New education planned ‑ will combine criminology with psychology
The need for qualified knowledge about why crimes occur, how they can be prevented and how society can best act is growing. Against this background, Mid Sweden University has taken important steps towards developing a new campus-based bachelor´s programme in criminology and psychology in Östersund.
"Crime and insecurity are issues that engage many people, from individual citizens to authorities and decision-makers. Last year, a feasibility study was therefore carried out with the aim of investigating the conditions for a new bachelor's programme. The conclusions have been presented to the university management and we have now reached the next step," says Pär Olausson, Dean of the Faculty of Human Sciences.
The feasibility study, conducted by Teresa Silva, Associate Professor of Criminology, points to the possibility of creating a program with a clear and unique profile where criminology is combined with psychology.
"The plan is to develop a training programme where professionals are trained to work at different levels in crime prevention and crime management using an evidence-based approach. Our main focus is to develop a high-quality program that educates professionals with skills that are in high demand in the labor market, not only in Sweden but also internationally," says Teresa Silva, Associate Professor of Criminology.
The Departments of Humanities and Social Sciences, as well as Education, Psychology and Social Work, have jointly expressed a strong desire to move forward and have therefore appointed a working group. The goal is to develop a programme syllabus for a three-year programme of 180 credits, with a possible start in the autumn semester of 2027 or the spring semester of 2028 and with room for 40 students.
"Our existing programmes and courses in criminology and psychology already have a high number of applicants, and a new programme can fulfil several important functions. It can contribute to the supply of skills in the region, for example in the judicial system, social work and preventive activities. At the same time, it can attract students from all over the country and thus strengthen Östersund's role as a campus location," says Pär Olausson.
Contact person:
Pär Olausson, Dean of the Faculty of Human Sciences, 010-142 85 47, par.olausson@miun.se
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