Departments – Postgraduate Digital Prospectus

Why I chose MA Museum and Artefact Studies

Elias Koenig on October 15, 2024

Why Durham’s course?

I chose Durham’s MA in Museum and Artefact Studies because of the ability to work with objects personally. Other courses from different universities I applied to were amazing, but there was a distinctiveness to Durham’s that stood out and drew me in.

Though many other universities have museum and cultural heritage programs, MA Museum and Artefact Studies at Durham is ingrained in archaeology rather than being solely interdisciplinary. Being a part of Durham’s archaeology department, students learn about museum management, collection principles, and debates within cultural heritage as well as how to analyze and handle artefacts.

The mixture of theory and practice is what sold Durham’s course over others.

I did something different in undergrad

Before I applied for this course, I was completing my bachelor’s at Durham in a totally separate department than my postgraduate course is in. I graduated in July 2024 with a joint honors degree in English Literature and History from Durham.

When I applied for my undergraduate course, I imagined myself going into publishing rather than doing a masters museum and artefact studies. I had always loved literature and history equally, but I had figured that a degree in both would allow me more opportunities later on. I’m grateful I did because during the length of my undergrad I realized that though I loved literature, my passions lied in history, and it was something I wanted to pursue further.

Why did I stay in Durham for postgrad?

As an international student, I sought to combat the homesickness (that a quick trip home for others provided solace to) by plunging myself into everything Durham offered. I joined a sport (shocking to my parents), societies, and made extensive use of the various public transportation options available in Durham. The activities I had become a part of and throwing myself into my course led to friendships that continued throughout the years while I made a habit of day trips to visit abbeys and monuments and hike in the countryside. If I was particularly restless, I hopped a bus to larger towns and cities.

Yet Durham always drew me back. I loved the River Wear that cut through the town, with its paths that ran alongside it. I loved the cathedral and castle, seeped in its own history. I loved the cafes and bookshops that students can always be found in. The environment of the collegiate system, always something going on.

Despite three years in Durham, by the time graduation rolled around I didn’t feel quite done with it. By the time masters applications rolled around, I knew I would apply to Durham’s museum and artefact studies course.

I seriously considered another university’s offer and though I loved the town where it resided, Durham’s course was more of what I was looking for. The breadth of knowledge offered by the course combined with its personal practices was exactly what I wanted in a masters course. Add to it the fact that I already wanted to stay in Durham? It was serendipitous.

What I hope the future holds

Despite the only thing changing being my department and course, I am trying to treat this next year as a new beginning. I plan to try new clubs and societies (while maintaining my old ones), continue my volunteering at the Auckland Project, and become immersed in my new department.

I am thrilled to start a placement in a museum during the length of the course, dive into a dissertation on a topic that fascinates me and get experience working hands on with artefacts. I hope after graduating with my master’s at Durham, to get a job working in a museum as a curator or archivist and continue my passion for historical preservation.

With the opportunities given by Durham’s Museum and Artefact Studies masters, alongside some hard work and motivation, I am certain that it can be achieved.

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How to get productive for the new academic year

Elias Koenig on October 7, 2024

If you find yourself clicking on (or hovering over) this blog, then you are already taking a positive step towards getting productive for the new academic year – so go you! September has officially begun and it’s that time again when the panic about how to motivate yourself to start the new academic year in a good way rises. In this blog, I want to share a few tips that have previously helped me to start the new year positively over my past 3 years studying at Durham.

Don’t neglect the academic diary!

Whether you prefer a paper book or an online version, academic diaries can be so helpful when it comes to organising and structuring your, likely very-busy, student schedule. I like to designate some time on a Sunday to pencil in the week’s commitments and colour code them. This makes it easy for me to stay on top of my priorities and visually see what I have going on each day. I personally like to do it on a Sunday because it means that I can start my week off more productively as a result.

Have a daily to-do-list

I always spend around 15 minutes in the morning writing out my to-do-list for the day and carrying out a somewhat ‘easier’ task first, one that doesn’t take too long to complete. This means that I can get something ticked off my list right away and the satisfaction of doing that is really rewarding.

