The MA in criminology is open to most students who have completed an undergraduate degree with a first-class grade.
Students who have not previously studied sociology are required to take the following additional courses:
Students can choose to specialise in either theoretical or applied criminology. The theoretical criminology programme emphasises academic research, while the applied criminology programme is more focused on the practical aspects of the discipline.
It is possible to take a 30 ECTS graduate diploma in sociology, specialising in criminology.
The programme is 120 ECTS and is organised as two years of full-time study.
The programme structure varies depending on specialisation:
The programme is taught in English, apart from elective courses at other departments, which may be taught in Icelandic. Students can choose whether to submit the final thesis in Icelandic or English.
International applicants who do not speak English as a native language may have to submit evidence of English proficiency. See more about English proficiency under Helpful content below.
After completing the programme, students should, for example:
Criminology has its roots in sociology, but is an interdisciplinary subject by nature. Graduate studies in criminology could be a good fit for students with undergraduate degrees in most subjects. In other countries, criminology students come from a range of academic backgrounds, including sociology, psychology, law, police science or economics.
The programme would suit people who work or have worked in the judicial system. Criminology is a subject for anyone interested in the social context of crime, punishment and law enforcement.
Our graduate students have done traineeships at the Prison and Probation Administration and worked on projects to do with criminology.
Completing the programme allows a student to apply for doctoral studies.
BA, B.Ed, or BS degree with First Class grades or equivalent. All international applicants, whose native language is not English, are required to provide results of the TOEFL (79) or IELTS (6.5) tests as evidence of English proficiency.
Knowledge in social research methods and theories is preferable.
Students must complete 120 ECTS credits: 40 ECTS credits in mandatory courses, 30 ECTS credits in restricted electives and 20 ECTS credits in free electives. The MA Criminology program is completed by a 30 ECTS credits MA thesis. On request it is possible to complete the MA Criminology program by a 60 ECTS MA thesis and subsequently reducing restricted elective credits.
Non-Icelandic applicants with a degree from another country must submit evidence of English proficiency if their native language is not English.
Minimum score: TOEFL 79, IELST 6.5 or PTE 58.
Further information on supporting documents can be found here
Check below to see how the programme is structured.
This programme does not offer specialisations.
The primary objective of the seminar is to provide a general foundation for MA studies in sociology, methodology, and criminology. The department, its faculty, and the wider academic community will be introduced. Students will present their research interests and possible topics for their MA thesis. The assignments in the course will focus on the diversity and hierarchy of academic journals, effective uses of Web of Science and artificial, and critical engagement with research articles. The course will conclude with student submission and oral presentation of a written final assignment.
This course covers a detailed overview of theories in criminology and sociology of deviance. Students will read empirical research testing these theories in Iceland and elsewhere.
Different types of crimes and topics will be discussed in criminological/sociological light, such as gender and crime, immigration and crime.
Emphasis is placed on linking theoretical discussion with empirical research.
Students choose a field in society addressing or including activities related to criminological subjects with instructor approval. Students get acquainted with the field by taking part in the activities for a minimum of 40 hours. Students write up a report about their experiences submitted to the instructor. The goal is to give students an access to practical fields dealing with criminology related subjects. Students gain practical exposure, insights, and knowledge of the field they choose.
This is a comprehensive course in multiple-regression analysis. The goal of the course is that students develop enough conceptual understanding and practical knowledge to use this method on their own. The lectures cover various regression analysis techniques commonly used in quantitative social research, including control variables, the use of nominal variables, linear and nonlinear models, techniques that test for mediation and statistical interaction effects, and so on. We discuss the assumptions of regression analysis and learn techniques to detect and deal with violations of assumptions. In addition, logistic regression will be introduced, which is a method for a dichotomous dependent variable. We also review many of the basic concepts involved in statistical inference and significance testing. Students get plenty of hands-on experience with data analysis. The instructor hands out survey data that students use to practice the techniques covered in class. The statistical package SPSS will be used.
This course is in direct continuation of Criminological Theory and covers a variety of issues related to crime and society. This involves, among other things, the nature of crime and criminal law, corrections and the role of police in society.
Students choose a field in society addressing or including activities related to criminological subjects with instructor approval. Students get acquainted with the field by taking part in the activities for a minimum of 40 hours. Students write up a report about their experiences submitted to the instructor. The goal is to give students an access to practical fields dealing with criminology related subjects. Students gain practical exposure, insights, and knowledge of the field they choose.
Note that this course is taught in Icelandic and only available for Icelandic speaking students.
MA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
MA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
The primary objective of the seminar is to provide a dynamic, supportive space for MA students in sociology and criminology to deepen their engagement with their thesis research and encourage reciprocal support among students. Early in the semester, students participate in lightning-round introductions of their research, followed by more detailed presentations as their work progresses. Faculty members, PhD students and other scholars may also be invited to participate in the seminar. This seminar should encourage constructive feedback and collaborative discussions among students and faculty, refine students’ presentation skills, and enhance their professional development and scholarly identity.
The course is intended for students who have started working on their master's thesis.
The course’s objective is to introduce students to the diverse, academic criteria of qualitative research in social sciences and secondly that student’s gain experience in using qualitative methods. Furthermore, the course is practical in nature where each student works on an independent research assignment, which consists of designing and preparing a research project, collecting and analyzing data, and writing the main findings with guidance from the teacher. Research preparation, the creation of a research plan, data collection and analysis along with academic writing will be extensively covered during the course.
