Sociology — Criminology

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sociology – Criminology program at the University of Manitoba offers students a comprehensive exploration of the social factors that influence crime, criminal behavior, and the criminal justice system. This interdisciplinary program combines theories and methods from sociology, psychology, law, and public policy to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of criminological issues in contemporary society. Students will examine topics such as the sociological foundations of crime, criminal law and justice, the role of law enforcement agencies, juvenile justice, victimology, and the social impact of crime. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and practical application, preparing graduates for careers in law enforcement, social services, policy analysis, research, and further academic pursuits.

Throughout their studies, students will have opportunities to engage in hands-on learning experiences, including research projects, volunteer work, and internships with community organizations and criminal justice agencies. The curriculum is designed to foster analytical abilities and ethical considerations essential for addressing complex criminal justice issues. Faculty members are experts in their fields, and students benefit from small class sizes, personalized mentorship, and cutting-edge research that reflects current trends and challenges in criminology and sociology.

The program also encourages students to develop a global perspective on crime and justice, considering social inequalities, cultural diversity, and human rights. By integrating theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, the Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Sociology – Criminology equips graduates with the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to society and pursue varied career opportunities or advanced studies in law, social work, criminal justice, and related fields. With a rich academic environment and strong community ties, the University of Manitoba prepares students to become informed, ethical, and effective professionals in the criminal justice sector and beyond.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology at the University of Manitoba offers students a comprehensive understanding of the social structures, institutions, and processes that influence criminal behavior and the criminal justice system. The program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills, research capabilities, and a nuanced perspective on crime, deviance, and societal responses to these issues. Throughout the program, students explore core sociological theories and methods, applying them to study crime patterns, causes of criminal behavior, and the effectiveness of criminal justice policies.

The curriculum includes foundational courses in sociology, which cover topics such as social theory, research methods, and social stratification. Specialized courses in criminology delve into areas such as juvenile delinquency, white-collar crime, policing, correctional systems, and issues related to crime prevention. Students also examine contemporary issues like cybercrime, social inequality, human rights, and the impact of law enforcement practices on different communities.

In addition to coursework, students have opportunities to engage in research projects, internships, and community-based learning initiatives that provide practical experience and insights into real-world criminal justice environments. The program emphasizes critical thinking, ethical considerations, and culturally sensitive perspectives, preparing graduates for careers in law enforcement, social services, justice administration, policy analysis, or further academic study.

The faculty members are experts in their fields, committed to providing personalized mentorship and fostering an inclusive learning environment. Upon graduation, students are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to analyze complex social problems related to crime and justice, advocate for equitable policies, and contribute meaningfully to societal improvements. With a strong foundation in sociology and criminology, graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles within public, private, and non-profit sectors, making a positive difference in their communities.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a specialization in Criminology at the University of Manitoba requires students to complete a set of core and elective courses designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of social structures, criminal justice systems, and criminological theories. Prospective students must fulfill admission prerequisites, typically including high school graduation with a competitive average and prerequisite courses in English and social sciences. The program mandates the successful completion of approximately 120 credit hours over the duration of the degree, generally achieved within four years of full-time study.

The curriculum includes foundational courses such as Introduction to Sociology, Criminology, and Research Methods in Social Sciences, which establish core knowledge and research skills. Students are also required to take courses covering criminal law, juvenile justice, and policing to understand the mechanisms of the criminal justice system. Additionally, the program emphasizes analytical and critical thinking skills through mandatory courses in data analysis, statistics, and social theory.

Electives in fields such as forensic science, psychology, political science, and Indigenous studies allow students to tailor their learning to specific interests within criminology. To enhance practical understanding, students participate in internships or cooperative education placements, often arranged through university partnerships with local law enforcement agencies and community organizations. The program also encourages engagement with current issues in criminal justice, including human rights, social justice, and issues of diversity and inclusion.

Assessment methods include examinations, research papers, presentation projects, and participation in discussions. Students must maintain a minimum GPA to progress through each year of study and to graduate. Before the final graduation, students typically complete a capstone project or thesis that demonstrates their comprehensive understanding of criminological topics and research methodologies. Overall, the program aims to equip graduates with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for careers in criminal justice, social services, or further academic study in sociology and criminology.

The University of Manitoba offers a comprehensive financing structure for students enrolled in the Sociology — Criminology program. Undergraduate students can access a variety of financial aid options including scholarships, bursaries, and awards based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria established by the university. Entrance scholarships are available for incoming students demonstrating exceptional academic achievement. Continuing students may qualify for merit-based awards and departmental scholarships specific to Sociology or Criminology disciplines. Additionally, students can apply for need-based bursaries designed to assist those facing financial challenges during their studies.

The university collaborates with government programs such as Canada Student Grants and Loans, which provide financial assistance to eligible students pursuing post-secondary education. These government-facilitated programs aim to reduce financial barriers and support students’ academic pursuits. Work-study opportunities are also available, enabling students to work part-time on or off-campus while completing their degree, thereby gaining practical experience and supplementing their income.

International students enrolled in the Sociology — Criminology program may have access to different scholarship opportunities, including international student awards and external funding sources. The university also encourages students to explore external scholarships from community organizations, professional associations related to sociology and criminology, and industry partners. Tuition fees are published annually, and payment plans are available to assist students in managing their educational expenses.

Graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in Sociology and Criminology can benefit from research assistantships, teaching assistantships, and fellowships, which often include a stipend and tuition remission. These funding options are highly competitive and require a strong academic record and research proposal.

The University of Manitoba’s Office of Student Financing provides detailed guidance and resources to assist students with application processes for various funding opportunities. Students are encouraged to consult the official university website and contact financial aid advisors for personalized advice and the latest information on available financial support. Overall, the university is committed to helping students access diverse financial resources to support their educational aspirations in Sociology — Criminology, minimizing financial barriers and promoting academic excellence.

The Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a specialization in Criminology at the University of Manitoba offers students a comprehensive exploration of societal structures, criminal behavior, the criminal justice system, and the social factors that influence crime and deviance. The program aims to equip students with a deep understanding of both theoretical and practical aspects of criminology and sociology, preparing them for careers in law enforcement, social services, research, policy analysis, or further academic pursuits. Students will engage with topics such as criminal law, the sociology of law, juvenile delinquency, victimology, and the criminal justice process. The program emphasizes critical thinking, empirical research skills, and an understanding of social inequalities and their influence on crime patterns. Coursework typically includes introductory sociology, criminology theories, research methods, and electives that allow students to tailor their studies to specific interests, such as Indigenous issues, social justice, or cybercrime. Students may also have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, research projects, or collaborations with community organizations. The program is designed to foster analytical skills, ethical considerations, and cultural competence, preparing graduates to contribute effectively to criminal justice and social policy discussions or pursue graduate studies in related fields. The faculty includes experts in sociology and criminology who bring diverse research interests and professional experiences. Graduates of the program are well-suited for roles in policing, probation, social work, advocacy organizations, or further specialization through graduate education. The program typically takes four years of full-time study to complete and requires a combination of core courses, electives, and a capstone or thesis project, offering a balanced blend of foundational knowledge and applied skills.