2026/27 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

LAW1166 Crime, Inequality and Social Issues

20 Credits Class Size: 80

Module manager: Dr Matt Tidmarsh
Email: M.J.Tidmarsh@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2026/27

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

The module explores the links between crime and inequality in its many different guises. The module is divided into three parts. The first focuses on theory, data and politics; exploring theories of inequality, evidence on inequality in the UK and political responses to tackling inequality. The second analyses social issues which are understood as manifestations of inequality, resulting in some groups being more vulnerable than others to engaging in crime and/or being a victim of crime. The final part explores different sites of intervention for tackling inequality with the expectation of reducing crime.

Objectives

The purpose of the module is to explore, at theoretical, empirical and policy level, how crime is connected to inequality and social divisions. This knowledge will ensure students understand the links between social inequalities, offending, victimisation, and political decision-making.

The learning activities are designed to allow students to discuss and develop their own knowledge, experiences, and perceptions of social inequalities as they relate to crime. This collaborative working supports students in developing their own knowledge and learning from others in the process.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:

1. Conceptualise inequality and related concepts according to a range of competing definitions;
2. Identify and describe inequality across a range of indicators;
3. Describe the main social issues (including crime) associated with inequality and the debates which surround how they are defined.
4. Discuss the complex links between social issues, inequality and crime and identify individuals most likely to be affected.

Skills Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:

1. Recognise critical thinking skills and raise questions concerning established ideas and knowledge.
2. Demonstrate core academic writing skills.
3. Demonstrate ability to reference accurately following the Leeds Harvard style.

Syllabus

Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module.

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Lecture 11 1 11
Seminar 5 1.5 7.5
Independent online learning hours 7.5
Private study hours 174
Total Contact hours 18.5
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 200

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

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.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Coursework . 100
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading List

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