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This short course introduces learners to the structures, operations, and impacts of organized crime and gangs in local and global contexts. Participants will examine the history, motives, and activities of criminal organizations—including drug trafficking, human trafficking, and money laundering—while exploring the social, political, and economic conditions that enable their growth. Through real-world case studies and discussion of law enforcement strategies, learners will gain a foundational understanding of how organized crime functions and how societies attempt to respond.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, learners will be able to:

1.    Describe the historical evolution and defining features of organized crime and gang culture.
2.    Identify key criminal activities and explain how they sustain organized crime networks.
3.    Analyse the social, economic, and political drivers behind gang formation and persistence.
4.    Discuss the global reach and transnational operations of major criminal organisations.
5.    Evaluate the strategies and challenges faced by law enforcement and policy makers.
6.    Reflect on the impact of organized crime on communities and contemporary society.

Week 1: Introduction to Organized Crime and Gangs

Topics Covered

•    What is “organized crime”? What is a “gang”?
•    Historical evolution of major organized crime groups
•    Cultural myths vs. realities
•    Introduction to local and global contexts

Week 2: Illicit Economies — Drug Trafficking, Human Trafficking, Money Laundering

Topics Covered:

•    Structure of illicit markets
•    Drug trade networks and their social impact
•    Human trafficking: push/pull factors and victim vulnerabilities
•    Money laundering methods & why financial crime matters

Week 3: Why Gangs Form — Social, Economic, and Political Factors

Topics Covered:

•    Poverty, social exclusion, and marginalisation
•    Youth recruitment and gang identity
•    Family, community, and peer dynamics
•    Political corruption and weak institutions

Week 4: Global Operations & Law Enforcement Challenges

Topics Covered:

•    Transnational crime networks
•    Digital crime and modern technology
•    Police, intelligence, and international cooperation
•    Why it’s so difficult to dismantle organized crime
•    Approaches beyond enforcement: education, prevention, rehabilitation

Location

����VR��Ƶ Lecture Room 3 (LR3) ����VR��Ƶ Main Arts Building

Course Dates

04/02/2026 – 25/02/2026

Target Audience

•    Adult learners with an interest in criminology, sociology, politics, policing, or community studies
•    Professionals seeking foundational understanding (education, youth work, social care)
•    Community members wanting to understand gang issues affecting society

Please register your interest below and we will be in touch with further information.