Over the past years, public discussion on how to address cases of sexual violence has been heated, particularly in the aftermath of the #MeToo Movement. Research shows that only a small percentage of such cases are reported to the police and only a small number of those cases lead to a conviction. This has been called a justice gap. Increasingly, we see victim-survivors of sexual violence tell their stories on social media, or in the media, and in some cases alleged offenders are named publicly which has evoked different responses amongst the public and had various consequences.
In this course, these societal developments will be explored from the perspective of sociology of law. Sociology of law uses theories and methods from the social sciences to examine the law, legal institutions, and legal behaviours, in the effort to analyse legal phenomena in their social, cultural, and historical contexts. To shed further light on the treatment of sexual violence cases, this course will also include readings from criminology, victimology, gender studies and the health sciences.
The course will seek answers to the following questions and more: Who commits sexual violence and why? How are men’s experiences of being subjected to sexual violence different from women’s experiences? Why is the legal status and rights of defendants different from that of victims? How is law in the books different from law in practice? How has the criminal justice system developed historically? What characterises legal education and the legal profession? What is the difference between legal consciousness and legal culture? How does legal justice differ from social justice? What are the advantages and disadvantages to non-traditional justice systems in comparison to traditional justice systems?
What is criminology? Criminological data and what criminologists do.
Crime definitions and how crime can be explained and understood. Examples of different theoretical perspectives will be covered in class: Classical Criminology and Social & Psychological Theories. What kind of criminological research and research questions are used with different theories?
Using this theoretical background, a number of crime types and topics within Icelandic criminology will be presented and discussed in class, including the following: Physical and sexual violence, alcohol and drugs in society, crime and punishment, public attitudes to crime and punishment, and social crisis and crime.
Students write a seminar paper and a diary (portfolio) of the topics presented in class. Final exam on-site.
This course has three main objectives. i) that students gain a better understanding of the research process and common methods, ii) that students get training in reading and criticizing existing research, and iii) that students get training in developing research questions with respect to theoretical issues and existing research. Lectures: We discuss concepts and methodologies emphasizing i) the strengths and limitations of various methods, ii) the connections among methodologies, methods, and theoretical issues. Discussion sessions: Students read research articles and discuss research methods in relation to specific sociological topics.
The course is taught in collaboration with Statistics Iceland.
The goal of this course is to enhance students' ability to understand and analyze domestic and international statistics. Students will gain knowledge about the purpose of statistics, their production, and the methodology behind their production. They will also receive training in analyzing published statistics, presenting, and interpreting them in a domestic and international context, depending on their subject matter.
Students will gain practical experience by working on realistic projects where statistics are used to analyze economic and social developments and to evaluate government actions based on statistics. Students will submit an analysis report aimed at providing information that can be used as a basis for government policy and evaluation of their actions in specific areas.
Teaching will take place from September 1 to October 17. Teaching will be online with meetings in real-time. First online-meeting is Tuesday September 2. Further information is available in the syllabus.
The course covers recent writings and currents of thought that mark, or are likely to mark, turning points in social and cultural theory. Particular care will be taken to situate theories in their historical and social contexts. Attendance to weekly 40 min. discussion classes throughout the course is compulsory. Distance learning students attend in person or via the Internet (with Zoom).
Our daily life may seem boringly traditional and predictable. Social psychology shows that it is an exciting and multifaceted phenomenon resting on a complicated interplay of individual factors and social structures. In this course we will use theories and findings by social psychologists to shed light on what is behind the glitter of the obvious. We will go from what is public to the aspects that we conceal and hide, study what advertisers, salespeople and influencers do to bend us and turn and look at the degree to which variables like gender, class and ethnicity influence and control what we see, how we see and how we respond to the stimulus of everyday life.
Students will work on diverse small assignments connected to the main thrust of the course, individually or in groups. Even though social psychology relies on both qualitative and quantitative methods the emphasis in the assignments will be on qualitative methods such as visual analysis, conversation analysis and participatory observations.
The apple does not fall far from the tree? This course explores how a person’s social background affect the social position they ultimately attain in life and how inequality is reproduced from one generation to the next. The course addresses how social mobility has changed over time and across countries and which role education plays for the process of social mobility. We will discuss the main theories used to explain inequality in education and social mobility and (potential) changes over time. The course will focus on individuals’ social background (social class of origin, parental education or parental socio-economic status) but gender and ethnic inequalities will also be considered in the last meetings. In the seminar, we will read a mix of classic readings and more recent literature. Furthermore, special emphasis will be paid on discussing readings and findings from other countries with respect to the Icelandic country case.
The course will cover cities, towns, villages and farming communities in a world of globalisation. It will emphasise the mobility of people, money, products and information which has transformed the logic, delimitation and relations between urban and rural communities in different countries. Major theories on the interplay between culture and structure will be covered as well as the societal and technological changes which have reconstructed urban-rural distinctions and interconnections. Special attention will be given to patterns of migration within and between countries and their effects on the development of different settlements.
Reading course in MA studies in sociology. The student contacts a full-time teacher in a sociology program and requests guidance in an independent reading course. The teacher and the student compile a reading list at the beginning of the second semester and the student, in consultation with the supervisor, regularly reports on progress. The subject must be sociological. The student does not register for the course until the teacher has approved in writing (e.g. by e-mail) his / her role as supervisor.
