This course aims at introducing key theoretical perspectives that have been used throughout history to explain patterns of crime, deviance and control in society. The module will explore how criminological theories inform criminal justice policy and practice. The course will ask questions such as: Is crime caused by biological, psychological or sociological factors? Do offenders choose to commit crime or are they led into offending by forces beyond their control? Are some individuals and acts more likely to be criminalised than others because of: age, gender, sexuality and race? This module seeks to answer these questions, and provides students with the opportunity to develop a critical understanding of the most important theories which have sought to explain the causes of crime. The module will begin to explore their contribution to criminological knowledge and identifies their implications for crime policy. It aims, therefore, to situate theories in contemporary debates and controversies and allows students to begin to utilize theoretical insights in their criminological work.