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 poster advertising the 30th anniversary of the Institute of Criminology's Police Executive Programme.

Police Executive Programme celebrates 30 years.

The Institute of Criminology's Police Executive Programme marks three decades researching and promoting evidence-based policing.

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A full-body portrait photo of Dr Helen Kosc.

Latest stories

Why timing matters after prison: New research rethinks desistance as 'temporal work'

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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.
PhD student
PhD Course

The Institute of Criminology offers both full-time and part-time PhD degree courses.
Student outside Criminology Building
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 Jul 2026

Andy West visits the Institute for joint PRC and Radzinowicz Library event

A photo of author Andy West and Dr Helen Kosc, standing in the Radzinowicz Library at the Institute of Criminology.

2 Jul 2026

Why timing matters after prison: new research rethinks desistance as 'temporal work'

A full-body portrait photo of Dr Helen Kosc.

25 Jun 2026

Paolo Campana gives expert opinion to Queensland inquiry into ‘criminal governance’ of construction

Professor Paolo Campana is seen giving evidence via video link during the Commission of Inquiry into the CFMEU and Misconduct in the Construction Industry at the Brisbane Magistrates Court in Brisbane

10 Jun 2026

PhD researcher designing new tool to identify psychopathy in China

A photo of PhD student Cheryl Peng.

21 May 2026

How Networks Shape Youth Violence — Insights for Practitioners, Policymakers, and Researchers

21 May 2026

Annual PhD Conference asks how criminology can confront injustice and marginalisation

A photo of five PhD students standing on front of a lecture desk, at the Institute of Criminology.
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

Job vacancies at the Institute
HR Administrator (Part Time)
Institute Merchandise
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Prospective student application portal
Please note that the portal opens in September 2026 for study in 2027.

Events

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Evidence-Based Policing Conference 2026

13 July to 16 July 2026 Faculty of Law, David Williams Building

Evidence-Based Policing Conference 2026
The 28th Annual McWilliams Probation Lecture - Artificial Intelligence in Probation: Opportunities, Risks, and Responsible Use

14 July 2026 1:00pm to 5:00pm Institute of Criminology Lower Ground Seminar Rooms