Prison Studies 

What is the function of prison in society? In this module, you'll be introduced to both theoretical and practical discussions around the institution of punishment and penal policy. To gain a broader view, you'll examine the UK prison system as it compares with other countries, such as the USA, China and South Africa. You'll look at the philosophical and empirical justifications for the use of custodial sentences, and analyse debates about prison as a means of social control.

Key Topics

In this module you will cover a range of topics including:

>Penal crisis and penal populism
>Structured sentencing and early release
>Justifications of imprisonment 1 – deterrence and rehabilitation
>Justifications of imprisonment 2 – desert and incapacitation
>Sociological perspectives on punishment
>Social, psychological and physical effects of custodial measures
>Prisoners' rights during detention
>The (re) privatisation of prisons
>Abolitionism and alternatives to custody

Assessment

There are a number of assessments that you complete as part of your coursework and forward to your academic tutor for grading and comments.

You'll also take a summative assessment at the end of your module. Exam venues are located across the UK and exams take place twice a year. Please note that there are additional assessment fees for each module.