BA (Hons) Sociology and Criminology Bachelor's degree at Coventry University

Understand key theories in contemporary sociology and develop conceptual and analytical tools to examine social issues, such as power and inequalities, identity formation, influence of technology, urbanisation and globalisation. Engage with advanced research and debates, critically assessing complex social patterns and phenomena.

The module explores social policy as both an academic subject and a dynamic field of politics, practice and social action. Gain an understanding of key theories to evaluate policy, such as on education, health and disabilities, immigration and criminal justice, and consider how social policy reflects social problems, divisions and social justice.

This module examines historical and structural foundations of race, racism and decolonisation. You will engage with key theoretical frameworks to explore how colonialism, imperialism, and slavery have shaped racial categories, national identities and global inequalities. Through real-world case studies, you will critically examine the discourse on immigration, political representation and the criminal justice system and pathways towards a more equitable society.

This module explores how mass media and social media operate in contemporary society. You will examine key sociological concepts to help understand complex issues in modern media and popular culture, including those relating to race, class, gender and sexuality. You will have the opportunity to develop research skills to locate, interpret and articulate theories and evidence on media-related topics.

This module considers the relationships we have with ourselves (selfhood, identity), with others (families, romantic relationships, childhood), drawing on insights and research from sociology, history and cultural studies. You will explore interdisciplinary theoretical perspectives on gender, sexual orientation and identity and examine how embodiment is understood and debated from multiple perspectives.

Ever wondered why the chanting of 'Black Lives Matter' became a global movement? How social media became a main source of movement impacting political activism? Why activists resort to blocking motorways in England as a form of protest? Why some activists hide their identities, while others practise classic civil disobedience? This module aims to develop your understanding of social movements within historical and contemporary global contexts.

This module introduces you to key issues relating to policing democratic societies, including a critical evaluation of the relationships among the police, the state and the citizen. It aims to assess the independence of the police and their interdependence within the wider criminal justice system. This module will also explore concepts such as consensus, legitimacy and accountability in relation to policing practice. Topics to be debated range from policing protest and disorder to the role of th

This module explores the history and current issues of criminal sanctions, examining theories of punishment and risk management. It critically assesses the effectiveness of custodial and community sentences, addressing topics like prison diversity, privatisation and reintegration. Apply your understanding through group exercises in an assessment centre setting, developing insights into punishment and control practices.

This module critically examines how sex and sexuality are shaped, regulated and contested within society, focusing on power dynamics in public and private spheres. Rather than personal sexual practices, this module evaluates the social, legal and political forces that control and regulate sexuality. Module content also considers interdisciplinary perspectives on mechanisms of control (domestic violence) and resistance (LGBTQ and sex work activism, reproductive justice).

This module offers a critical exploration of social media spaces and other digital sites, focusing on how they continue to reshape societies. Trace the early history of the internet and examine contemporary social networks typified by platforms like Instagram, Reddit, X, YouTube, TikTok and Twitch. Finally, we look forward to potential futures.

This module focuses on political, social, cultural and popular constructions of victims of crime and wider social harms. It places critical focus on the victimisation experiences of marginalised social groups, demonstrating that certain individuals and groups are more readily ascribed victim status than others. You will consider how technology and global insecurity affect the way people experience being victims of crimes today on an international scale.

This module explores violence and exploitation in childhood and adulthood worldwide. Investigate incidence, prevalence, reporting and theoretical frameworks. Develop an understanding of concepts, current debates and theoretical approaches to violence and exploitation. Discussions cover research ranging from individual crimes to global organised crime, examining impacts on victims/survivors, national and international justice systems, support services and prevention strategies.

This module provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement undertaken during your programme. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

This module provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.