Evelyn Eggleston

I studied criminology and really enjoyed the fact that no matter the unit, there were always lots of choices in terms of essay topics and breadth of study.

We had lots of scope to direct our own learning and follow our own interests while also being supported by staff, which meant that, for me, I learned more and enjoyed it as well.

All the lecturers had their own unique way of teaching and a wealth of real-world experience which meant that they could tell or show us how the theories we covered worked in practice. This meant that when it came to finding a job after graduating, I had a better understanding of challenges in the real world and how to tackle them.

We were also encouraged to find work experience and get exposure to the concepts we studied, which was invaluable in getting a job later on. Practical knowledge and experience is essential, and all the lecturers had links to industries which meant that students had access to tailored interview tips, an advantage when it came to contacting professionals for dissertation research and a broad range of trips – for example, to America – and guest lecturers (both ex-offenders and officials).

Overall, Solent University and individual staff on the criminology course were supportive and invested in the students’ success. Lecturers were friendly, down-to-earth and willing to go the extra mile to make units engaging and practical.