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The module is designed to enable you to gain an understanding of the position and role of the police in the wider context of criminology and social science. Drawing on contemporary policing theory and practice, this module will provide an introduction to the role of the policing in the wider criminal justice system in Scotland. The module begins by examining the history of the police, including the emergence of ‘modern’ policing. Different policing theories and models will then be introduced, with clear links between theory and practice being made, including international examples where relevant. The module proceeds by focusing on the development of the contemporary roles and functions of policing and the police, exploring the links between social control and the broader criminal justice agencies, including the role of vulnerable individuals in the process. The final part of the module introduces the concept of evidence informed policing.

Upon completion of this module you will be able to
LO1: Describe the historical development of the police and policing
LO2: Recognise key theoretical perspectives on policing and the police
LO3: Describe the different roles and functions of the police and criminal justice agencies
LO4: Identify different ways of assessing policing evidence, sources and facilitating evidence informed practice
LO5: Differentiate between different policing practices and styles