Department of Criminology

Curious about crime and justice?

Criminology at Saint Mary’s University explores why crime occurs, how society defines and responds to it, and how we can build safer and more just communities. In this program, you’ll engage with real-world issues and practical solutions while examining key theories, research, and debates. You will develop a strong understanding of criminal behaviour, the social construction of crime, and the policies and politics that shape the criminal justice system.

Our experts are active, community-engaged researchers studying subjects such as:

• Crime and Inequality: Gender-based and sexual violence, LGBTIQ2S+ violence, race and justice, queer criminology, mental health and the law
• Law and Justice: Crime prevention, policing and surveillance, restorative and transformative justice, race and culture assessments
• Crime in a Global and Digital Era: Organized and transnational crime, terrorism and radicalization, cybercrime, technology-facilitated sexual violence

Where can this degree take you?

The specialized knowledge and advanced skills you’ll develop the Criminology program are highly valued by employers and directly transferable to careers in:

• Public service, government, and policy analysis
• Policing, corrections, and border services
• Community development and social work
• Law, advocacy, and social justice
• Research, evaluation, and project management

If you want to expand your perspective on crime and justice, and contribute to safer and more equitable communities — Criminology at SMU is the place to start.