Maynooth University School of Law and Criminology

Criminology can be described as the study of crime, people who commit crime, and the criminal justice system. The Postgraduate Diploma in Comparative Criminology and Criminal Justice gives students the opportunity to develop a specialist knowledge of debates around crime causation and control, within a comparative and international context. Students undertake a wide variety of modules which aim to combine theoretical concepts with real-world problems such as surveillance, policing and youth crime.

As a student in Maynooth you will be part of our vibrant community of students and scholars working in the fields of criminology and criminal justice. Our expert academic team, drawing on their extensive research and professional experience, deliver an interdisciplinary programme with a strong emphasis on enhanced research skills. These skills are highly sought-after by employers in the area.

Teaching is delivered by means of small class lectures, in-class simulations, workshops, and master classes. In addition to the modules, the School works with leading academics and practitioners who provide seminars in various aspects of criminology and criminal justice throughout the academic year.

There is a strong focus on employability throughout the programme. We also offer students the opportunity to apply for our Postgraduate Placement module, which gives successful applicants the chance to work part-time for one semester at one of our partner organisations. We have partnerships with a broad range of organisations across the public and private sector, including the Irish Council for Civil Liberties, the Irish Penal Reform Trust, Forsa, PrivacyEngine, and Alcohol Action Ireland.