Module manager: Suzanne Young
Email: S.Young@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
This module is not approved as a discovery module
This module examines the main institutions of the criminal justice system and provides an introduction to the use and methods of punishment in modern society. In so doing, the module introduces a number of key issues and debates relating to the operation of the criminal justice system and the punishment of offenders.
The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the main institutions of the criminal justice system in England and Wales, discuss contemporary challenges and consider the effectiveness of the different institutions. This knowledge will ensure students understand the criminal justice process and appreciate the complexities of administering justice.
The learning activities are designed to get students working collaboratively to discuss their own knowledge, experiences and perceptions of the criminal justice system. This collaborative working supports students in developing their own knowledge and learning from others in the process.
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
1- Demonstrate knowledge of the aims and operation of the criminal justice system
2- Discuss the core principles underpinning the criminal justice system in England and Wales
3- Utilise criminal justice research evidence to discuss contemporary issues facing the criminal justice system in England and Wales
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
1- Raise questions concerning established ideas and knowledge
2- Collaborate with others to identify key issues in criminal justice
3- Communicate key issues in criminal justice effectively
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seminar | 11 | 2 | 22 |
| Independent online learning hours | 5.5 | ||
| Private study hours | 172.5 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 22 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
A formal formative assessment opportunity will be provided for each summative assessment task, which is specifically pedagogically aligned to that task. As part of this, each student will receive feedback designed to support the development of knowledge and skills that will be later assessed in the summative task.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | . | 100 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
The coursework will be a collaborative piece of work. Should a student not be able to undertake the first sit, the resit will be an individual piece of work.
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team