Einstaklingsnámskeið. Sjálfstæð vinna nemenda á sviði lokaritgerða í samráði við leiðbeinendur.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with understanding on how to plan and conduct survey research. The course will address most common sampling design and different type of survey research (phone, face-to-face, internet, mail etc.). The basic measurement theories will be used to explore fundamental concepts of survey research, such as validity, reliability, question wording and contextual effect. The use of factor analysis and item analysis will be used to evaluate the quality of measurement instruments. The course emphasizes students’ active learning by planning survey research and analyzing survey data.
Social inequality impacts health. Those who are more vulnerable in society have, in general, worse health than those with more resources. In this course, we will focus on the relationship between social standing and health. Students will be introducted to the major theories within medical sociology, for example Link and Phelan´s theory of fundamental causes of disase and we will cover major empirical research in the field. One of the most important contribution of sociology is an understanding of how larger societal forces (for example, the health system and the welfare system) shape individual lives and therefore we will look at how the relationship between social standing and health is shaped by these forces. Since our health is a complex phenomenon we will also look at it from an interdisciplinary perspective, by using insights from public health, health science, antropology, and political science.
Reading course in MA studies in sociology. The student contacts a full-time teacher in a sociology program and requests guidance in an independent reading course. The teacher and the student compile a reading list at the beginning of the second semester and the student, in consultation with the supervisor, regularly reports on progress. The subject must be sociological. The student does not register for the course until the teacher has approved in writing (e.g. by e-mail) his / her role as supervisor.
Einstaklingsnámskeið. Sjálfstæð vinna nemenda á sviði lokaritgerða í samráði við leiðbeinendur.
The primary objective of the seminar is to provide a general foundation for MA studies in sociology, methodology, and criminology. The department, its faculty, and the wider academic community will be introduced. Students will present their research interests and possible topics for their MA thesis. The assignments in the course will focus on the diversity and hierarchy of academic journals, effective uses of Web of Science and artificial, and critical engagement with research articles. The course will conclude with student submission and oral presentation of a written final assignment.
This course covers a detailed overview of theories in criminology and sociology of deviance. Students will read empirical research testing these theories in Iceland and elsewhere.
Different types of crimes and topics will be discussed in criminological/sociological light, such as gender and crime, immigration and crime.
Emphasis is placed on linking theoretical discussion with empirical research.
Students choose a field in society addressing or including activities related to criminological subjects with instructor approval. Students get acquainted with the field by taking part in the activities for a minimum of 40 hours. Students write up a report about their experiences submitted to the instructor. The goal is to give students an access to practical fields dealing with criminology related subjects. Students gain practical exposure, insights, and knowledge of the field they choose.
This is a comprehensive course in multiple-regression analysis. The goal of the course is that students develop enough conceptual understanding and practical knowledge to use this method on their own. The lectures cover various regression analysis techniques commonly used in quantitative social research, including control variables, the use of nominal variables, linear and nonlinear models, techniques that test for mediation and statistical interaction effects, and so on. We discuss the assumptions of regression analysis and learn techniques to detect and deal with violations of assumptions. In addition, logistic regression will be introduced, which is a method for a dichotomous dependent variable. We also review many of the basic concepts involved in statistical inference and significance testing. Students get plenty of hands-on experience with data analysis. The instructor hands out survey data that students use to practice the techniques covered in class. The statistical package SPSS will be used.
This course is in direct continuation of Criminological Theory and covers a variety of issues related to crime and society. This involves, among other things, the nature of crime and criminal law, corrections and the role of police in society.
Students choose a field in society addressing or including activities related to criminological subjects with instructor approval. Students get acquainted with the field by taking part in the activities for a minimum of 40 hours. Students write up a report about their experiences submitted to the instructor. The goal is to give students an access to practical fields dealing with criminology related subjects. Students gain practical exposure, insights, and knowledge of the field they choose.
Note that this course is taught in Icelandic and only available for Icelandic speaking students.
MA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
MA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
The primary objective of the seminar is to provide a dynamic, supportive space for MA students in sociology and criminology to deepen their engagement with their thesis research and encourage reciprocal support among students. Early in the semester, students participate in lightning-round introductions of their research, followed by more detailed presentations as their work progresses. Faculty members, PhD students and other scholars may also be invited to participate in the seminar. This seminar should encourage constructive feedback and collaborative discussions among students and faculty, refine students’ presentation skills, and enhance their professional development and scholarly identity.
The course is intended for students who have started working on their master's thesis.
The course’s objective is to introduce students to the diverse, academic criteria of qualitative research in social sciences and secondly that student’s gain experience in using qualitative methods. Furthermore, the course is practical in nature where each student works on an independent research assignment, which consists of designing and preparing a research project, collecting and analyzing data, and writing the main findings with guidance from the teacher. Research preparation, the creation of a research plan, data collection and analysis along with academic writing will be extensively covered during the course.
Over the past years, public discussion on how to address cases of sexual violence has been heated, particularly in the aftermath of the #MeToo Movement. Research shows that only a small percentage of such cases are reported to the police and only a small number of those cases lead to a conviction. This has been called a justice gap. Increasingly, we see victim-survivors of sexual violence tell their stories on social media, or in the media, and in some cases alleged offenders are named publicly which has evoked different responses amongst the public and had various consequences.
In this course, these societal developments will be explored from the perspective of sociology of law. Sociology of law uses theories and methods from the social sciences to examine the law, legal institutions, and legal behaviours, in the effort to analyse legal phenomena in their social, cultural, and historical contexts. To shed further light on the treatment of sexual violence cases, this course will also include readings from criminology, victimology, gender studies and the health sciences.
