Introduction to Criminology

Unit code: LCR1001 | Study level: Undergraduate
Credit points
12
(Generally, 1 credit = 10 hours of classes and independent study.)
Location
City Campus
Prerequisites
Nil
(Or equivalent to be determined by unit coordinator)
Overview
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Overview

The unit introduces students to an array of explanations for crime that form the basis of criminological theory, placing these in their historical and political context. The unit explores: the changing nature of what we understand as crime; traditional and mainstream explanations for why people commit crime; the emergence of academic challenges to mainstream explanations of criminality; victims and victimology; inequality and social difference; and crime and the media. In addition, the unit explores the way in which information and statistics on crime are collected. Students will be encouraged to understand the connection between criminological approaches and practical responses to crime.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. Describe key criminological approaches and their historical and political roots;
  2. Differentiate between conservative, mainstream and radical theories in criminology and relate them to the way in which changing social, political and economic contexts affects the way certain crimes are defined;
  3. Collaborate in small groups to communicate and interpret criminological knowledge in written and oral formats;
  4. Demonstrate effective library-based research skills to develop a sound understanding of the criminological literature;
  5. Apply effective academic writing skills in critical analysis of a key criminological issue.
  6. Participate in an academic community through reflective and critical engagement in academic texts and understanding of principles of academic integrity.

Assessment

For Melbourne campuses

Assessment type: Test
|
Grade: 20%
Quiz
Assessment type: Essay
|
Grade: 40%
An individually written research essay.
Assessment type: Presentation
|
Grade: 40%
A group presentation in week 4 based on the research essay
Assessment type: Other
|
Grade: 0%
Evidence of completion of the Academic Integrity Modules (Hurdle)

Required reading

Crime, Criminality and Criminal Justice,
Rob White and Santina Perrone (2019)| OUP Aust

This textbook is shared with LCR1002 Policing and Offending. Further required and recommended readings will be made available online via the unit's VU Collaborate site.

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following course(s):

Bachelor of Criminology
LBCR | Bachelor degree | Duration: 3 years
Bachelor of Criminology/Bachelor of Psychological Studies
LBCP | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4 years
Bachelor of Laws (Honours)/Bachelor of Criminology
LHCR | Bachelor honours degree | Duration: 4.5 years
Bachelor of Laws/ Bachelor of Criminology
LBLC | Bachelor degree | Duration: 4.5 years

Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course. VU takes care to ensure the accuracy of this unit information, but reserves the right to change or withdraw courses offered at any time. Please check that unit information is current with the Student Contact Centre.

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