Postgraduate – Page 2 – Postgraduate Digital Prospectus

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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Forbes Africa 30 under 30 honoree

Elias Koenig on May 31, 2024

Tell us about your work

I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been selected for the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 Class of 2024. This recognition symbolizes a milestone in my journey toward sustainable development, highlighting the dedication, resilience, and enthusiasm that have guided me.

At the core of my mission lies the goal of providing clean energy to underserved communities in Sierra Leone. I established Optim Energy, a forward-thinking startup that initially focused on utilizing piezoelectric devices to capture energy from the surroundings. Recently we’ve shifted our focus to implementing mini-grids with the aim of offering renewable energy solutions to off-grid communities enabling them to move from energy poverty towards sustainability.

How did the MSc in Sustainability, Energy, and Development programme help you get to where you are today?

My educational experience at Durham University as a Commonwealth Shared Scholar in the MSc Sustainability, Energy, and Development program was transformative. The program offered a comprehensive understanding of global challenges like climate change and inequality while stressing the value of local and indigenous knowledge. The interdisciplinary approach and top-notch research opportunities sharpened my skills and problem-solving abilities, significantly shaping my path.

Tell us about the award you won for a device you invented at Durham

During my time studying in the Department of Anthropology, I continued to refine a device I designed to generate energy which earned me a prestigious Inaugural Global Student Prize. I worked with a list of professors from the Department of Anthropology and Energy Institute to apply for and won the Seedcorn Grant to continue working on my solution.

The assistance I received from Durham University, the Department of Anthropology, the Durham Venture School, and the collaborative atmosphere enabled me to expand the horizons of my research. This resulted in the development of a solution to address energy scarcity. After refining my research, I pivoted to utilizing a mini-grid and implemented it within my local communities in Sierra Leone creating a significant impact.

Why are you so passionate about energy, climate change and sustainability?

My rooted passion for energy, climate change, and sustainability stems from my childhood experiences in Sierra Leone. Growing up in a displacement camp, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impacts of energy poverty and climate change. These experiences sparked a desire to seek solutions to enhance living conditions and safeguard the environment motivating me to establish Optim Energy and pursue further educational and research endeavors.

How does your work positively impact communities / the world around you?

Optim Energy’s ability to access energy has enhanced living standards, improved educational opportunities, and promoted socio-economic development. Our initiatives align with the Sustainable Development Goals such as affordable and clean energy, quality education, and climate action. By empowering communities with skills and educating them about climate issues, we enable them to utilize energy access to enhance their socio-status through entrepreneurship while realizing the social value of energy.

What advice would you give to a student thinking of studying in the Department of Anthropology at Durham?

I wholeheartedly recommend it. The interdisciplinary approach, supportive faculty and staff, and real-world impact opportunities make it an exceptional place to learn and grow. It is an enabling environment that enables you to engage deeply with the material, seek collaborative opportunities, and let your passion drive you. The skills and knowledge you gain will be invaluable in any path you choose.

Being named to the Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 is a remarkable honor, but it is just one step in my ongoing journey to make a difference in whatever I do. I am grateful for the world-class education and support I have received and am excited to continue working towards a sustainable future for all, ensuring no one is left behind. Thank you for reading, and I hope my story inspires you to pursue your passions and positively impact the world.

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Studying MSc Criminology at Durham as an international student

Elias Koenig on May 17, 2024

I did my undergraduate in law back in India, and criminology was one of the subjects I found most interesting, which is why I chose to do an MSc in Criminology and Criminal Justice. I chose Durham University because it was one of the best universities for criminology in the UK. Also, what interested me was the way the course and specific modules were structured.

A change of pace

Although I was initially uneasy moving from a big city to a tiny, quiet town like Durham, I now find a change of pace to be quite lovely. Since then, I’ve grown to like taking leisurely strolls to and from classes while simply taking in the scenery which is also a bit refreshing. I was halfway through my first term when I finally got used to being on my own, acclimated to the temperature, and started interacting with people.

A different academic system

I found it a bit tough to adjust to the academic system at first because it is completely different. Here, we don’t have lectures every single day, and the lectures are also more like group discussions, where everyone is open to all sorts of opinions. This made me feel a bit confident in expressing my opinions in front of my peers.

The amount of reading that needed to be done was a bit daunting at first because, during my undergrad, my assessments were completely based on exams, and we didn’t have a dissertation. But here, you need to read articles and journals and provide critiques and arguments for them. I feel this let me delve much deeper into every topic that we studied.

The department

I feel the Sociology department has been very welcoming and supportive of the students, especially international students. They hold an informal social meeting every term where they check up on us and ask us about our experiences. They also make sure we tell them if there is anything they could do for us that they aren’t aware of so we can get the most out of our degree. One of the best aspects of the degree is that the professors are always willing to mentor and assist us, whether it be academically or otherwise.

My favourite modules

The most interesting modules for me were the placement module and the Prisons, Crime and Justice module. As a part of the placement module, I get to volunteer as a mentor at the Durham Police and Crime Commissioners Office, which I feel gives me a good experience of what it’s like working with people and has also allowed me to make connections in my field. As a part of the Prisons, Crime and Justice module we had a workshop where we held group discussions with the prisoners at HMP Durham. I feel like this would be one of my most memorable experiences during my degree. This module was also a part of why I chose Durham for my master’s program.

College

Being an introvert, the collegiate system here gave me a chance to attend formal dinners and get to know people outside of my academics, making my social life a bit richer. Being away from my parents for the first time was not easy, but my college and the Student Union held a lot of cultural events for international students like me, which made me feel a little less homesick during festivals. Durham has provided me with a positive academic and social experience that I will always cherish.

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