Curious about studying MSc Criminology and Criminal Investigationsat Cardiff Metropolitan University? We've gathered all the key details—entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Hear from real students by checking out reviews, or take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
MSc - Master of Science
Cyncoed Campus
Full Time
Sep 2027
1 Year
The MSc Criminology & Criminal Investigations at Cardiff Met is an exciting degree that provides a detailed and critical understanding of key and contemporary issues within the study of crime and criminal justice. Criminology is an empirical subject that draws upon a range of methodological approaches, theoretical frameworks, and diverse perspectives both nationally and internationally. Criminal investigation is a fascinating area of study where you will explore case studies, develop key investigative competences, and gain experience in putting your skills into practice. Throughout the postgraduate taught course, you will study a range of topics which include contemporary and classical criminological theories, criminal justice systems, international crime, and green criminology. You will have the opportunity to conduct your own research project on a topic of your choice, where you will be supported by an experienced supervisor. Additionally, there will be a significant focus upon criminal investigations where you will explore how to investigate violent and serious crimes such as homicide and serious sexual offences. You will also study investigative interviewing which draws upon the practical processes of conducting a suspect interview and the psychology behind this. This Master’s degree in Criminology & Criminal Investigations will develop key and essential employability skills including presenting to an audience, critical thinking, reflective practice, and practical based skills such as interviewing, conducting investigations, and carrying out research. In addition to these attributes, you will build investigative skills in our gripping and challenging scenario-based role plays that are relevant to the criminal justice sector and can be applied in the workplace.
This module aims to introduce students to crime and criminology and will serve as a refresher for students who have previously studied criminology. In particular, you will study criminological theory and interesting topics including green criminology and penology. You will also explore emerging trends and issues in the criminology field.
This module will explore international and transnational crimes, such as war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, and the crime of aggression. Other critical issues that will be discussed include human rights and the criminal justice system, transnational crime such as organised crime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, drug production, and blue and green crime.
This module will advance students’ knowledge of important aspects of criminological research, using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The module will provide students with a clear understanding of the characteristics of scientifically rigorous and ethical research and advance students’ ability to design and construct criminological research in preparation for the dissertation.
This module aims to study vulnerabilities such as homelessness, drug and alcohol misuse; poverty; protected characteristics; as well as Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) and other factors that contribute to the vulnerabilities of both criminals and victims. The module will also explore the journey of vulnerable witnesses in the criminal justice system from initial report to court.
This module explores the various stages of a major crime investigation for homicide and other violent and serious crimes. The module will cover the various aspects of an investigation including forensic science, digital techniques, and psychological approaches. Students will investigate the effectiveness of different methods of investigation.
This module explores the theory and application of investigative interviewing of suspects in England and Wales, and the application of psychology on this. The module will also draw upon investigative interviewing techniques used around the world and how these may compare.
This module provides students with the opportunity to conduct their own research project into a topic of their choice, with the support of a dissertation supervisor. Students will develop their knowledge in a particular area of interest and develop greater independence in their approach to research whilst following stringent ethical guidelines.
4.3Cardiff Metropolitan University offers a wide range of full-time and part-time taught postgraduate, research and profess...
