Shannon – MSc Crime, Safety and Justice

School of Social Science

Why did you choose to study a postgraduate degree at Cardiff University?

Before studying Criminology, I had formed an interest in crime and the Criminal Justice system. In particular, I was interested not only in the reasons why an individual commits a crime, but the impact crime has on everyone in society.

My degree in Criminology, Criminal justice with Psychology provided me with the skills I needed to apply and be accepted into Cardiff University for Postgraduate study.

My interests and ideas have flourished since becoming a student at Cardiff. I opted to apply for Postgrad at Cardiff and particularly the School of Social Sciences as there are many expert lecturers with research interests in areas such as homicide, Domestic violence, Transnational crimes and Policing.

Additionally, the research themes are interdisciplinary and focus on modern approaches to criminology such as; Big data analysis, predictive policing and emerging methodologies for understanding the impact of crime and risks.

My modules during my MSc have broaden my interests in Criminological Theories and enlightened me to new perspectives and areas within Criminology, I did not realise I had an interest in.ovides. It was an extremely important criteria as I am a student coming from overseas. I wanted to be sure that I would have the necessary support if need it.

Another reason for choosing Cardiff University was the study environment where students can develop their skills freely and be critical and creative.

Last but not the least, my decision for Cardiff University was definite when I knew it was a Russel Group University. I am glad that I have chosen Cardiff University for my postgraduate studies. I can sincerely say that it has met all of my expectations.

How was your experience as a postgraduate at Cardiff University, in terms of the programme?

I have had an excellent experience, although stressful it has been extremely rewarding and interesting. The lecturers are engaging and very helpful as is the lectures and modules themselves. I have learned a great deal more than I did during my undergraduate degree and have found interests in topics I did not have before. g me to be critical and to think outside the box.

All academic staff is extremely supportive and engages with all of us.

Also, because the course has a condensed lecture schedule I have enough time to prepare for the following lectures and work part-time to support my studies.

How was your experience of living in Cardiff, in terms of the city, social life and accommodation, again specifically as a postgraduate student?

Cardiff is a great city as it is very contained, everything is within walking distance. There are plenty of shops and places for social events as well as parks for quiet walks. I myself have been living with my partner in private accommodation but I know there is lots of options in terms of shared living or private.

What was different about your postgraduate experience at Cardiff University compared to your previous degree?

My previous degree was with the University of South Wales, although I had a great experience there, I have found Cardiff to be a different environment, I have found the lecturers to be more engaged, the content of the modules has been challenging and interesting.

The main difference is not that a Postgraduate degree is more difficult but the expectation has increased. I can honestly say I have learned in some ways more during my experience as a Postgrad than my Undergrad.

There are also lots of opportunity for networking with professionals as there are always guest speakers and there is also plenty of volunteering options as well.

How did you fund your postgraduate degree?

I received funding from Student Finance Wales as well as a Bursary from Cardiff University.

How do you think that your postgraduate degree is helping prepare you for the future – job aspirations, career development, future study etc?

I hope to continue as a Doctoral Student at Cardiff, I have already secured supervisors for my PhD and have an idea in place.

My experience at Cardiff has encouraged me to do this as I did not have the confidence before, I have had so much encouragement and help – I have even secured a research position for this year alongside my current dissertation supervisor.