Keep on top of cleaning

Cleaning my student accommodation is definitely my least favourite thing to do, but when you move out, keeping on top of cleaning is essential. A clear space equals a clear mind, which that is vital before you can even begin to think about being productive in other ways. As much as we are all guilty of letting mess fester over time before we are given no choice but to deal with it, designating slots each week to stay ahead of the game can be much better for your overall productivity.

Eat a balanced diet and meal prep (if you can)

Balancing your diet with nutritious meals will help you with your productivity. If you do have any extra time at the start of the week, I would recommend preparing some of your dinners in advance. In this way, you have one less thing to worry about on an evening and it also allows you to stay fuelled up for your studying! A win-win.

Give time to your hobbies and self care

As important as your studies are, your mental health and overall wellbeing should always be your top priority. Hobbies, self-care and sports are just some ways to look after yourself so that you can, in turn, look after your studies. Try to make time for those extra-curricular things that are important to you, rather than seeing them as a hinderance to your studies. A healthy balance can make you feel more energised and lead you to working better in the long run.

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The Kang-Glac project

Elias Koenig on September 25, 2024

This summer I joined a group of over 40 scientists and support staff on a scientific cruise aboard the RRS Sir David Attenborough to the shelf and fjords surrounding Kangerlussuaq fjord in south east Greenland. The 3 year project aims to gather data on modern day oceanography and primary productivity in Greenland’s coastal seas, and collect marine sediment cores alongside terrestrial rock samples to reconstruct past glacier thickness and extent.

I have been working with the marine sedimentology team collecting sediment cores of up to 10 m from the seafloor in the fjords and shelf sea surrounding the Kangerlussuaq area. Sediment is continuously being deposited on the seafloor, trapping a snapshot of the biological, geochemical and sedimentological condition at the time of deposition. We can use these signals preserved in this mud to work out how the oceans near Greenland have affected the ice sheets in the past, and in turn how fresh melt water from melting glaciers has changed the oceans and our climate.

Working on the ship

We work 12 hour shifts from 8 to 8 with people working 24 hours of the day. My team were on night shift from 8pm to 8am enjoying the arctic midnight sun and some beautiful sunsets and sunrises (sometimes only an hour apart).

We have three methods to collect sediment cores, the gravity and piston cores for longer records (up to 10 m) and the multicore to collect 12 50 cm cores at one time.

Gravity core being deployed by the ice front

Once on deck, the yellow plastic liner containing the sediment within the longer gravity and piston cores needs to be cut into more manageable 1 m sections. We use a core cutter which is a blade on a ring to slice the liner open, then cut through the mud with a cheese knife. We put a cap on each end then label the sections.

On nights when there are no coring deployments we would split open a core or two to log the sediment and take a few samples. This involves cutting lengthways along the liner before cutting through the sediment with cheese wire. This gives us an initial glimpse at the sediments that we have collected, and will help us to decide which cores are best suited for further analysis.

Once the core is open, we can sample for foraminifera (tiny shells from creatures that lived and died on the seafloor). We can identify and count the species of foraminifera under a microscope. Different species like to live in different water conditions, so we can use them to reconstruct relative changes to ocean conditions at the coring site through the Holocene.

SEM image of foraminifera Melonis Bareanus

Free time

There is a fantastic community feel while on the ship which was fuelled by the weekly quiz, knot tying lessons, some small gym clubs were formed, and even a chat for the sauna (if you wanted to dump a bucket of freezing seawater on yourself first!). A lot of our free time was spent either in the bar or the day room watching movies or playing Mario Kart. If we want some fresh air we can go to the helideck or observation deck to take some pictures and do some whale or polar bear spotting. We even had the time to make up some games in the labs.

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Why I chose to study Accounting

Elias Koenig on September 19, 2024

In this blog, I’d like to tell you a little more about my experience studying BSc Accounting at Durham.

