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Criminal Justice

DProf
Duration
3 years
Start
September 2025
Delivery
Online learning

The Professional Doctorate in Criminal Justice provides an alternative award for the traditional Doctor of Philosophy (PhD). The DProf is a unique programme designed for professionals working in the Criminal Justice sector who are interested in furthering their development as expert practitioners.

Why study with us

  • Online resources provide the flexibility to study when and where it suits you, within a guided and structured framework.
  • The course is taught by lecturers with frontline experience in criminal justice organisations and those who are research active in this area.   
  • This course is a fully remote programme which offers flexibility to suit your needs.
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What you'll do

  • You’ll benefit from established professional links with local and national criminal justice agencies.
  • The Professional Doctorate course is delivered by a diverse range of experienced research/practitioner active staff from within the School.
  • You’ll develop a professional approach to research practice in criminal justice by analysing and critiquing the philosophical dimensions of research methodology and the use of current research techniques.
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Modules

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of our published course information. However, our programmes are subject to ongoing review and development. Changing circumstances may cause alteration to, or the cancellation of, courses. Changes may be necessary to comply with the requirements of accrediting bodies or revisions to subject benchmarks statements. We may also make changes to keep courses updated and contemporary, or as a result of student feedback. We reserve the right to make variations if we consider such action to be necessary or in the best interests of students.

How to apply for postgraduate research

Interested in studying postgraduate research? The application process can vary but we have some helpful tips.

Find out how to apply

View the course facilities

Academic expertise

JH
Dr Jennifer Hough
Senior Lecturer
Dr Laura Kelly-Corless
Senior Lecturer in Criminology
Dr Ian Turner
Reader in Human Rights and Security
Dr Nathan Birdsall
Research Fellow
Dr Les Humphreys
Senior Lecturer in Criminal Justice and Policing
Dr Emily Cooper
Senior Lecturer

Entry requirements

Please note that all applicants will need to submit a research proposal which will be reviewed by the staff team. Please contact the course leader for further details.

You can read further advice about research proposals on our how to apply for postgraduate research page.

Minimum qualifications:

  • Applicants must demonstrate the ability to work at Masters level by holding a qualification in a relevant area (please discuss this with the course leader)
  • Applicants must demonstrate they are or have been active in professional practice in the wider area of criminal justice (e.g. including through engagement in research projects, publications, presentation of papers at conferences, professional qualifications and relevant professional practice).
  • Two references will be required.
  • Applicants will need to submit a research proposal which will be reviewed by the staff team. Please contact the course leader for further details

Fees and funding

2025/26
UK
Online full-time£5,250 per year
Online part-time£2,625 per year
International
Full-time£17,900 per year
Online full-time£5,250 per year
Online part-time£2,625 per year
2026/27
Fees for 2026/27 have not yet been set. Please keep checking back for any further updates.

Scholarships and bursaries

We offer many scholarships, bursaries and funds to support you during your studies. Select your country or region to see if you are eligible and how to apply. 

We offer many scholarships, bursaries and funds to support you during your studies. 

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This course is delivered by the School of Law and Policing

For information on possible changes to course information, see our essential and important course information

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at the University of Lancashire on our student contract page