Crime and Public Policy

This subject is not offered in 2014.

Total of 120 hours

Criminology at Levels 1 & 2

For the purposes of considering request for Reasonable Adjustments under the disability Standards for Education (Cwth 2005), and Students Experiencing Academic Disadvantage Policy, academic requirements for this subject are articulated in the Subject Description, Subject Objectives, Generic Skills and Assessment Requirements of this entry.The University is dedicated to provide support to those with special requirements. Further details on the disability support scheme can be found at the Disability Liaison Unit website: http://www.services.unimelb.edu.au/disability/

Many criminology graduates find themselves researching, developing and applying crime policy in government, political and other contexts. This subject helps prepare students for such work. As well as providing an overview of factors shaping policy in Australia and other countries, it reviews challenges associated with making theory relevant in practical contexts. Emphasis is on exploring contemporary issues of public policy such as control of the sex industry, drug law reform, HIV policy, public drunkenness, multiculturalism and the interlinking themes of these public issues. The subject also draws on sociological, psychoanalytic and philosophical theory to help understand opportunities for, and obstacles to, the introduction or reform of public policy. Specific theorists used include Foucault, Zizek, Marx, Butler, Deleuze and poststructural feminist theory. These theorists are used to consider the philosophies that underpin rationales for deciding what is deserving of state intervention and comment as either public policy or criminalization.

On completion of this subject students should:

• understand political, economic, social and religious elements affecting crime policy in contemporary Australia;
• understand challenges associated with trying to apply coplex theory in policy contexts;
• be aware of contemporary debates concerning the modern state, social control and the role of criminal law and criminal justice;
• be able to analyse and discuss attempts within Australia to reform crime policies.

An essay of 2000 words (50%) due mid-semester, and a 2-hour examination (50%) scheduled during the examination period.

Hurdle Requirement: This subject has a minimum Hurdle Requirement of 75% tutorial attendance. Regular participation in tutorials is required.

Assessment submitted late without an approved extension will be penalised at 10% per working day. In-class tasks missed without approval will not be marked. All pieces of written work must be submitted to pass this subject.

A subject reader will be available for purchase from the University Bookshop

None

This subject is not available as a breadth subject.

On completion of this subject students should:

• have significant cognitive, analytical and problem-solving skills;
• understand complex concepts and express them lucidly in writing and orally;
• have advanced awareness of cultural, ethnic and gender diversities and their implications;
• have considerable capacity for independent critical thought and self-directed learning;
• have an ability to plan work and to use time effectively.