London, United Kingdom

Understanding and Preventing Crime

This module introduces students to the study of crime and its prevention. It begins by considering the challenges with how we define and measure crime, and the implications these have for interpreting key crime trends. Special attention will be devoted to how crime patterns manifest in space and time and how they can be analysed. Next, the key sociological, psychological and ecological theories relating to criminal behaviour are critically examined. Lastly, the formal structures and machinery in place to respond to crime and security problems are outlined. This includes the role and functions of the police, courts, and corrections as the chief components of the criminal justice system, as well as the role of government in setting crime policy. Students will be encouraged to critically assess the strength of different theoretical approaches throughout the module.

Course leader

Dr Kartikeya Tripathi

Target group

This is a level one module (equivalent to first year undergraduate). Students must have completed one year of undergraduate study. No prior subject knowledge is required for this module, but students are expected to have a keen interest in the area.

Course aim

Upon successful completion of this module, students will:

Have a grasp of major crime trends
Be able to think critically about current methods of crime measurement and crime-related theory
Understand the key theories that relate to criminal behaviour and how these can be used to produce effective crime control policies
Be able to demonstrate familiarity with the British Criminal Justice System
Appreciate the need for evidence-informed responses to crime and the role of multidisciplinary approaches.

Credits info

7.5 EC
7.5 ECTS / 4 US / 15 UCL

Fee info

GBP 2585: Students joining us for six weeks (two modules) will receive a tuition fee discount.
GBP : UCL offers accommodation in a vibrant area in the heart of London.