This module begins with an introduction to what is social work and what is crime. It then addresses contemporary thought on crime and punishment and includes an overview of the social services, social work interventions and justice systems responses to crime in Ireland. The module draws on a range of empirical data, psychological and sociological theory and practice experience to consider the parameters of crime in Ireland in an international context. The module is designed in such a way as to create an opportunity for critical engagement with the course material. The didactic lecture format is interspersed with guest lectures, given by a number of experienced practitioners currently providing social services within the criminal justice system in Ireland. Course content includes the criminal justice system in context; crime and perception; the offender; victims of crime; punishment; formal systems of justice; youth crime; restorative justice; desistance and penal policy