The course will seek answers to the following questions and more: Who commits sexual violence and why? How are men’s experiences of being subjected to sexual violence different from women’s experiences? Why is the legal status and rights of defendants different from that of victims? How is law in the books different from law in practice? How has the criminal justice system developed historically? What characterises legal education and the legal profession? What is the difference between legal consciousness and legal culture? How does legal justice differ from social justice? What are the advantages and disadvantages to non-traditional justice systems in comparison to traditional justice systems?
What is criminology? Criminological data and what criminologists do.
Crime definitions and how crime can be explained and understood. Examples of different theoretical perspectives will be covered in class: Classical Criminology and Social & Psychological Theories. What kind of criminological research and research questions are used with different theories?
Using this theoretical background, a number of crime types and topics within Icelandic criminology will be presented and discussed in class, including the following: Physical and sexual violence, alcohol and drugs in society, crime and punishment, public attitudes to crime and punishment, and social crisis and crime.
Students write a seminar paper and a diary (portfolio) of the topics presented in class. Final exam on-site.
This course has three main objectives. i) that students gain a better understanding of the research process and common methods, ii) that students get training in reading and criticizing existing research, and iii) that students get training in developing research questions with respect to theoretical issues and existing research. Lectures: We discuss concepts and methodologies emphasizing i) the strengths and limitations of various methods, ii) the connections among methodologies, methods, and theoretical issues. Discussion sessions: Students read research articles and discuss research methods in relation to specific sociological topics.
The course is taught in collaboration with Statistics Iceland.
The goal of this course is to enhance students' ability to understand and analyze domestic and international statistics. Students will gain knowledge about the purpose of statistics, their production, and the methodology behind their production. They will also receive training in analyzing published statistics, presenting, and interpreting them in a domestic and international context, depending on their subject matter.
Students will gain practical experience by working on realistic projects where statistics are used to analyze economic and social developments and to evaluate government actions based on statistics. Students will submit an analysis report aimed at providing information that can be used as a basis for government policy and evaluation of their actions in specific areas.
Teaching will take place from September 1 to October 17. Teaching will be online with meetings in real-time. First online-meeting is Tuesday September 2. Further information is available in the syllabus.
The course covers recent writings and currents of thought that mark, or are likely to mark, turning points in social and cultural theory. Particular care will be taken to situate theories in their historical and social contexts. Attendance to weekly 40 min. discussion classes throughout the course is compulsory. Distance learning students attend in person or via the Internet (with Zoom).
Our daily life may seem boringly traditional and predictable. Social psychology shows that it is an exciting and multifaceted phenomenon resting on a complicated interplay of individual factors and social structures. In this course we will use theories and findings by social psychologists to shed light on what is behind the glitter of the obvious. We will go from what is public to the aspects that we conceal and hide, study what advertisers, salespeople and influencers do to bend us and turn and look at the degree to which variables like gender, class and ethnicity influence and control what we see, how we see and how we respond to the stimulus of everyday life.
Students will work on diverse small assignments connected to the main thrust of the course, individually or in groups. Even though social psychology relies on both qualitative and quantitative methods the emphasis in the assignments will be on qualitative methods such as visual analysis, conversation analysis and participatory observations.
The apple does not fall far from the tree? This course explores how a person’s social background affect the social position they ultimately attain in life and how inequality is reproduced from one generation to the next. The course addresses how social mobility has changed over time and across countries and which role education plays for the process of social mobility. We will discuss the main theories used to explain inequality in education and social mobility and (potential) changes over time. The course will focus on individuals’ social background (social class of origin, parental education or parental socio-economic status) but gender and ethnic inequalities will also be considered in the last meetings. In the seminar, we will read a mix of classic readings and more recent literature. Furthermore, special emphasis will be paid on discussing readings and findings from other countries with respect to the Icelandic country case.
The course will cover cities, towns, villages and farming communities in a world of globalisation. It will emphasise the mobility of people, money, products and information which has transformed the logic, delimitation and relations between urban and rural communities in different countries. Major theories on the interplay between culture and structure will be covered as well as the societal and technological changes which have reconstructed urban-rural distinctions and interconnections. Special attention will be given to patterns of migration within and between countries and their effects on the development of different settlements.
Reading course in MA studies in sociology. The student contacts a full-time teacher in a sociology program and requests guidance in an independent reading course. The teacher and the student compile a reading list at the beginning of the second semester and the student, in consultation with the supervisor, regularly reports on progress. The subject must be sociological. The student does not register for the course until the teacher has approved in writing (e.g. by e-mail) his / her role as supervisor.
Einstaklingsnámskeið. Sjálfstæð vinna nemenda á sviði lokaritgerða í samráði við leiðbeinendur.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with understanding on how to plan and conduct survey research. The course will address most common sampling design and different type of survey research (phone, face-to-face, internet, mail etc.). The basic measurement theories will be used to explore fundamental concepts of survey research, such as validity, reliability, question wording and contextual effect. The use of factor analysis and item analysis will be used to evaluate the quality of measurement instruments. The course emphasizes students’ active learning by planning survey research and analyzing survey data.
Social inequality impacts health. Those who are more vulnerable in society have, in general, worse health than those with more resources. In this course, we will focus on the relationship between social standing and health. Students will be introducted to the major theories within medical sociology, for example Link and Phelan´s theory of fundamental causes of disase and we will cover major empirical research in the field. One of the most important contribution of sociology is an understanding of how larger societal forces (for example, the health system and the welfare system) shape individual lives and therefore we will look at how the relationship between social standing and health is shaped by these forces. Since our health is a complex phenomenon we will also look at it from an interdisciplinary perspective, by using insights from public health, health science, antropology, and political science.
