Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

Whilst the phenomenon of crime is not new, without a knowledge of where, why, and how it occurs, any government or societal approach to its control cannot possibly be successful. Crime and Society provides students with a theoretical and practical understanding of criminal behaviour. Social, psychological, biological, and opportunity-based approaches to understanding crime are used to provide a structural framework around which students can better understand individual and collective criminality in all its forms. This unit provides students with the skills to interpret criminal statistics and media reporting, providing the foundation upon which further criminological research can be launched.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Semester 2AlbanyFace to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 core unit in the Law and Society; Criminology; Criminology and Criminal Justice major sequences
  • Level 1 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) explain the phenomenon of crime, including types, extent, location and the portrayal of crime in the media; (2) apply various theoretical explanations to crime and criminal behaviour; (3) review criminological literature; and (4) demonstrate the ability to produce clear and concise written communication in a legal context.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) online quizzes; (2) research essay; and (3) examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Joseph Clare
Contact hours
3 hours per week
Recommended text

Newburn, T. Criminology (3rd Edition): Routledge 2017


Other useful references

Harrison, J. et al. Study Skills for Criminology: Sage 2012

McLaughlin, E. and Muncie, J. eds The Sage Dictionary of Criminology, 3rd edn: Sage 2012

White, R. and Perrone, S. Crime, Criminality & Criminal Justice: OUP 2014

  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.