When I applied to Durham, I initially enrolled on the BA Accounting and Finance programme. However, I was offered the BSc Accounting programme instead. At this point, I hadn’t looked into the pure Accounting programme, so I was a bit worried as I didn’t know much about the course or the modules. However, after looking into it a bit more, I discovered that this course was more suited to me. The pure Accounting programme offers students the opportunity to become chartered accountants quickly and easily, with some exams offering exemptions, meaning it will take less time to become a qualified accountant after graduation and fewer exams in the future!

About the course

One of the best things about the BSc Accounting course is the number of students within the course. This year, there were about 60 of us. However, the BA Accounting and Finance course has over 200 students. This means that the Accounting programme is much more personal, and all our modules take place in person. This is greatly advantageous because it means it’s easier to have a more personal and accessible relationship with lecturers and allows you to really get to know the people on your course and make some great friends!

The course doesn’t have many contact hours. I usually have about 12 hours a week due to the course being semesterised. This means that we only have three modules in the first term, then exams on those particular modules. The same thing happens in the second term. At first, I wasn’t sure how this would benefit me because all of my friends, studying different courses, didn’t have the same structure. However, the structure of this course is incredibly helpful and much easier in my opinion. Although it means the term is intense with content, you don’t have as many modules to learn at one time, and it means that you can focus on particular modules, and then have the exams whilst the content is still fresh in your mind.

What I enjoyed about the course

Within the Accounting programme, I particularly enjoy the tax modules. I know it seems to many people that this could be quite boring, but it’s so interesting to learn about all the different rules and regulations about what happens with our money. These modules aren’t just something that an accountant needs to know – everyone benefits in learning about what happens with their money and why. The great thing about Accounting modules is that you can apply them to everyday life. It’s not just something you leave in the classroom.

In my first year, I loved the ‘Skills for the Professional Accountant’ module. This programme was very interactive which allowed us a break in between the more stimulating modules. As part of this module, we had to prepare presentations and were given the opportunity to present in front of professional bodies. This gave us great experience for the future. We had to dress smartly and watch everyone else’s presentations (as seen in the photo above). I particularly enjoyed the fact that it isn’t always necessarily about essays and maths equations, but also about having the opportunity to work in groups and learn valuable skills that will benefit us in our future accounting careers.

Why choose this course?

If you choose to join the BSc Accounting programme at Durham, you’ll be able to significantly improve highly-anticipated skills, such as communication and presentation skills, have the opportunity to work with great, supportive professors, and get to delve more into the accounting world. You can also look forward to understanding the broad aspects of Accounting, many of which I didn’t know I’d be learning about. You have the chance to look more into the ethics of accounting, many business modules, law modules, and of course financial modules. It isn’t all just spreadsheets!

Department support

The support I have received so far at Durham from my lecturers has been outstanding – even compared to my friends on other courses. Because of the size of this particular course, it allows you to feel more comfortable with the professors and makes it much easier to be supported in many ways. The Accounting department is a great department to be part of, and I feel very lucky with all the help and support I have received so far and continue to receive throughout each term and within each module.

Extracurricular

There are vast numbers of extracurricular activities you can get involved in while you’re at Durham. These range from College sports and activities, University sports and activities and loads of other opportunities. University is so different from school and college. There may be days when you have no lectures or seminars and have some free time to get stuck into College and University life, along with any independent study. It’s also easy to find a part-time job if that’s what you’re looking for. I worked in a nightclub during my second year and loved every part of it – from socialising to earning some extra money!

I can recommend not only Durham University but also the BSc Accounting programme here. It is an excellent course to further enhance your accounting career, meet amazing people, make excellent connections, and obtain all the skills you will need for your future. I hope you consider furthering your education here at Durham University.

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A day in the life of an MA Education student at Durham

Elias Koenig on September 5, 2024

As I live in Newcastle, and commute to the university, I wake up a bit earlier than the rest of my classmates. I don’t mind the commute, as the walk from Durham Railway Station to the School of Education is beautiful, and it helps me get my steps in! In the early hours, when the city is still fairly empty, I really appreciate Durham’s beauty, and how lucky I am. I’ll make sure to pack a tea or coffee with me, to keep me warm on my walk. Sometimes I review my seminar notes on the train, just to feel extra prepared.

