My experience studying Criminology and Criminal Justice at Wrexham University

Hi! My name is Kelly, and I am a 25-year-old MA Criminology and Criminal Justice student at Wrexham University. My journey to higher education was somewhat unconventional, but I always knew I wanted to study Criminology and Criminal Justice. During my childhood, I would watch endless crime documentaries and would proudly announce to all that I wished to work in a prison when I grew up. I had hoped to attend university at 18, at the same time as my peers, but life experiences meant that this was not possible. I enrolled on various A-Level courses but struggled to continue, for various reasons. At age 20, I decided to try for a final time. I enrolled onto an Access to Social Sciences and Humanities course. Here, my love for learning and researching flourished, and I developed enough confidence to apply to Wrexham University, knowing that Criminology and Criminal Justice would be the best fit.

Why I chose to study Criminology at Wrexham University

I initially chose to study Criminology and Criminal Justice at undergraduate level at Wrexham University for various reasons. Firstly, the Criminology and Criminology department are sector-leading with Teaching Quality and Student Satisfaction. Following researching the course’s rankings, I attended an open day, which far exceeded my expectations. Despite not yet knowing the lecturers, I was made to feel welcome, and their personable approach shined. Unlike other institutions I had visited, I felt like a person as opposed to a number, and knew this environment would allow me to excel academically. These initial feelings were also not erroneous. My time at Wrexham University as a student on the BA Criminology and Criminal Justice course was nothing short of magical. So much so, that I am now an MA Criminology and Criminal Justice student and will be beginning my PCET placement with the Criminology and Criminal Justice department in the next academic year.  

My favourite parts about the course 

To list my favourite part of the course is challenging, as I have loved every element. If I had to name a couple, however, I would begin with the opportunities for professional development. During the second year of my BA studies, I opted to undertake a Work Based Learning module, whereby I undertook a placement of my choosing, and reflected on my experiences. This placement resulted in me obtaining paid employment within my field; a job I still occupy to this day. Despite having only completed a year of study at that point, the modules I had completed allowed me to feel prepared for practice, due to their strong industry relevance. In addition, there have been various opportunities to take advantage of, including sector-specific careers and employability fairs, interesting guest lecturers, and a visit to an operational prison.  

I have also enjoyed being able to develop academically. The wealth of modules on offer have consistently allowed me to research to my interest throughout the degree. From modules covering drugs and alcohol, social policy, youth justice, terrorism, and signal crimes, to name a few, there are ample opportunities to develop your research interests. The diverse research and professional experiences of the Criminology and Criminal Justice team has also been especially useful. When I began completing my dissertation, I felt supported to be able to choose a topic of my own interest, knowing I would be supported by an academic with extensive practical and research experience. This made the research experience highly enjoyable.

Why I’d recommend Wrexham University to others

Being a student at Wrexham University has undoubtably been one of the best experiences of my life. For those who thrive with personal support, Wrexham University is an excellent choice. The community feeling is incredible, and you will form strong friendship groups from the offset. Aside from academic opportunities, there is a fantastic Student’s Union, with great staff, who hold annual student union awards. Last year, I was so grateful to be the recipient of the Proud Moment Award, and would encourage anybody thinking of joining the university to make good use of the student’s union where possible. There are also a wealth of socieities to join, should you wish to do so.   

Overall, Wrexham University is a wonderful institution, and I would recommend it to anyone who wishes to study any course at degree level.  

- Written by Kelly, BA (Hons) Criminology and Criminal Justice graduate, and current MA Criminology and Criminal Justice student 

If Kelly’s blog has inspired you to pursue your passion in the Criminology and Criminal Justice field, why not explore our courses further or attend one of our upcoming open days to speak to our friendly staff and students.