Reading course in MA studies in sociology. The student contacts a full-time teacher in a sociology program and requests guidance in an independent reading course. The teacher and the student compile a reading list at the beginning of the second semester and the student, in consultation with the supervisor, regularly reports on progress. The subject must be sociological. The student does not register for the course until the teacher has approved in writing (e.g. by e-mail) his / her role as supervisor.
Einstaklingsnámskeið. Sjálfstæð vinna nemenda á sviði lokaritgerða í samráði við leiðbeinendur.
The primary objective of the seminar is to provide a general foundation for MA studies in sociology, methodology, and criminology. The department, its faculty, and the wider academic community will be introduced. Students will present their research interests and possible topics for their MA thesis. The assignments in the course will focus on the diversity and hierarchy of academic journals, effective uses of Web of Science and artificial, and critical engagement with research articles. The course will conclude with student submission and oral presentation of a written final assignment.
This course covers a detailed overview of theories in criminology and sociology of deviance. Students will read empirical research testing these theories in Iceland and elsewhere.
Different types of crimes and topics will be discussed in criminological/sociological light, such as gender and crime, immigration and crime.
Emphasis is placed on linking theoretical discussion with empirical research.
Students choose a field in society addressing or including activities related to criminological subjects with instructor approval. Students get acquainted with the field by taking part in the activities for a minimum of 40 hours. Students write up a report about their experiences submitted to the instructor. The goal is to give students an access to practical fields dealing with criminology related subjects. Students gain practical exposure, insights, and knowledge of the field they choose.
This is a comprehensive course in multiple-regression analysis. The goal of the course is that students develop enough conceptual understanding and practical knowledge to use this method on their own. The lectures cover various regression analysis techniques commonly used in quantitative social research, including control variables, the use of nominal variables, linear and nonlinear models, techniques that test for mediation and statistical interaction effects, and so on. We discuss the assumptions of regression analysis and learn techniques to detect and deal with violations of assumptions. In addition, logistic regression will be introduced, which is a method for a dichotomous dependent variable. We also review many of the basic concepts involved in statistical inference and significance testing. Students get plenty of hands-on experience with data analysis. The instructor hands out survey data that students use to practice the techniques covered in class. The statistical package SPSS will be used.
This course is in direct continuation of Criminological Theory and covers a variety of issues related to crime and society. This involves, among other things, the nature of crime and criminal law, corrections and the role of police in society.
Students choose a field in society addressing or including activities related to criminological subjects with instructor approval. Students get acquainted with the field by taking part in the activities for a minimum of 40 hours. Students write up a report about their experiences submitted to the instructor. The goal is to give students an access to practical fields dealing with criminology related subjects. Students gain practical exposure, insights, and knowledge of the field they choose.
Note that this course is taught in Icelandic and only available for Icelandic speaking students.
MA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
MA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
The primary objective of the seminar is to provide a dynamic, supportive space for MA students in sociology and criminology to deepen their engagement with their thesis research and encourage reciprocal support among students. Early in the semester, students participate in lightning-round introductions of their research, followed by more detailed presentations as their work progresses. Faculty members, PhD students and other scholars may also be invited to participate in the seminar. This seminar should encourage constructive feedback and collaborative discussions among students and faculty, refine students’ presentation skills, and enhance their professional development and scholarly identity.
The course is intended for students who have started working on their master's thesis.
The course’s objective is to introduce students to the diverse, academic criteria of qualitative research in social sciences and secondly that student’s gain experience in using qualitative methods. Furthermore, the course is practical in nature where each student works on an independent research assignment, which consists of designing and preparing a research project, collecting and analyzing data, and writing the main findings with guidance from the teacher. Research preparation, the creation of a research plan, data collection and analysis along with academic writing will be extensively covered during the course.
Over the past years, public discussion on how to address cases of sexual violence has been heated, particularly in the aftermath of the #MeToo Movement. Research shows that only a small percentage of such cases are reported to the police and only a small number of those cases lead to a conviction. This has been called a justice gap. Increasingly, we see victim-survivors of sexual violence tell their stories on social media, or in the media, and in some cases alleged offenders are named publicly which has evoked different responses amongst the public and had various consequences.
In this course, these societal developments will be explored from the perspective of sociology of law. Sociology of law uses theories and methods from the social sciences to examine the law, legal institutions, and legal behaviours, in the effort to analyse legal phenomena in their social, cultural, and historical contexts. To shed further light on the treatment of sexual violence cases, this course will also include readings from criminology, victimology, gender studies and the health sciences.
The course will seek answers to the following questions and more: Who commits sexual violence and why? How are men’s experiences of being subjected to sexual violence different from women’s experiences? Why is the legal status and rights of defendants different from that of victims? How is law in the books different from law in practice? How has the criminal justice system developed historically? What characterises legal education and the legal profession? What is the difference between legal consciousness and legal culture? How does legal justice differ from social justice? What are the advantages and disadvantages to non-traditional justice systems in comparison to traditional justice systems?
What is criminology? Criminological data and what criminologists do.
Crime definitions and how crime can be explained and understood. Examples of different theoretical perspectives will be covered in class: Classical Criminology and Social & Psychological Theories. What kind of criminological research and research questions are used with different theories?
Using this theoretical background, a number of crime types and topics within Icelandic criminology will be presented and discussed in class, including the following: Physical and sexual violence, alcohol and drugs in society, crime and punishment, public attitudes to crime and punishment, and social crisis and crime.