Morning: Lecture and study time

My first class of the day is a lecture for my core module, Design and Methods in Education. This module has really given me the confidence to prepare me for my dissertation, as all the examples and practices we speak about are highly relevant. It also helped me brushed up on some of my research design skills, that I haven’t used as much since my undergrad.

Once the lecture is over, I either see if there are any empty classrooms in the School of Education where I could work, or head to the Teaching & Learning Centre just across the road. I really like studying up on the top floor in the individual study pods… plus the hot water tap is another bonus. I’ll either do the seminar reading in preparation for my next class, or work on any assignments coming up.

Sometimes my friends and I stick together after the lecture and have a group study session. It’s always nice to speak to other people about the work you’re doing and share progress. Likewise, our lecturer is always happy to take any questions after the session, so it’s a nice opportunity to have a smaller group of people speaking to him.

Afternoon: Lunch and stroll

Once I met my goals and feel happy with the progress I made, I pack up my things. Depending on how I’m feeling, I sometimes get lunch from Zing Kitchen, located in the Teaching & Learning Centre. They serve hot meals, with some of the best jacket potatoes I’ve ever had. I also love the mac and cheese from there.

After lunch I’ll slowly head back to the station, but I often enjoy taking a longer route along the River Wear to clear my mind and disconnect. I find that after looking at a screen for too long, my brain gets fuzzy, so taking a moment to just enjoy the surrounding really helps.

Evening: Home and logging out

As I live in Newcastle, I will head back home around 4/5pm to unwind for the day and prepare myself for the next. I check my calendar to see what classes I may have the following day and make sure I have the right books ready to go. I prefer doing everything the night before and having more time to sleep in. I’ll open my laptop again to see if there are any emails/notifications, before logging out of “school mode” for the evening. I love cooking with my sister and just chatting to her about my day, what I did at uni, and how her day was.

I am very lucky, as Durham University allowed me to transfer half of my module credits from my PGCE towards my MA. Therefore, I don’t have to redo the credits that I completed last year. It definitely helps with the workload, and it allows me to work as a supply-teacher part-time. Regardless of this, the flexibility of the MA program lets me manage my time effectively, and I’m able to balance both my studies and personal life.

Final thoughts

I would suggest you definitely get into a routine and try to stick to it. It is so rewarding seeing the progress you make into your studies, but like they say, nothing good comes too easy! Make sure you follow your schedule, connect with your peers and teachers, and most of all, enjoy it all!

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Connections, Connections, Connections! My Experience of Studying History at Durham University

Elias Koenig on August 29, 2024

Throughout my time studying History here at Durham, I’ve felt privileged to be able to engage with a multitude of vast, intertwining, and – often unassuming – connections centred on exchanges of people, objects, and ideas. In both my BA and MA programmes, I’ve appreciated global historical topics at every turn, whether tracking the nuanced developments of prestigious heraldry across late medieval England, France, and the Low Countries, or uncovering the international contexts of historical events like the Boxer War in late-Qing China. I’ve scrutinised sources on early modern Europe’s ‘Little Ice Age’ and climate change, and I’ve explored the scholarly wilderness surrounding Africa’s wildlife conservation and its problematic nineteenth-century origins.

Stretching my thinking

Both programmes, but especially my MA, have encouraged me to stretch my thinking, connecting topical, historical themes to present-day, fruitful discussions in my seminars and coursework. Weaving together a myriad historical periods, actors and geographies, I’ve tremendously enjoyed studying History at Durham –analysing the origins of phenomena from deadly diseases to Dutch delftware and tracing their subsequent historical journeys from one location to the next.

So, what’s special about studying global history at Durham?

The History Department

The Oriental Museum

Firstly, the Oriental Museum, on the university’s doorstep, has provided me the opportunity to study a wealth of visual and material culture from pith paintings to astronomical apparatus, and other institutions such as the Institute of Medieval and Early Modern Studies have organised fascinating events for history students.

