SOC4033 - Policing and Protecting the State

Objectives:

Assessment tasks are designed to enable students to demonstrate the Learning and Employability outcomes for the relevant level of study. Level Learning Outcomes are embedded in the assessment task(s) at that level. This enables a more integrated view of overall student performance at each level.

Content:

This module introduces students to policing society in the UK with a learning journey starting with a historical overview of police development, roles and structures to addressing modern day criminal activity. Policing concepts such maintaining trust and confidence in communities will be explored and their relevance to modern criminal behaviours.Policing Strategies that target crime will be examined. Internal Police cultures will also be scrutinised exploring areaslikegenderandraceand how attitudes have developed through time. This module will also allow students to examine criminological theories to understand how and why crime is committed and theirrelationship to police interventions.

Learning and Teaching Information:

Lectures
Hours: 20
Intended Group Size: 100

Seminars/Workshops
Hours: 20
Intended Group Size: 1

Guided independent study
Hours: 260

Further details relating to assessment
In component one, students will undertake an independent inquiry review of a significant case relating to police misconduct, corruption, or breaches of human rights. Students will draw upon relevant academic research and inquiry findings to demonstrate understanding of the nature of the case, the role and effectiveness of formal review or inquiry processes, and the broader implications for police legitimacy and public trust. This assessment develops foundational skills in academic research, critical evaluation, and evidence-based analysis at Level 4.

Component two adopts an applied, practice-focused approach through a group briefing exercise grounded in professional policing contexts. Working collaboratively, students will analyse a fictional case scenario involving professional standards concerns and present a structured briefing that demonstrates ethical decision-making, accountability, and appropriate referral processes. To support individual academic integrity and reflection, students will also submit an individual written summary linked to the group task. Together, these assessments promote teamwork and communication skills, while ensuring individual engagement and accountability.

Assessment:

001 90 minute online quiz, & multiple short answer; end of Semester 1 60%
002 Group presentation; 10 minutes; end of Semester 2 40%

Fact File

Module Coordinator - Amelia Bell
Level - 4
Credit Value - 30
Pre-Requisites - NONE
Semester(s) Offered - 4YL

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