Advanced Criminal Law

Subject 730-415 (2009)

Note: This is an archived Handbook entry from 2009. Search for this in the current handbook

Credit Points: 12.50
Level: 4 (Undergraduate)
Dates & Locations:

This subject has the following teaching availabilities in 2009:

For information about these dates, click here.
Time Commitment: Contact Hours: Two 2-hours seminars per week
Total Time Commitment: 120 hours
Prerequisites:

Legal Method and Reasoning; Principles of Public Law; Torts; Legal Theory; Criminal Law and Procedure or equivalents.
Corequisites: None
Recommended Background Knowledge: None
Non Allowed Subjects: None
Core Participation Requirements:

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the Disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Student Support and Engagement Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Overview, Learning Outcomes, Assessment and Generic Skills sections of this entry.

It is University policy to take all reasonable steps to minimise the impact of disability upon academic study, and reasonable adjustments will be made to enhance a student's participation in the University's programs. Students who feel their disability may impact on meeting the requirements of this subject are encouraged to discuss this matter with a Faculty Student Adviser and Student Equity and Disability Support: http://services.unimelb.edu.au/disability
Subject Overview:

The subject is text-based, concentrating on recent articles and books on criminal law. The selection will vary from year to year. Printed materials will be provided where necessary.

Note: The essay in this subject is regarded as a substantial piece of legal writing for honours purposes.
Objectives: The subject aims to develop students’ understanding of the theory and practice of criminal law, and the workings of criminal law institutions, and to provide students with the opportunity to undertake a substantial piece of legal research.
Assessment:

Research essay of 4000-5000 words, 100%. Prerequisite of class presentation based on essay, and attendance at half of classes.
Prescribed Texts: None
Breadth Options:

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.
Fees Information: Subject EFTSL, Level, Discipline & Census Date
Generic Skills:

On completion of the subject, students should have developed the following generic skills:

  • the capacity for critical and independent thought and reflection
  • the capacity to communicate, both orally and in writing
  • the capacity for close reading and analysis of a range of sources
  • the ability to develop a research topic, and to prepare in substance an application for research funding
  • the capacity to plan and manage time
  • attitudes towards knowledge that include valuing truth, openness to new ideas and ethics associated with knowledge creation and usage
  • intercultural sensitivity and understanding

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