The Oriental Museum

Taking the lead

Moreover, I’ve consistently pushed myself to participate in the teaching and learning of global historical topics, from organising my own group-led seminar discussion of Sam Selvon’s The Lonely Londoners and the Windrush Scandal as part of Durham University’s Decolonising History Initiative in 2022, to assisting in the smooth running of panel discussions on complex circuits of medicines, missionaries, and migrants within the Asian Connections Workshop in my final term.

Image of participants of the Asian Connections Workshop

Asian Connections: Flows of People, Medicines, Ideas, and Practices’, a workshop organized by the Durham University ‘Thinking East Asia’ Research Group.

Wide variety of topics and modules to choose from

These many enriching opportunities have been invaluable, supplementing my core learning and skills, and encouraging me to be independent and original in my thought and study. I’ve also always sought to take advantage of the History Department’s excellent teaching and expert insights by selecting an array of global topics, ranging from modules which covered the histories of British-occupied Myanmar and Weimar Germany, to modules which specifically brought separate, fascinating stories of different places and peoples together…

For example, in the final year of my BA, I studied the Mughal Empire and the Qing Dynasty respectively within a single module, Empires and States in Early Modern Asia, which allowed me to discover a variety of state-building techniques from mobile courts to imperial gardens to complex, authoritative genealogies. I developed my analytical skills most strongly through contrasting how Inner Asian legacies, post-Mongol Empire, manifested in India and China, dissecting Asian rulers’ imperial authority, political organisation, and multi-faceted identities. Not only did this allow me to appreciate the histories of both empires, but it enabled me to naturally access wider historical debates, a skill I’ve found indispensable at MA level.

Some of the text books I have used during my studies

Learning more about the world

More recently, The City in History MA module has enabled me to walk the streets of classical Constantinople, late medieval London, early modern Delhi, and colonial Khartoum, drawing comparative points between human experiences within urban history. Placing one construction – the city – in a global framework has likewise enriched my experience of studying different themes such as gender, state ritual, and ideology by evaluating multiple historical viewpoints and intersecting with an array of historiographical, sociological, and anthropological approaches.

Ancient map of Paris

Critical engagement with historical sources

Through studying the MA core module, Themes, Readings and Sources, I was able to further delve into wider historiographical questions such as archives’ nature and purpose for historians from the nineteenth century to present-day, discussing a variety of primary sources such as oral testimonies following the British Empire’s atrocities in Kenya in the 1950s. Adopting a global lens enabled me to analyse European, African, and Asian archives’ own subjective inclusions and omissions, explaining missing subaltern voices and more deeply interrogating why and how historical evidence is recorded. In summary, my History MA – especially looking to my modules with a global perspective – has fuelled and rewarded my critical engagement with all historical sources, schools, and scholars.

I have thoroughly enjoyed studying my History BA and MA here at Durham University and will continue thinking about the connections between global historical themes, events, and perspectives as I move forward into the next chapter of my life.

Me at my graduation

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A day in the life of a philosophy and theology student

Elias Koenig on July 24, 2024

If you’re reading this, then it’s possible that you’re considering studying Philosophy and Theology at Durham! I hope that this ‘day in the life’ can help paint a picture of what your life could look like this time next year!

A typical day

On a normal day, I would have around 2-3 ‘contact’ hours (whereby I attend in-person lectures and seminars). Thus, my day begins with a Picnic Basket coffee (the absolute best coffee place, in my humble opinion), and a scenic walk either through the city centre or along the river to my classes.

Doing a joint honours degree means that your time will be split across two departments. This allows you to become well acquainted with lots of beautiful study spaces in Durham. For me, most of my theology classes take place around Palace Green, whereas my philosophy classes will occur around Elvet Riverside. It is wonderful to be able to experience so many facets of the teaching in Durham as a result of being split across departments.

After completing my in-person teaching for the day, I will use the rest of my day to plough through my to-do list – the contents of which vary. It usually entails some seminar preparation for the rest of the week (reading and preparing questions), as well as getting ahead of any formative/summative essays! This could involve reading, planning, or drafting, depending on where I’m at! My favourite place to carry out these tasks is the Student Union building on New Elvet. It’s a wonderfully relaxed environment, which best facilitates productivity for me the environment encourages collaborative work which is perfect for discussing ideas.