Students write a seminar paper and a diary (portfolio) of the topics presented in class. Final exam on-site.
This course has three main objectives. i) that students gain a better understanding of the research process and common methods, ii) that students get training in reading and criticizing existing research, and iii) that students get training in developing research questions with respect to theoretical issues and existing research. Lectures: We discuss concepts and methodologies emphasizing i) the strengths and limitations of various methods, ii) the connections among methodologies, methods, and theoretical issues. Discussion sessions: Students read research articles and discuss research methods in relation to specific sociological topics.
The course is taught in collaboration with Statistics Iceland.
The goal of this course is to enhance students' ability to understand and analyze domestic and international statistics. Students will gain knowledge about the purpose of statistics, their production, and the methodology behind their production. They will also receive training in analyzing published statistics, presenting, and interpreting them in a domestic and international context, depending on their subject matter.
Students will gain practical experience by working on realistic projects where statistics are used to analyze economic and social developments and to evaluate government actions based on statistics. Students will submit an analysis report aimed at providing information that can be used as a basis for government policy and evaluation of their actions in specific areas.
Teaching will take place from September 1 to October 17. Teaching will be online with meetings in real-time. First online-meeting is Tuesday September 2. Further information is available in the syllabus.
The course covers recent writings and currents of thought that mark, or are likely to mark, turning points in social and cultural theory. Particular care will be taken to situate theories in their historical and social contexts. Attendance to weekly 40 min. discussion classes throughout the course is compulsory. Distance learning students attend in person or via the Internet (with Zoom).
Our daily life may seem boringly traditional and predictable. Social psychology shows that it is an exciting and multifaceted phenomenon resting on a complicated interplay of individual factors and social structures. In this course we will use theories and findings by social psychologists to shed light on what is behind the glitter of the obvious. We will go from what is public to the aspects that we conceal and hide, study what advertisers, salespeople and influencers do to bend us and turn and look at the degree to which variables like gender, class and ethnicity influence and control what we see, how we see and how we respond to the stimulus of everyday life.
Students will work on diverse small assignments connected to the main thrust of the course, individually or in groups. Even though social psychology relies on both qualitative and quantitative methods the emphasis in the assignments will be on qualitative methods such as visual analysis, conversation analysis and participatory observations.
The apple does not fall far from the tree? This course explores how a person’s social background affect the social position they ultimately attain in life and how inequality is reproduced from one generation to the next. The course addresses how social mobility has changed over time and across countries and which role education plays for the process of social mobility. We will discuss the main theories used to explain inequality in education and social mobility and (potential) changes over time. The course will focus on individuals’ social background (social class of origin, parental education or parental socio-economic status) but gender and ethnic inequalities will also be considered in the last meetings. In the seminar, we will read a mix of classic readings and more recent literature. Furthermore, special emphasis will be paid on discussing readings and findings from other countries with respect to the Icelandic country case.
The course will cover cities, towns, villages and farming communities in a world of globalisation. It will emphasise the mobility of people, money, products and information which has transformed the logic, delimitation and relations between urban and rural communities in different countries. Major theories on the interplay between culture and structure will be covered as well as the societal and technological changes which have reconstructed urban-rural distinctions and interconnections. Special attention will be given to patterns of migration within and between countries and their effects on the development of different settlements.
Reading course in MA studies in sociology. The student contacts a full-time teacher in a sociology program and requests guidance in an independent reading course. The teacher and the student compile a reading list at the beginning of the second semester and the student, in consultation with the supervisor, regularly reports on progress. The subject must be sociological. The student does not register for the course until the teacher has approved in writing (e.g. by e-mail) his / her role as supervisor.
Einstaklingsnámskeið. Sjálfstæð vinna nemenda á sviði lokaritgerða í samráði við leiðbeinendur.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with understanding on how to plan and conduct survey research. The course will address most common sampling design and different type of survey research (phone, face-to-face, internet, mail etc.). The basic measurement theories will be used to explore fundamental concepts of survey research, such as validity, reliability, question wording and contextual effect. The use of factor analysis and item analysis will be used to evaluate the quality of measurement instruments. The course emphasizes students’ active learning by planning survey research and analyzing survey data.
Social inequality impacts health. Those who are more vulnerable in society have, in general, worse health than those with more resources. In this course, we will focus on the relationship between social standing and health. Students will be introducted to the major theories within medical sociology, for example Link and Phelan´s theory of fundamental causes of disase and we will cover major empirical research in the field. One of the most important contribution of sociology is an understanding of how larger societal forces (for example, the health system and the welfare system) shape individual lives and therefore we will look at how the relationship between social standing and health is shaped by these forces. Since our health is a complex phenomenon we will also look at it from an interdisciplinary perspective, by using insights from public health, health science, antropology, and political science.
Reading course in MA studies in sociology. The student contacts a full-time teacher in a sociology program and requests guidance in an independent reading course. The teacher and the student compile a reading list at the beginning of the second semester and the student, in consultation with the supervisor, regularly reports on progress. The subject must be sociological. The student does not register for the course until the teacher has approved in writing (e.g. by e-mail) his / her role as supervisor.
Einstaklingsnámskeið. Sjálfstæð vinna nemenda á sviði lokaritgerða í samráði við leiðbeinendur.
The primary objective of the seminar is to provide a general foundation for MA studies in sociology, methodology, and criminology. The department, its faculty, and the wider academic community will be introduced. Students will present their research interests and possible topics for their MA thesis. The assignments in the course will focus on the diversity and hierarchy of academic journals, effective uses of Web of Science and artificial, and critical engagement with research articles. The course will conclude with student submission and oral presentation of a written final assignment.
