Institute of Criminology

We are one of the oldest criminological institutes in Europe and have a worldwide reputation for excellence in both research and teaching. Our academic staff are international leaders in their fields, offering expertise in a broad range of research themes.

A portrait photo of Professor Leo Zaibert, the newly appointed Director of the Institute of Criminology.

Professor Leo Zaibert becomes new Director

We are delighted to announce that Professor Leo Zaibert has become Director of the Institute of Criminology.

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A photograph of the cover of 'Character, Circumstances, and Criminal Careers'. To the right are portrait photos of contributors Per-Olof Wikstrom, Kyle Treiber, and Gabriela Roman.

'Characters, Circumstances, and Criminal Careers'

New book published by Per-Olof H Wikström, Kyle Treiber and Gabriela Roman receives an ASC-DLC Outstanding Contribution Award for contributions to criminology.

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MPhil Course

The Institute's MPhil in Criminology course provides a foundational education in prominent criminological theories, research methods, & areas of criminological knowledge. Compulsory modules on criminological theories & research methods, familiarise students with historic & contemporary criminological thinking & research. A variety of optional seminars are on offer each year covering a wide range of criminological topics.
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MSt Courses

The Institute offers two MSt Courses: a MSt in Applied Criminology, Penology and Management and a MSt in Applied Criminology and Police Management.
Applications open 11 September 2026.
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PhD Course

The Institute of Criminology offers both full-time and part-time PhD degree courses.
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Undergraduate Modules

Undergraduate modules in criminology for students in Sociology and Law, including a joint Sociology / Criminology degree.

Voices of Criminology

Read former students' stories, including their experiences at the Institute and what they are doing now.

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News

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8 Oct 2026

‘Aristotle’s Prison’: Professor Alison Liebling’s new book explores what makes a supportive prison

A photo of the cover for Alison Liebling's book 'Aristotle's Prison: A Search for Humanity in Tragic Places'. The cover shows a painting of a man and woman in a prison cell, being illuminated by light coming through a barred window.

1 Oct 2026

Professor Leo Zaibert appointed as Director of the Institute of Criminology

A portrait photo of Professor Leo Zaibert, the newly appointed Director of the Institute of Criminology.

30 Sep 2026

Student-led network to connect criminologists with researchers and practitioners in computing

Text reads: 404 Justice. Crime and punishment in the computable society.

24 Sep 2026

Jack Stabler receives Innovation Award by Society for Evidence-Based Policing

A photo of a man standing in front of a display board from the Society of Evidence-Based Policing.

23 Sep 2026

'Character, Circumstances, and Criminal Careers' wins ASC-DLC Outstanding Contribution Award

Text reads: Character, circumstances, and criminal careers. Towards a dynamic development and life-course criminology. Per-Olof H Wikstrom, Kyle Treiber, Gabriela Roman.

22 Sep 2026

An Interview with Inqilab Shabahzov (MPhil in Criminology 2022-23, PhD in Criminology 2024-28)

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Institute entrance 2020

Research at the Institute

The Institute is highly productive in terms of its academic research. It hosts six Research Centre's, alongside some Research Groups.

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Information

Register for our Postgraduate Open Day on 6 November 2026
Find out first-hand what it's like to study for a postgraduate qualification in Criminology.
Institute Merchandise
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Prospective student application portal
The portal is now open for applications for study in 2027.

Events

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Public Guest Seminar - Professor Alison Liebling with respondent Andy West

15 October 2026 * 5:00pm to 7:00pm Institute of Criminology Lower Ground Floor

Professor Alison Liebling and Andy West

Public Guest Seminar - Professor Ekow N. Yankah

29 October 2026 * 5:00pm to 7:00pm Institute of Criminology Lower Ground Floor

Professor Ekow Yankah

Postgraduate Open Day: Friday, 6 November 2026

6 November 2026 * 9:30am to 3:00pm Institute of Criminology

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Public Guest Seminar - Dr Thiago R. Oliveira

12 November 2026 * 5:00pm to 7:00pm Institute of Criminology Lower Ground Floor

Thiago R. Oliveira

Big Ideas Lecture - Professor Angie Hobbs

26 November 2026 * 5:00pm to 6:00pm Institute of Criminology Lower Ground Floor

Professor Angie Hobbs

Professor Andreas von Hirsch Memorial Event

2 December 2026 * 5:00pm to 7:00pm Institute of Criminology Lower Ground Floor

Professor Andreas von Hirsch