Socio-Legal Studies
This standout specialization examines the study of crime and punishment, the influences of social inequality, and the treatment of criminals and victims in the justice system. You’ll apply your sociological knowledge by performing independent research on homelessness, the criminalization of women, restorative justice or the impact on Indigenous peoples.
This specialization is available to students pursuing a single or joint-major Honours degree in Sociology.
For more detailed descriptions of the courses listed below please visit: https://www.trentu.ca/sociology/program/course-listing
Required Courses
- SOCI 2220H: Social Inequality
- SOCI 2610H: Deviance & Social Control
- SOCI 2615H: Crime & Society
- SOCI-CAST-GESO 4110H: Legal Research Methods
- SOCI 4270H: Sociology of Law
Students must also complete 2 courses from the following list:
- SOCI 3250H - Sociological Perspectives on Homelessness
- SOCI 3601H: Critical Criminology
- GESO-SOCI-CAST 3966H: Criminalizing & Punishing Women
- GESO-SOCI-CAST-POST 3962H: Gender, Sexualities, and the Law
Resume Boosters:
- Gain a solid foundation in legal research methodology and theoretical application that will prepare you for success in a variety of workplace settings
- Streamline and personalize your degree with a focus on crime and society
- Familiarize yourself with case law research by learning from and working with practising legal professionals
- Take a prison-based course that explore restorative justice in all contexts

Career Paths:
Featured
Police Officer
Police officers protect the public, detect and prevent crime and perform other activities directed at maintaining law and order. They are employed by municipal and federal governments and some provincial and regional governments. This unit group includes railway police.
Career Opportunities
- Police Officer
- Youth Worker
- Civilian Crime Analyst
- Law Professional
- Victim Service Worker
- Corrections Officer
- Policy Consultant
- Crisis Intervention Worker
- Administrator for Social Programming
- Border Services Officer
- Community Development Worker
- Social Worker
- Crime Prevention Worker
- Probation and Parole Officer
Admission Requirements
Ontario Secondary School Requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- A minimum of six Grade 12 4U or 4M courses, including program specific prerequisites
Program Requirements:
- A minimum 70% overall final average
- ENG 4U with a minimum of 60%
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