Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Security Studies

The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Security Studies aims to equip students with a robust understanding of crime causation, criminal justice processes, and security management. The programme focuses on the interdisciplinary nature of criminology and security, incorporating elements from sociology, psychology, law, and public administration. This multidisciplinary approach is essential for developing a holistic understanding of crime and effective security strategies.

The establishment of a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Security Studies is driven by several critical needs. Firstly, there is a significant gap in the availability of specialized education and training in criminology and security within Zambia. Currently, most academic institutions offer only limited courses or short-term training programmes in these fields, insufficient to meet the growing demand for well-trained professionals.

Secondly, the dynamic and evolving nature of crime and security threats requires a workforce that is not only knowledgeable but also adaptable and capable of developing innovative solutions. This programme is designed to provide students with both theoretical foundations and practical skills, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle contemporary security challenges. Moreover, the programme responds to the increasing demand for criminology and security professionals in various sectors, including law enforcement agencies, private security firms, government ministries, and non-governmental organizations. Graduates of this programme will possess the necessary skills to conduct criminal investigations, develop and implement security policies, and contribute to national and regional security efforts.

Lastly, the Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Security Studies aligns with national development goals and international security standards. By producing graduates who are well-versed in criminological theories and security practices, the programme supports Zambia’s efforts to enhance public safety, reduce crime rates, and promote social justice.

The aim of the Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Security Studies programme is to produce graduates who will be competent to work efficiently and effectively in various crime prevention, security management, and criminal justice roles. Graduates of this programme should be able to competently handle tasks related to criminology and security. The programme also aims to equip students with skills to critically examine 'crime' and 'deviance' and the processes through which the criminal justice system responds to these phenomena. More so, the programme aims to provide with students with knowledge and understanding of the nature of threats to security, how states seek to manage and neutralise those threats, and how security is situated within the wider theory and practice of international politics. Other aims include:

1. Equip students with knowledge and skills in criminology and security studies.
2. Equip students with knowledge and skills in the modeling, design, and development of security strategies.
3. Render students competent in criminal investigation and forensic science techniques.
4. Equip students with knowledge of criminal law and human rights.
5. Enable students to apply analytical knowledge and skills in crime prevention and security management.
6. Enable students to conduct security assessments and make informed decisions regarding security measures.
7. Equip students with skills in information management and technology for use in criminology and security projects.
8. Equip students with knowledge and skills related to national security policies and their implications for security work.

At this level of qualification (ZQF level: 7), the graduate will be expected to:

a) Knowledge and Understanding

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the central issues of criminology and security
• Discuss key aspects pertaining to criminology and security studies.
• Articulate processes involved in designing, developing, and implementing security strategies.
• Analyse the principles and provisions set out in the country’s national security policy.
• Articulate the processes involved in community engagement for crime prevention.
• Explain the rights and freedoms of individuals within the criminal justice system.
• Analyse the theories underlying criminology and security practices.
• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of current research within criminology and security studies;
• Identify and interpret the relationship between social, economic, political and cultural conditions and crime and security;

b) Intellectual Skills (Cognitive and Creative Skills)

• Provide evidence-based solutions and arguments within the field of criminology and security.
• Develop appropriate solutions to resolve crime and security issues at different levels in society.

c) Subject Specific Skills (Professional Skills)

• Apply analytical skills and knowledge to establish security management programmes.
• Conduct crime and security needs assessments.
• Design crime prevention and security strategies.
• Evaluate crime prevention and security projects.
• Apply practical skills for crime prevention and management, security and intelligence management; and

• Design and employ mechanisms/strategies for promoting peace and security.

d) Reflexive Skills

• Identify problems in the field of criminology and security and generate solutions that could mitigate threats.

e) Transferable Skills

• Transfer criminology and security knowledge, skills, and values to various professional settings.
• Conduct research to solve problems in the field of criminology and security.
• Use ICT skills to facilitate criminology and security activities and programmes.