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Criminal Justice

DProf
Duration
3-4 years
Start
September 2025
Delivery
In-person

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.   
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What you'll do

  • You’ll benefit from established professional links with Lancashire Constabulary and other law enforcement agencies, regionally, nationally and internationally.
  • 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. As well as 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 Charlotte Barlow
Reader in Criminal Justice and Policing
Dr Les Humphreys
Senior Lecturer in Criminal Justice and Policing
Dr Emily Cooper
Senior Lecturer

Entry requirements

  • Students with an undergraduate degree will commence at Stage 1 of the Professional Doctorate Programme.
  • The possession of a good honours degree will be required and the applicant will be able to:
  • (a) demonstrate the ability to work at Masters level
  • (b) demonstrate they are or have been active in professional practice in the area of criminal justice (e.g. through engagement in research projects, publications, presentation of papers at conferences, professional qualifications).
  • Holders of a relevant Masters degree (Pass) may enter directly at Stage Two of the Professional Doctorate programme subject to an interview and review of a project proposal. If you do not possess a relevant Masters degree but want to progress to the Professional Doctorate programme at Stage 2, UCLan and other universities provide a considerable choice on relevant Masters degrees. Please speak to the course leader for further information.
  • Applicants will be required to have a minimum level of proficiency in English Language equivalent to IELTS grade 6.5
  • All applicants will be interviewed prior to acceptance on the course and if appropriate an AP(E)L application will be considered.
  • Two references will be required.

Fees and funding

2025/26
UK
Full-time£5,250 per year
Part-time£2,625 per year
International
Full-time£17,900 per year

Scholarships and bursaries

We have a wide range of bursaries, scholarships and funds available to help support you whilst studying with us.

Select your country to see eligibility information and how to apply by selecting more info on the cards below.

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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 Central Lancashire on our student contract page