191-003 Crime Policy: A Sociological Approach

Formerly available as 191-202/302. Students who have completed 191-202 or 191-302 are not eligible to enrol in this subject.

Usually 25 points of first year criminology and/or 25 points of sociology.

Many criminology graduates find themselves researching, developing and applying crime policy in government, political and other contexts. This course helps prepare students for such work. As well as providing an overview of factors shaping policy in Australia and other countries, it reviews challenges associated with making criminological theory relevant in practical contexts. Emphasis is on exploring contemporary reform issues such as control of the sex industry, drug law reform, initiatives for victims of crime, public drunkenness and other 'victimless' offences, white-collar crime and crime prevention. The course also draws on sociological theory to help understand obstacles to reform. Specific theorists used include Marx, Weber, Durkheim, Habermas and feminist schools.

• have significant cognitive, analytical and problem-solving skills;

• understand complex concepts and express them lucidly in writing and orally;

• have advanced awareness of cultural, ethnic and gender diversities and their implications;

• have considerable capacity for independent critical thought and self-directed learning;

• have an ability to plan work and to use time effectively.

An essay of 2000 words 50% (due during the semester) and a 2-hour examination 50% (held at the end of semester). To obtain a final result students must attend at least 7 out of 10 tutorials.

A subject reader will be available from the University Bookshop