Criminology - Research

Studying a PhD in Criminology in the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work allows students to take an interdisciplinary approach to the study of criminology in a stimulating, supportive and innovative environment. Criminologists are interested in understanding how behaviours come to be defined as ‘criminal’, why definitions and responses vary over time and place, how harmful behaviours can affect people and how best to respond to and manage such behaviours. Undertaking a PhD in Criminology allows for an in-depth examination of a criminological issue, which results in new knowledge, advances our understanding of that area and helps identify more effective ways to think about and respond to issues, helping to improve society and people’s lives. It provides a unique opportunity to develop your skills and become an expert on your chosen topic, with the findings of the PhD being used to inform policy, practice and future research.



Staff in the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work publish world-class research which has local and global impact. Our funders and partners include research councils, government departments, the EU, the Council of Europe and large foundations. Our research informs the development of policies in many areas, including education, criminal justice, teaching and learning, the well-being of children, social cohesion and justice, mental health and trauma informed practice.



The Institute for Criminology and Criminal Justice is one of the research centres that PhD in Criminology students may choose to join. This research centre brings together staff and PhD students from the School of Law and the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work in a friendly, supportive and interdisciplinary environment. It frequently invites guest speakers from other Universities to present their work, allowing PhD students to develop their research networks beyond Queen’s University Belfast, as well as hosting staff-student networking events, writing retreats, mentoring and publication sessions, as well as thesis presentation competitions.



Another very popular research centre among PhD in Criminology students is the Centre for Children’s Rights (CRC), an internationally renowned centre for research on Children's Rights focusing on research intended to better understand and improve children’s lives. This research centre is very active and provides a very supportive and collegial environment for PhD students to present their findings, engage with international experts and be exposed to world leading research. The CRC has a reputation for its consultations with children and is known for its work with various UN organisations such as UNICEF.



PhD in Criminology students also have the opportunity to interact with other PhD students attending Queen’s University Belfast through the Thomas J. Moran Graduate School. The Graduate School provides a beautiful space for PhD students to socialise and study, as well as a variety of training, development, employability and community/policy related opportunities to PhD students.

Graduate

The minimum academic requirement for admission to a research degree programme is normally an Upper Second Class Honours degree from a UK or ROI HE provider, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Further information can be obtained by contacting the School of Social Sciences, Education and Social Work.



International Students

For information on international qualification equivalents, please check the specific information for your country at https://www.qub.ac.uk/Study/international-students/your-country/



English Language Requirements

Evidence of an IELTS* score of 7.0, with not less than 6.0 in any component, or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University is required (*taken within the last 2 years).



International students wishing to apply to Queen's University Belfast (and for whom English is not their first language), must be able to demonstrate their proficiency in English in order to benefit fully from their course of study or research. Non-EEA nationals must also satisfy UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) immigration requirements for English language for visa purposes.



For more information on English Language requirements for EEA and non-EEA nationals see: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs.



If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, INTO Queen's University Belfast offers a range of English language courses. These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree.

How to Apply

Apply using our online Postgraduate Applications Portal and follow the step-by-step instructions on how to apply.



Find a supervisor

If you're interested in a particular project, we suggest you contact the relevant academic before you apply, to introduce yourself and ask questions.



To find a potential supervisor aligned with your area of interest, or if you are unsure of who to contact, look through the staff profiles at https://www.qub.ac.uk/courses/postgraduate-research/find-a-phd-supervisor/?school=Queen%27s%20Business%20School



You might be asked to provide a short outline of your proposal to help us identify potential supervisors.

Entry Year: Academic Year 2026/27

Career Prospects

Introduction

Many of our PhD graduates have gone on to lead successful careers in academia, government organisations, the community and voluntary sector, private industry and consultancy. Throughout their studies, PhD in Criminology students are mentored by their PhD supervisors, with these supervisors not only providing help and support to complete the PhD research but also providing advice to PhD students on their career development. Students also benefit from unique initiatives, such as Researcher Plus, which bolster a student’s employability. Moreover, opportunities to engage with potential future employers are available through the work of PhD supervisors, participation in conferences and seminar, as well as the activities of the Graduate School. Additionally, PhD in Criminology students have access to a dedicated Careers Consultant to provide one-to-one support and advice on applying for jobs, preparing for interviews, developing C.V.s and enhancing career prospects.

https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/sgc/careers/careers-support-for-students/



Employment after the Course

For further information on career development opportunities at PhD level please contact the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences Career Development Team on ahssdevoffice@qub.ac.uk / +44 28 9097 5175 The AHSS Development Officers will be happy to provide further information on your research area career prospects.