PGDip Criminal Justice

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Postgraduate Diploma
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The PGDip Criminal Justice at the University of Lancashire (formerly UCLan) is designed for aspiring professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of crime, justice, and societal responses. You will explore complex issues within the criminal justice system, from policing and sentencing to victim support and international criminal law. This postgraduate diploma is ideal if you are looking to advance your career in law enforcement, policy, social work, or research, providing you with critical analytical tools to examine the effectiveness and ethics of justice practices. You will gain insights into both UK and international perspectives on crime and its control.

This full-time, on-campus postgraduate diploma is studied over one year, immersing you in a dynamic learning environment. You will engage with core modules such as Research Methods, Decision Making in the context of Threat, Risk and Harm, and Criminal Justice - an International Perspective. Depending on your choices, you may also delve into specialized areas like Understanding Safeguarding and Vulnerabilities or International Terrorism. You will develop advanced research and analytical skills, preparing you for impactful roles within the criminal justice sector and further academic study.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This postgraduate diploma in Criminal Justice offers a comprehensive exploration of the field, encompassing both core and optional modules. Students will engage with essential research methodologies and gain practical experience through a dissertation. The curriculum delves into critical areas such as decision-making in threat, risk, and harm contexts, and examines criminal justice from an international perspective. Optional modules provide specialized knowledge in safeguarding, domestic abuse, radicalization, international terrorism, open-source investigations, and international criminal law.

1 Modules

Research Methods
MSc Dissertation
Decision Making in the context of Threat, Risk and Harm
Research in Practice
Criminal Justice - an International Perspective

2 Optional modules

Understanding Safeguarding and Vulnerabilities
Understanding Domestic and Sexual Abuse
Religion and Radicalisation
International Terrorism
Open Source Internet Investigation
International Criminal Law and Security

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,020.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 26,020.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 687.00 - USD 1,335.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 5,034.00
Estimated Total USD 8,056.00 - USD 11,278.00

Living cost estimates are based on Preston Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

71%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesCorrections & RehabilitationCybersecurity & Digital ForensicsEmployment & Labor LawFamily & Civil LawHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareInternational & Human Rights LawMental Health & CounselingPolice & Public Safety

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Global Legal Law Firm

NHS

Napthens Solicitors

Why Study PGDip Criminal Justice at University of Lancashire (formerly UCLan)

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Lancashire (formerly UCLan) in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about PGDip Criminal Justice at University of Lancashire (formerly UCLan)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work 10 hours per week during term time for diploma courses and 20 hours for degree courses, with full-time work during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you must meet specific English language requirements: a TOEFL overall score of 86, IELTS overall score of 6.0, or PTE overall score of 61. Particular subscores apply for each test; ensuring you meet these is crucial for your application.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Crime Analyst, Policy Advisor, Law Enforcement Officer, Social Worker, and Legal Researcher.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MSc Criminal Justice program covers essential topics like Criminal Justice theories and concepts, and the role of social influences on crime. You'll gain insights into the Criminal Justice System through both UK and international perspectives.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The PGDip Criminal Justice program has an intake in September each year. Make sure to check application deadlines to secure your spot.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️