About me
I studied professional policing at Teesside University from 2020-2023 where I graduated with a BSc first class honours degree. Once I was midway thorough second year, I started to get very passionate about research and knew that my next step would be postgraduate study. One evening in April 2023 whilst conducting research for my undergraduate dissertation I found the MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice course on the Durham University website and applied just to see what would happen. That evening, I dared to dream. Two months later whilst we were celebrating my sisters birthday I got an email and my heart skipped a beat when I saw the words “Congratulations Jagraj” and even though they say big boys don’t cry, that day I did because my dream had become a reality.
Increased Intensity
When I started my first week at Durham University it quickly became clear that the transition from undergraduate to postgraduate was going to be challenging as I was required to do more reading and preparatory activities. Creating a daily home timetable assisted me as it ensured that I had completed the set tasks prior to the lecture which was beneficial as it meant that I was not walking into the lecture in the unknown. Eventually I started making friends which has enhanced my learning experience because having classroom discussions has allowed my lens to widen as I get to acknowledge other people’s perspectives and challenge my own beliefs.
Core Module: Criminology, Theory and Critical Issues
Initially, I had feelings of trepidation when I heard that this core module would be studied in both term one and term two as I had never studied criminology previously, I was aware that the subject is ladened with theory. But this module was well balanced as we learnt about theory which was quite fun as it showed me how criminologists have divergent views on crime which makes criminology interesting as there is a plethora of debates and themes within the discipline. This module provided ample opportunity for guest lecturers from other universities and organisations to come and give us a talk which allowed me to draw connections between theory and the wider criminal justice system.
Placement
As on this course students are given the choice to select some of their modules, I chose the placement module as I felt it would add variety to the methods of learning I receive at Durham University and allow me to obtain valuable work experience. I undertook the placement at Young People’s Engagement and Justice Service in Darlington over four weeks from February 2024 – March 2024. On this placement I shadowed members of staff to enhance my understanding of youth justice. Over the four weeks I completed the following activities:
- Co-supervising youths conducting reparation activities
- Meeting the NGO’s involved with youth justice
- Observing youth cautions
- Observing interviews with youth offenders
- Carrying out school interventions
- Assisting with youth offenders case work
- Attending youth court hearings.
My advice to anybody considering studying this course
If you are interested in any aspect of the criminal justice system this course is certainly for you, as you get a variety on the course which makes it so refreshing. It is well known that postgraduate study is not challenge free as at times it becomes relentless but if you keep your foot on the accelerator and keep focussed you will receive the award of a MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice from this prestigious university which will open many more pathways in academia.
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