A hands-on course in criminology

Updated on: Monday, December 28, 2009

Here is a course that will equip you to tackle the increasingly multi-tasking engagement that urban policing has become.

JHA Agarsen College, an affiliate of University of Madras, has launched a B.A. Criminology and Police Administration course.

The semester-based programme will cover principles of criminology and criminal law, document examination, psychology, vigilance and security management, cyber crimes, guidance and counselling, crowd control and riot management and private detective and investigation.

“What makes the course unique is the emphasis on the practical component,” said P. Madhava Somasundaram, Professor and Head, Department of Criminology, Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli, who played the key role in drafting the syllabus.

The syllabus, which sought to blend indoor (theory) and outdoor (practical) components, would help graduates joining the police ranks to be equipped to tackle the growing complexity of crime. Hands-on experience will be provided to students through visits to the police station, the magistrate's court, fire station, crime records bureau, forensic laboratory and central jail.

Physical skills will be honed through fitness regimen and training in unarmed combat and karate lessons.

Elements of yoga and transcendental meditation are included keeping in view the stressful and extended rosters of the constabulary.

And, the job openings for graduates are not confined to the constabulary. Director General of Police K. P. Jain says the scope for managerial jobs would increase with private security agencies turning professional to fall in line with the Private Security Agencies Regulation Bill notified by the Centre three years ago.

And, going by the intent of the vice-chancellor of the University of Madras, G. Thiruvasagam, there could be more innovative courses that are need-based and have job potential.

A hands-on course in criminology

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