LAU44171 Penology

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module, students should be able to:

• Critically appraise social and political ideas relating to state punishment of offenders
• Construct well-sourced arguments relating to sentencing and prison using a multi-disciplinary approach, as appropriate
• Analyse and evaluate the workings of the penal system
• Critically analyse an aspect of the penal system and/or penology in-depth, using appropriate sources.
• Present findings in a logical and clear manner.

Module Content

Penology involves the study of how the state punishes those who have been convicted of offences. The subject covers the interlocking issues of sentencing, prison and non-custodial punishments. The module will equip students to take an in-depth look at the penal system and evaluate why when and how and it is legitimate for the state to punish. The module will also take a practical look at the administration of punishment, with a particular focus on prisons. Students will examine the contemporary issues and problems concerning these institutions and evaluate possibilities for reform. Students will also conduct analysis of penal policy. Penology involves a broad multi-disciplinary approach which includes aspects of sociology, political theory and philosophy as well as law and human rights. It is closely related to criminology. Students are not required to take the module in criminology; however, penology and criminology are natural partner-courses and students who study both will find that they inform one another.