary Community Organisations (VCOs) with students in higher education. We offer Interchange modules in both of our MA programmes, providing you with the opportunity to gain unique, work-based learning experience.
Whether you choose to undertake your final dissertation in partnership with a VCO or participate in our placement module, you will gain firsthand experience with the sector and a deeper understanding of the activities carried out by these organisations. You will also explore their value in addressing issues of crime and justice in society, as well as the political and economic contexts in which they operate.
These modules offer valuable experience and will provide a significant boost to your CV!
A supportive environment
We aim to create an environment that supports your academic achievements while also encouraging you to enhance your employment prospects through extra-curricular activities. This includes SLSJ Extra, our series of talks and workshops featuring members from the legal, criminal, and voluntary sectors, as well as other leading professionals and reform advocates from the UK and beyond. By the end of the course, you'll feel empowered, engaged and employable.
We are the cornerstone of engage@Liverpool, providing you with access to masterclasses, workshops and lectures on research methods, delivered by international experts and Methods North West. This resource is made possible by our international reputation for innovative methods, critical, participatory, investigative, creative, visual and digital approaches - establishing Liverpool University as one of only eight UK partners UK National Centre for Research Methods .
Career support
Employability is at the heart of our postgraduate programmes. We’ll help you graduate with the skills you need for success in a variety of industries, including:
- Government and the civil service
- Criminal justice institutions
- Third sector organisations (NGOs and charities)
- social work and welfare
- Research and policymaking
- Journalism
- Further academic training, such as doctoral study.
Our programmes are designed to enhance your academic profile and equip you with highly marketable skills, whatever career path you choose.
Social science graduates are highly sought after due to the transferable skills they develop during their studies. These include:
- Analytical and critical thinking
- Research expertise
- Strong communication skills in reading, writing, and speaking
- Interpretive ability
- Broad knowledge base spanning historical and contemporary topics
- Creative problem-solving
- Independent perspective-taking
- Adaptability
The University also hosts career fairs, giving you the opportunity to connect with top employers. In addition, valuable career advice and support are provided by academic staff and our dedicated Employability Team.
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