This course covers a detailed overview of theories in criminology and sociology of deviance. Students will read empirical research testing these theories in Iceland and elsewhere.
Different types of crimes and topics will be discussed in criminological/sociological light, such as gender and crime, immigration and crime.
Emphasis is placed on linking theoretical discussion with empirical research.
Students choose a field in society addressing or including activities related to criminological subjects with instructor approval. Students get acquainted with the field by taking part in the activities for a minimum of 40 hours. Students write up a report about their experiences submitted to the instructor. The goal is to give students an access to practical fields dealing with criminology related subjects. Students gain practical exposure, insights, and knowledge of the field they choose.
This is a comprehensive course in multiple-regression analysis. The goal of the course is that students develop enough conceptual understanding and practical knowledge to use this method on their own. The lectures cover various regression analysis techniques commonly used in quantitative social research, including control variables, the use of nominal variables, linear and nonlinear models, techniques that test for mediation and statistical interaction effects, and so on. We discuss the assumptions of regression analysis and learn techniques to detect and deal with violations of assumptions. In addition, logistic regression will be introduced, which is a method for a dichotomous dependent variable. We also review many of the basic concepts involved in statistical inference and significance testing. Students get plenty of hands-on experience with data analysis. The instructor hands out survey data that students use to practice the techniques covered in class. The statistical package SPSS will be used.
This course is in direct continuation of Criminological Theory and covers a variety of issues related to crime and society. This involves, among other things, the nature of crime and criminal law, corrections and the role of police in society.
Students choose a field in society addressing or including activities related to criminological subjects with instructor approval. Students get acquainted with the field by taking part in the activities for a minimum of 40 hours. Students write up a report about their experiences submitted to the instructor. The goal is to give students an access to practical fields dealing with criminology related subjects. Students gain practical exposure, insights, and knowledge of the field they choose.
Note that this course is taught in Icelandic and only available for Icelandic speaking students.
MA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
MA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
The primary objective of the seminar is to provide a dynamic, supportive space for MA students in sociology and criminology to deepen their engagement with their thesis research and encourage reciprocal support among students. Early in the semester, students participate in lightning-round introductions of their research, followed by more detailed presentations as their work progresses. Faculty members, PhD students and other scholars may also be invited to participate in the seminar. This seminar should encourage constructive feedback and collaborative discussions among students and faculty, refine students’ presentation skills, and enhance their professional development and scholarly identity.
The course is intended for students who have started working on their master's thesis.
The course’s objective is to introduce students to the diverse, academic criteria of qualitative research in social sciences and secondly that student’s gain experience in using qualitative methods. Furthermore, the course is practical in nature where each student works on an independent research assignment, which consists of designing and preparing a research project, collecting and analyzing data, and writing the main findings with guidance from the teacher. Research preparation, the creation of a research plan, data collection and analysis along with academic writing will be extensively covered during the course.
Over the past years, public discussion on how to address cases of sexual violence has been heated, particularly in the aftermath of the #MeToo Movement. Research shows that only a small percentage of such cases are reported to the police and only a small number of those cases lead to a conviction. This has been called a justice gap. Increasingly, we see victim-survivors of sexual violence tell their stories on social media, or in the media, and in some cases alleged offenders are named publicly which has evoked different responses amongst the public and had various consequences.
In this course, these societal developments will be explored from the perspective of sociology of law. Sociology of law uses theories and methods from the social sciences to examine the law, legal institutions, and legal behaviours, in the effort to analyse legal phenomena in their social, cultural, and historical contexts. To shed further light on the treatment of sexual violence cases, this course will also include readings from criminology, victimology, gender studies and the health sciences.
The course will seek answers to the following questions and more: Who commits sexual violence and why? How are men’s experiences of being subjected to sexual violence different from women’s experiences? Why is the legal status and rights of defendants different from that of victims? How is law in the books different from law in practice? How has the criminal justice system developed historically? What characterises legal education and the legal profession? What is the difference between legal consciousness and legal culture? How does legal justice differ from social justice? What are the advantages and disadvantages to non-traditional justice systems in comparison to traditional justice systems?
What is criminology? Criminological data and what criminologists do.
Crime definitions and how crime can be explained and understood. Examples of different theoretical perspectives will be covered in class: Classical Criminology and Social & Psychological Theories. What kind of criminological research and research questions are used with different theories?
Using this theoretical background, a number of crime types and topics within Icelandic criminology will be presented and discussed in class, including the following: Physical and sexual violence, alcohol and drugs in society, crime and punishment, public attitudes to crime and punishment, and social crisis and crime.
Students write a seminar paper and a diary (portfolio) of the topics presented in class. Final exam on-site.
This course has three main objectives. i) that students gain a better understanding of the research process and common methods, ii) that students get training in reading and criticizing existing research, and iii) that students get training in developing research questions with respect to theoretical issues and existing research. Lectures: We discuss concepts and methodologies emphasizing i) the strengths and limitations of various methods, ii) the connections among methodologies, methods, and theoretical issues. Discussion sessions: Students read research articles and discuss research methods in relation to specific sociological topics.
The course is taught in collaboration with Statistics Iceland.
The goal of this course is to enhance students' ability to understand and analyze domestic and international statistics. Students will gain knowledge about the purpose of statistics, their production, and the methodology behind their production. They will also receive training in analyzing published statistics, presenting, and interpreting them in a domestic and international context, depending on their subject matter.
