The Master Programme in Criminology

The graduate study programme leading to a Master of Arts degree in Criminology is designed to provide students with an advanced understanding of crime, public response to crime and, specifically, criminal justice in Europe and beyond. It includes instruction in criminological theories and models of law enforcement, terrorism, organized and corporate crime, international police and judicial cooperation, youth criminology and juvenile justice.  In addition, it covers political crimes and transitional justice, psychology, law and criminal justice, as well as restorative justice and research methods.

The programme is intended to prepare students for research, teaching and professional employment in operational agencies within the field of criminal justice. It is characterised by a strong link between education and research: In this graduate degree programme, one will be able to study with a criminology staff that has expertise in a wide range of topics, from the theoretical to the applied. The master programme has an explicit international orientation that strongly promotes a comparative approach, including students’ critical and reflective attitudes, methodological skills and specialisation. During the programme, students will specialise in one of three following research areas by writing a master thesis:

• Crime and (in)security;
• Person- and Community-oriented Criminology; or
• Law Enforcement.

At the end of the programme, students should:

• possess a broad and in-depth knowledge of criminology and criminal justice in Europe;
• be able to do research in this field and draw policy conclusions;
• be able to write a thorough, research-based paper aimed at specialists, as well as papers for the broader public; and
• be able to communicate his/her knowledge in an efficient manner.

Information on courses (including the preparatory course) and admission requirements to the Master programme in Criminology is provided under the heading "Mastering Criminology." Finding accommodations and getting the required course materials are students’ first tasks at the beginning of each academic year. The webpage "Accommodation and Study Materials" provides guidance through these tasks. The Belgian educational approach has its own institutionalised procedures, requirements and expectations, which may differ from those of  its neighbouring countries. "Actually Studying" familiarises one with the study culture of the K.U. Leuven. Keep in mind, however, that being a student of the Leuven Institute of Criminology is more than just studying: Every student group has its own student union, which provides its students with a number of activities and parties. Find out more at "After Class Life."