A fully online Master's programme developing leadership, investigative, and analytical skills for professionals working in or entering the Criminal Justice System.
100% Online
Study mode
1 year+
Duration
Level 7
Level
180 Credits
Credits
Why this programme
Taught by applied academics with practitioner backgrounds in the Criminal Justice System — ensuring every skill gained is directly relevant and immediately applicable.
The programme is led by applied academics with direct practitioner backgrounds within the Criminal Justice System, ensuring course material reflects the current work of all stakeholders and is aligned with the latest sector standards.
Students critically analyse terrorism, sexual offences, cybercrime, the dark web, and organised crime through case studies — developing the specialised skill set needed to investigate and lead responses to serious and violent crime.
All assessments mirror professional outputs used across the Criminal Justice System — including strategic briefing documents, intelligence reports, and business pitches — giving graduates demonstrable expertise employers can readily apply.
UK Student Loan may cover your fees
Government Postgraduate Master's Loan up to £12,858. To qualify you must hold one of the following:
Who it's for
This MA is designed for professionals working in or entering the Criminal Justice System who want to advance into senior, specialist, or leadership roles.
Criminal Justice professionals — advance into senior or specialist roles in policing, probation, prison services, border force, or related agencies
Intelligence and investigation specialists — develop strategic leadership and investigative expertise in serious and organised crime
Counter-terrorism and cybercrime professionals — deepen knowledge of terrorism, extremism, digital offending, and the dark web
Graduates in criminology, law, or psychology — build applied practitioner skills for a career in the Criminal Justice System
Career changers — transition into the criminal justice or public safety sector from a relevant professional background
Working professionals — study fully online and part-time — designed to fit around shift patterns and operational commitments
Curriculum
The programme covers the core pillars of serious and violent crime investigation, leadership, and response — from terrorism and cybercrime to intelligence management and criminal justice policy.
Outcomes
Strategic leadership in high-pressure environments
Intelligence management and investigation
Terrorism and extremism threat assessment
Cybercrime and digital offending analysis
Criminal justice policy and frameworks
Professional resilience with traumatic material
Career outcomes
Graduates are equipped for senior leadership and specialist roles across the Criminal Justice System — including the NCA, HMRC, Border Force, and national counter-terrorism agencies.
Join professionals studying an MA Serious and Violent Crime fully online. Next intake available.
Programme details
Degree
MA Serious and Violent Crime
Study Mode
100% Online
Duration
1 year+ (part-time)
Credits
180 Credits
Requirements
A relevant degree is the standard route — but significant CJS professional experience is also accepted.
A bachelor's degree at 2:2 or above in a related field — such as criminology, law, policing, psychology, or social work
Non-standard entry: a minimum of three years of relevant work experience within the Criminal Justice System — for example in policing, probation, prison services, or border force
IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any element, or TOEFL iBT 90 (evidence of prior study in English also accepted)
Application process
Our admissions team guides you through every step.
Fill in the form below. Takes less than 2 minutes. No commitment required.
We confirm your eligibility, check your documents, and answer any questions.
Get your official offer letter and enrol on the next available intake date.
FAQ
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