Tailoring your degree to you

You will notice that much of this ‘day in the life’ is somewhat vague insofar as the logistics of the course are concerned. This is because a joint honours degree will look different for everybody! I have chosen modules which focus heavily on the intersection between philosophy and theology, with a specific focus on ethical studies. Many of my peers have opted for modules which instead focus on the more sociological elements of religion. Some people prefer the more hypothetical metaphysics. The modules you choose will ultimately shape the experiences you have in the department – this is absolutely my favourite thing about studying this degree. My experience is totally unique to me, just as yours will be to you.

Evenings as a philosophy and theology student

Being given the opportunity for independent work during the daytime means that it is incredibly feasible to keep evenings totally free from work! I love to use my evenings to see friends, visit the theatre in Newcastle, cook yummy food, engage in various societies, and speak to my family and friends on FaceTime. Having my evenings free is super important to me, and I love that the flexibility of my degree allows this!

Concluding

There you have it! A typical day in my life as a philosophy and theology student here at Durham. I hope that this little insight painted a clear picture for you – a picture of pretty study spots, interesting lectures, and lots of flexibility!

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My journey with RSACC: Reflections on empowering marginalised women

Elias Koenig on July 22, 2024

The most impactful experience of my 4 years at Durham university has been my Postgraduate Placement at the Centre for Research into Violence and Abuse (CRiVA). I worked with a specialist service known as the Rape and Sexual Abuse Counseling Centre (RSACC) to review their outreach strategies and suggest improvements to better serve marginalsied women. It involved analysing demographic data and annual reports, comparing it with census reports from Durham and Darlington, and examining the practices of similar counselling centres both in the UK and the US. My goal was to contribute meaningfully to their mission of supporting survivors of sexual violence, particularly those from marginalized communities. Reflecting on my journey now, I realise how transformative this experience has been, both professionally and personally.

During my research, I reviewed the media and website pages of several counselling services and was really impressed by their innovative efforts to help women of colour seeking refuge from abuse. RSASS Bradford stood out with its dedication to accessibility for women with disabilities. Their website had dictionaries to explain technical terms, making it easier for everyone, regardless of their educational background, to engage with their content. This approach to inclusivity ensured that no one felt excluded because of language barriers or complex phrases. R.A.I.N.N in the US was another standout. Their social media was a model of how to engage with diverse audiences. They tailored content specifically to their target demographics, using the languages spoken by their audiences. This eliminated the need for translators and made their resources immediately accessible. Discovering innovative strategies and successful practices from organisations filled me with excitement. I was inspired by the idea of bringing these concepts to RSACC to enhance its outreach and support services. It was invigorating to see tangible examples of how other centres effectively addressed the needs of marginalised women.

One of the most positive experiences was the reception I got from my supervisors, Nicole Westmarland and Alice Nah, and the staff at RSACC. Initially, I felt a mix of excitement and apprehension, but as I got deeper into my tasks and received their support and encouragement, my confidence grew. It reaffirmed my belief that meaningful change is possible and that with the right strategies, RSACC could significantly improve its services and reach more women in need. This sense of hope was a powerful driving force throughout my research process.

Overall, I felt a deep sense of admiration and respect for organisations like the RSACC that strive to implement thoughtful and comprehensive practices. Their commitment to inclusivity, accessibility, and diversity was evident in their reception of my work and I take pride in being a part of this process.

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Studying for an MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice

Elias Koenig on July 18, 2024

About me

I studied professional policing at Teesside University from 2020-2023 where I graduated with a BSc first class honours degree. Once I was midway thorough second year, I started to get very passionate about research and knew that my next step would be postgraduate study. One evening in April 2023 whilst conducting research for my undergraduate dissertation I found the MSc Criminology and Criminal Justice course on the Durham University website and applied just to see what would happen. That evening, I dared to dream. Two months later whilst we were celebrating my sisters birthday I got an email and my heart skipped a beat when I saw the words “Congratulations Jagraj” and even though they say big boys don’t cry, that day I did because my dream had become a reality.

