UNIVERSITY OF OTTAWA · CANADA
Master of Arts in Criminology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Four distinct MA options including thesis, thesis with field placement, research paper, and research paper with field placement.Program Options
- Opportunity for a Double Degree with Université catholique de Louvain (Belgium).International Collaboration
- Specialization in Women's Studies available.Interdisciplinary Focus
- Programs offered in both English and French.Bilingual Study
The Master of Arts (MA) in Criminology program at the University of Ottawa is dedicated to the scientific examination of crime, justice, and social control. It explores how norms are socially constructed, how certain behaviours and groups become criminalized, the functions of the criminal justice system, and contemporary intervention strategies. The program aims to provide students with a deep understanding of major theoretical and methodological frameworks in criminology, enabling them to critically analyze these concepts and apply them to real-world problems in crime and justice.
Curriculum
The MA program offers several options to tailor your graduate studies, each designed to build theoretical and methodological competencies. Options include a thesis, a thesis with field placement, a major research paper, or a major research paper with field placement. Some options may involve fieldwork of 360 hours. The program requires a minimum of 24 to 30 units depending on the chosen option.
- Year 1 (University of Ottawa - Double Degree)
- Research Methodology in Criminology ICRM 6720
- Research Seminar in CriminologyCRM 6725
- Graduate Criminology Elective
- Master's ThesisTHM 7999
- Year 2 (Université catholique de Louvain)
- Psychological Module
- Sociological Module
- Intervention Module
- Thesis Research
- Optional Course
Careers
The MA in Criminology program equips graduates with advanced knowledge and analytical skills applicable to a range of professional roles and further academic pursuits. The program's focus on theoretical frameworks and research methodologies prepares students for careers in fields related to justice, policy, and social services.
- Policy Analyst
- Research Officer
- Program Coordinator
- Community Advocate
- Criminal Justice Professional
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic requirements for the MA in Criminology?
- You need an Honour's Bachelor's degree with a minimum average of 75% (B+) in Criminology or an equivalent major. Previous studies must include CRM 3334 and CRM 3335 or equivalent, or these must be taken in the first term.
- How do I prove my language proficiency?
- Applicants whose first language is neither English nor French must demonstrate proficiency in one of the two official languages. Specific test requirements are available in the University of Ottawa's general graduate studies regulations.
- What are the application deadlines?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is December 1st.
- What are the available program options?
- The MA program offers four options: thesis, thesis with field placement, major research paper, or major research paper with field placement. Some options may involve 360 hours of fieldwork.
- Is there an opportunity for a double degree?
- Yes, there is a Double Degree option with Université catholique de Louvain in Belgium. Students interested in this option must email scsgrad@uottawa.ca to confirm their interest.
- Where can I find information on tuition and living costs?
- Specific tuition and living cost information is not detailed here. Please consult the University of Ottawa's official graduate studies website for the most current fee schedules and living cost estimates.
Entry requirements
Honour's Bachelor's degreeMinimum average of 75% (B+) with a major in Criminology or equivalent. Students without a Criminology major but with relevant work experience (2+ years) must submit a paper detailing its relevance. Those with an Honour's degree in a related field may be offered a qualifying year (up to 24 units) with a minimum grade of C+ and an average of B+.
Prerequisite CoursesPrevious studies must have included CRM 3334 and CRM 3335 or equivalent. If not, these must be taken as additional courses in the first term.
English or French ProficiencyApplicants whose first language is neither English nor French must demonstrate proficiency in one of the two official languages. Specific test requirements are available in the 'Admission' section of the general graduate studies regulations.
Direct admission into the 'Thesis with Field Placement' or 'Major Research Paper with Field Placement' options is not available; these are typically offered to students already in the thesis or research paper streams if placements are available. Students interested in the double degree option must also email scsgrad@uottawa.ca to confirm their interest.
Fees
Tuition (international)—
Tuition (home)—
Living—
Specific tuition and living cost information for the MA Criminology program is not detailed on the provided pages. Prospective students should consult the University of Ottawa's official graduate studies website for the most current fee schedules and living cost estimates.
How to apply
1. Prepare Required DocumentsGather transcripts, proof of language proficiency, a letter of intent, and any other required documents. If applicable, prepare a statement detailing relevant work experience. For the double degree option, an email confirming interest is also required.
2. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the online application form and upload all required supporting documents. Pay the application fee.
3. Application ReviewThe Admissions Committee will review your complete application.
4. Receive DecisionNotification of the admission decision will be sent to applicants.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic requirements for the MA in Criminology?
+
You need an Honour's Bachelor's degree with a minimum average of 75% (B+) in Criminology or an equivalent major. Previous studies must include CRM 3334 and CRM 3335 or equivalent, or these must be taken in the first term.
How do I prove my language proficiency?
+
Applicants whose first language is neither English nor French must demonstrate proficiency in one of the two official languages. Specific test requirements are available in the University of Ottawa's general graduate studies regulations.
What are the application deadlines?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is December 1st.
What are the available program options?
+
The MA program offers four options: thesis, thesis with field placement, major research paper, or major research paper with field placement. Some options may involve 360 hours of fieldwork.
Is there an opportunity for a double degree?
+
Yes, there is a Double Degree option with Université catholique de Louvain in Belgium. Students interested in this option must email scsgrad@uottawa.ca to confirm their interest.
Where can I find information on tuition and living costs?
+
Specific tuition and living cost information is not detailed here. Please consult the University of Ottawa's official graduate studies website for the most current fee schedules and living cost estimates.