Students will gain practical experience by working on realistic projects where statistics are used to analyze economic and social developments and to evaluate government actions based on statistics. Students will submit an analysis report aimed at providing information that can be used as a basis for government policy and evaluation of their actions in specific areas.
Teaching will take place from September 1 to October 17. Teaching will be online with meetings in real-time. First online-meeting is Tuesday September 2. Further information is available in the syllabus.
The course covers recent writings and currents of thought that mark, or are likely to mark, turning points in social and cultural theory. Particular care will be taken to situate theories in their historical and social contexts. Attendance to weekly 40 min. discussion classes throughout the course is compulsory. Distance learning students attend in person or via the Internet (with Zoom).
Our daily life may seem boringly traditional and predictable. Social psychology shows that it is an exciting and multifaceted phenomenon resting on a complicated interplay of individual factors and social structures. In this course we will use theories and findings by social psychologists to shed light on what is behind the glitter of the obvious. We will go from what is public to the aspects that we conceal and hide, study what advertisers, salespeople and influencers do to bend us and turn and look at the degree to which variables like gender, class and ethnicity influence and control what we see, how we see and how we respond to the stimulus of everyday life.
Students will work on diverse small assignments connected to the main thrust of the course, individually or in groups. Even though social psychology relies on both qualitative and quantitative methods the emphasis in the assignments will be on qualitative methods such as visual analysis, conversation analysis and participatory observations.
The apple does not fall far from the tree? This course explores how a person’s social background affect the social position they ultimately attain in life and how inequality is reproduced from one generation to the next. The course addresses how social mobility has changed over time and across countries and which role education plays for the process of social mobility. We will discuss the main theories used to explain inequality in education and social mobility and (potential) changes over time. The course will focus on individuals’ social background (social class of origin, parental education or parental socio-economic status) but gender and ethnic inequalities will also be considered in the last meetings. In the seminar, we will read a mix of classic readings and more recent literature. Furthermore, special emphasis will be paid on discussing readings and findings from other countries with respect to the Icelandic country case.
The course will cover cities, towns, villages and farming communities in a world of globalisation. It will emphasise the mobility of people, money, products and information which has transformed the logic, delimitation and relations between urban and rural communities in different countries. Major theories on the interplay between culture and structure will be covered as well as the societal and technological changes which have reconstructed urban-rural distinctions and interconnections. Special attention will be given to patterns of migration within and between countries and their effects on the development of different settlements.
Reading course in MA studies in sociology. The student contacts a full-time teacher in a sociology program and requests guidance in an independent reading course. The teacher and the student compile a reading list at the beginning of the second semester and the student, in consultation with the supervisor, regularly reports on progress. The subject must be sociological. The student does not register for the course until the teacher has approved in writing (e.g. by e-mail) his / her role as supervisor.
Einstaklingsnámskeið. Sjálfstæð vinna nemenda á sviði lokaritgerða í samráði við leiðbeinendur.
The purpose of this course is to provide students with understanding on how to plan and conduct survey research. The course will address most common sampling design and different type of survey research (phone, face-to-face, internet, mail etc.). The basic measurement theories will be used to explore fundamental concepts of survey research, such as validity, reliability, question wording and contextual effect. The use of factor analysis and item analysis will be used to evaluate the quality of measurement instruments. The course emphasizes students’ active learning by planning survey research and analyzing survey data.
Social inequality impacts health. Those who are more vulnerable in society have, in general, worse health than those with more resources. In this course, we will focus on the relationship between social standing and health. Students will be introducted to the major theories within medical sociology, for example Link and Phelan´s theory of fundamental causes of disase and we will cover major empirical research in the field. One of the most important contribution of sociology is an understanding of how larger societal forces (for example, the health system and the welfare system) shape individual lives and therefore we will look at how the relationship between social standing and health is shaped by these forces. Since our health is a complex phenomenon we will also look at it from an interdisciplinary perspective, by using insights from public health, health science, antropology, and political science.
Reading course in MA studies in sociology. The student contacts a full-time teacher in a sociology program and requests guidance in an independent reading course. The teacher and the student compile a reading list at the beginning of the second semester and the student, in consultation with the supervisor, regularly reports on progress. The subject must be sociological. The student does not register for the course until the teacher has approved in writing (e.g. by e-mail) his / her role as supervisor.
Einstaklingsnámskeið. Sjálfstæð vinna nemenda á sviði lokaritgerða í samráði við leiðbeinendur.
The timetable shown below is for the current academic year and is FOR REFERENCE ONLY.
Changes may occur for the autumn semester in August and September and for the spring semester in December and January. You will find your final timetable in Ugla when the studies start. Note! This timetable is not suitable for planning your work schedule if you are a part-time employee.
The University of Iceland collaborates with over 400 universities worldwide. This provides a unique opportunity to pursue part of your studies at an international university thus gaining added experience and fresh insight into your field of study.
Students generally have the opportunity to join an exchange programme, internship, or summer courses. However, exchanges are always subject to faculty approval.
Students have the opportunity to have courses evaluated as part of their studies at the University of Iceland, so their stay does not have to affect the duration of their studies.
A degree in criminology can open up opportunities in:
This list is not exhaustive.
What interests you?
Follow the path
If you still have questions, feel free to contact us.
The School office offers support to students and lecturers, providing guidance, counselling, and assistance with various matters.
You are welcome to drop by at the office in Gimli or you can book an online meeting in Teams with the staff.
