We understand that it might be hard to picture what your first year at University will look like in these uncertain times. That's why we wanted to offer some materials to help you to get prepared and learn a little more about what Criminology at Birmingham is all about.
Hello from your Admissions Tutor
"Hello everyone. My name is Dr Frankie Rogan and I am a Lecturer in the department of Social Policy, Sociology and Criminology at the University of Birmingham. I am also the Admissions Tutor for the department so you may have met me if you've attended open days or offer holder days in the past. We are looking forward to welcoming you to our department in September and are working hard to prepare for your arrival. I hope you find this page useful, and we look forward to you joining our department soon!"
Summer reading
recommended by our lecturers
'On The Run'
by Alice Goffman
Recommended by
Professor Simon Pemberton
"Alice Goffman's On The Run is based on her ethnographic research of a Philadelphia neighbourhood and touches upon a range of issues that may be of interest to sociologists and criminologists alike: policing, surveillance, crime, and inequality. The book also sparked a debate around research ethics in the social sciences. These debates speak to some of the key issues that will be explored during your degree programme and may be interesting for you to think about. You can read some of these debates in a range of online publications, such as The New York Times."
'The End of Policing' by Alex S. Vitale
Recommended by
Dr Charmian Werren
"This book is a great contribution to discussions around policing. Alex S. Vitale challenges the idea that certain forms of intervention (through, for example, diversity training, or improved employment practices) can solve the wider systemic issues within policing itself. Vitale makes the case for an 'end to policing' - exploring alternatives such as legalization, restorative justice and harm reduction. It is particularly relevant in the current moment as debates around police brutality and repression enter the mainstream media and public consciousness."
'Say Why to Drugs'
by Dr Suzi Gage
Recommended by
Dr Mark Monaghan
"This is a great book, which helps to challenge and debunk common myths and misconceptions that often circulate around drug use. Grounded in scientific research, the book provides a solid overview of how drugs work and what they do. This book is engaging and accessible and provides a good insight into an often hotly debated topic.
You can also listen to the Say Why to Drugs podcast on the Apple Podcasts website."
Study Criminology at the University of Birmingham
BA Criminology
An Introduction to criminology
Download a PDF copy of our Introductory Guide to Criminology, which includes key concepts, recommended reading and links to online resources.
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