Increased Intensity

When I started my first week at Durham University it quickly became clear that the transition from undergraduate to postgraduate was going to be challenging as I was required to do more reading and preparatory activities. Creating a daily home timetable assisted me as it ensured that I had completed the set tasks prior to the lecture which was beneficial as it meant that I was not walking into the lecture in the unknown. Eventually I started making friends which has enhanced my learning experience because having classroom discussions has allowed my lens to widen as I get to acknowledge other people’s perspectives and challenge my own beliefs.

Core Module: Criminology, Theory and Critical Issues

Initially, I had feelings of trepidation when I heard that this core module would be studied in both term one and term two as I had never studied criminology previously, I was aware that the subject is ladened with theory. But this module was well balanced as we learnt about theory which was quite fun as it showed me how criminologists have divergent views on crime which makes criminology interesting as there is a plethora of debates and themes within the discipline. This module provided ample opportunity for guest lecturers from other universities and organisations to come and give us a talk which allowed me to draw connections between theory and the wider criminal justice system.

Placement

As on this course students are given the choice to select some of their modules, I chose the placement module as I felt it would add variety to the methods of learning I receive at Durham University and allow me to obtain valuable work experience. I undertook the placement at Young People’s Engagement and Justice Service in Darlington over four weeks from February 2024 – March 2024. On this placement I shadowed members of staff to enhance my understanding of youth justice. Over the four weeks I completed the following activities:

Co-supervising youths conducting reparation activities
Meeting the NGO’s involved with youth justice
Observing youth cautions
Observing interviews with youth offenders
Carrying out school interventions
Assisting with youth offenders case work
Attending youth court hearings.

My advice to anybody considering studying this course

If you are interested in any aspect of the criminal justice system this course is certainly for you, as you get a variety on the course which makes it so refreshing. It is well known that postgraduate study is not challenge free as at times it becomes relentless but if you keep your foot on the accelerator and keep focussed you will receive the award of a MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice from this prestigious university which will open many more pathways in academia.

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My experience as a visiting PhD scholar

Elias Koenig on July 9, 2024

I am Nara Bueno, a Brazilian researcher from University of Goiás (UFG) and I went to Durham University as a short term PhD researcher (for 6 months). I chose Durham for many reasons, the first one was the warm contact that I had with my professor and advisor and the ease of obtaining information and guidance from the university staff. I also had the opportunity to be supervised by a professor, researcher and activist in Human Rights that I greatly admire, Professor Doctor Alice Nah, that I met previously in a Congress at my University. The other reason is because it is a renowned university worldwide, is highly recognized internationally for its research environment and has a good structure and study spaces.

The Department of Sociology, to which I was accepted, offers constant academic qualification and interaction between students, which allowed me to enjoy the best of both worlds: developing tools and knowledge that enriched the research, but also the formation of connections among students, teachers and researchers from all over the world. This interaction allows an interdisciplinary approach which, for me, was important, as it stimulates the expansion of the scientific perspective, as well as innovation and creativity in my work.

Ustinov College for postgraduate students

I was allocated at Ustinov College, exclusively for postgraduate students. The motto of Ustinovians is Strength through diversity. And I could experience exactly these words, because they offer activities curricular and extracurricular that allowed me to learn different points of view such as meeting colleagues from many countries and various areas of knowledge and attending academic discussions at the Seminar Room. The physical structure is amazing (such as the library, classrooms and places to study), the University also uses a software that helps a lot with the appointments (Inkpath). I loved the experience of attending the workshops, since the themes of analysis of the data, until the poetic thinking. Everything was amazing! The only thing that I suggest to change is the policy of access to the university email and other platforms, because after my short time was up, I could not have access anymore.

I highly recommend this experience! I feel like I am returning to my home university with more scientific maturity to research and connected with so many incredible people that also finds the whole world is a big community, full of multicultural beauty.

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