One of the things that drew me to the University of Glasgow was the emphasis on research. During my undergraduate studies in the U.S., I took a keen interest in quantitative research specifically. While the university here does have opportunities for quantitative research, I was really interested in developing my understanding of qualitative research methods. Given that my programme at the university is situated within the School of Social & Political Sciences, there is a heavy focus on sociological approaches and qualitative research methods. While this sociological and qualitative approach to research is somewhat new to me, it was extemely important to me to challenge myself and expand my research knowledge. 

The MSc Criminology & Criminal Justice programme is closely associated with the Scottish Centre for Crime & Justice Research (SCCJR). The SCCJR is a collaborative research environment between several universities and organizations within Scotland. Several of the lecturers in the MSc Criminology & Criminal Justice programme are involved with SCCJR in various capacities. The programme coordinator and lecturers are very good at distributing opportunities to participate in conferences and research. They will normally send emails or post on Moodle forums with various opportunities to attend conferences either in-person or online. I was able to attend a conference in Edinburgh in October 2024 which was informative and great for networking within my programme and the community. I have also attended several interesting webinars throughout the year that I found to be helpful in narrowing interests for dissertation topics. 

In addition to providing ample opportunities for learning and reflecting on local and international research projects, the MSc Criminology & Criminal Justice programme launched a research practice hub this year. The practice hub was introduced by a few of the lecturers within the programme and started as informal meetings to explore interests and available projects. During these initial meetings, lecturers explained their current research projects and areas in which they were looking for potential assistance. My classmates and I registered our interest in particular projects and from there small groups were formed. In our individual project groups, we met with the lecturer and discussed the project and available tasks more in-depth. Tasks were eventually divided amongst individuals in the group, but the project has remained extremely collaborative. Additional projects have emerged within the original project that have morphed and expanded as the year progresses.

My experience in the research practice hub has been extremely positive. I have learned so much and have been able to take an active role in the process. We have been able to correspond via email, as well as set up semi-regular meetings over Zoom or in-person at Ivy Lodge. A few of my classmates are involved in more than one project in some capacity. The practice hub is structured to be flexible and allows for involvement around class, assessments, and other responsibilities. I have participated during times when I had more availability in my schedule and pulled back when things got busy. The research environment is very supportive and educational which allows us to explore our interests while gaining practical experience. The practice hub has allowed for increased familiarity within my programme. I have formed great working relationships with my classmates and lecturers through this experience.

I was extremely lucky that the practice hub launched this year within my programme and has provided me with such great opportunities for additional learning and practical experience. I am also grateful for the number of conferences and webinars which have allowed me to explore and expand my research interests as well as provide me with networking opportunities. Research and networking opportunities were very important to me in addition to the programme itself and the University of Glasgow provides a wealth of amazing ways to get involved and obtain practical experience!

 

First published: 23 April 2025

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