What will I learn on this module?
Talk about crime often focuses on the offender – what they have done, why they have done it, what we happen to them and so on – almost to the point where the victims of crime is overlooked or even ignored altogether. Criminologists, for instance, have often been accused of this. Similarly, it is often argued that the criminal justice system has paid limited attention to victims of crime in their pursuit of ‘catching criminals’. In this module, however, you will consider these arguments and shed light on the vitally important aspects of crime: the victim of crime, the wider processes of victimisation, and the service provision for victims of crime. In doing this, you will explore the expanding work in the sub-discipline of criminology called victimology, and focus on three key issues: (1) the influence of social variables – such as class, age, race, gender and sexuality – on victimisation, (2) the relationship between victims and witnesses of crime; and (3) contemporary case studies – such as sex work, human trafficking, cyber-victimisation and hate crime – to see how victimisation operates within these issues.
How will I learn on this module?
Classroom learning will take place in lectures and seminars. Lecturers will facilitate your learning by outlying the key concepts, theories and debates on the subject. The seminars will develop the concepts, theories and debates from the lectures in a more interactive setting where you will (often working in small groups) engage in discussion, explore academic literature in depth on the topic, and relate these to contemporary examples.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
On the module you will be academically supported in many ways. First, the teaching team which includes the module leader as well as other lecturers will be available in person at the lectures and seminars to guide you through the module and answer any questions. Second, you will be able to email the teaching team and meet them during set office hours to ask questions. Third, the module has an online electronic learning portal website including a module handbook that guides you through many frequently asked questions.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
1. To understand how, where, when, why and with what effects, victimisation occurs;
2. To understand the key theories and concepts relating to victimology;
3. To outline and critically assess the service provision for victims and witnesses of crime in England and Wales.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
1. To enhance your criminological imagination and develop independent learning skills.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
1. To consider the attributes, challenges and policy environment of those working with victims and witnesses of crime.
How will I be assessed?
The seminar programme will support the formative assessment for this module, allowing for the discussion of the ways in which victimisation occurs (MLO 1), the theories of victimology (MLO 2) and the provision of services for victims and witnesses (MLO 3).
You will be summatively assessed through two assessments. The first is a 2,000 word essay (50%) which will access MLOs 1 and 2. The second assessment is a 90 minute exam (50%) which will focus on MLOs 1 and 2 as well as MLO 3. Comprehensive feedback will be provided for both assignments separately. It will be sent to you electronically within 20 working days of submission.
The formative and summative assessment will all speak to MLO 4 and MLO 5.
Pre-requisite(s)
none
Co-requisite(s)
none
Module abstract
Please find details of this module in the other sections provided.
Course info
UCAS Code M900
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Social Sciences
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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