Criminology and Criminal Justice

Male lawyer in court

Hello Everyone!

Welcome to the Criminology and Criminal Justice resources page.

Here you will find out exactly what our academics are looking for in their students, including skills they look out for, some of the topics they want you to know, recommended reading and useful places to boost your knowledge.

So without further ado let's get started!

Skills we are looking for

  • Passion for learning about Criminal justice
  • Independent learners
  • Good listeners
  • Critical thinkers
  • Effective debaters

students raising their hands in a mock court case

Topics to explore before you start

  • Familiarise yourself with the structure of the Criminal Justice System in the UK
  • The difference between a crime and deviance
  • Consider why individuals commit crimes
  • Investigate the societal impacts of crime
  • Investigate the different types of crime
students walking outside the law court building

Recommended reading to prepare for university

Criminology and Criminal Justice gallery



Programmes to know

  • Microsoft word
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
  • Microsoft Teams
  • Zoom

Websites our academics recommend

The Crown Prosecution Service website:

The CPS works in partnership with the police, courts, the Attorney General’s Office, the Home Office, the Ministry of Justice and other agencies throughout the criminal justice system (CJS).

The Law Commission website:

Research the work of the Law Commission. Is there a particular area of law which fascinates you?

The Law Society Gazette website:

Read articles and law reports from the Law Gazette. Is there anything that’s surprised/challenged/inspired you?

BBC - Law in Action podcasts:

Are there any issues that intrigue you? Is there anything that you’re surprised by? How do these podcasts challenge your current way of thinking? Do they confirm your interest in law? If so how?

Professional bodies to research

The Ministry of Justice:

The Ministry of Justice is a major government department, at the heart of the justice system in the UK. They work to protect and advance the principles of justice.

Her Majesty's Prison Service (HMPS):

They keep those sentenced to prison in custody, helping them lead law-abiding and useful lives, both while they are in prison and after they are released.

Her Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS):

They carry out sentences given by the courts, in custody and the community, and rehabilitate people in their care through education and employment.

The Supreme Court:

They are the final court of appeal in the UK for civil cases, and for criminal cases from England, Wales and Northern Ireland. The Supreme Court hears cases of the greatest public or constitutional importance affecting the whole population.

Law students studying and relaxing outside on campus

Courses Herts offer

Interested in studying Criminology and Criminal Justice here at Herts?

Take a look at our undergraduate course below:

As part of this course, you will have the opportunity to add an additional year to study abroad or do a work placement.

Get a feel for studying at Herts

Contact us

We hope you all found these resources useful but we appreciate that you may have more questions.

If you have any questions regarding our campuses, facilities, accommodation or just general life here at Herts, you can contact current Herts students via Unibuddy.