- Are you interested in law, justice and Icelandic criminal policy?
- Do you want to explore crime in Iceland in an international context?
- Do you have a background in sociology or would you like to acquire the necessary foundation in this field?
- Are you looking for a programme that deals with various different aspects of our society?
- Do you want to learn about criminology, victimology, gender studies, justice studies and health sciences?
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:
- FÉL204G Methodology: Research methods in social sciences
- FÉL306G Statistics I
- Course in sociological theory taken alongside the MA programme
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.
Programme structure
The programme is 120 ECTS and is organised as two years of full-time study.
The programme structure varies depending on specialisation:
- Mandatory courses, 10 ECTS
- Restricted electives, 40 ECTS
- Free electives, 10 ECTS
- Final thesis, 60 ECTS
- Mandatory courses, 60 ECTS
- Restricted electives, 10 ECTS
- Free electives, 20 ECTS
- Final thesis, 30 ECTS
Organisation of teaching
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.
Main objectives
After completing the programme, students should, for example:
- have acquired a broader and more in-depth knowledge of criminology.
- have acquired an overview of crime in Iceland in an international context
- be familiar with the roles and various kinds of justice systems
Other
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 credits. Students can choose from two specialisations: Professional Master´s in Criminology or Research Master´s in Criminology. The MA Criminology program is completed by a 30 ECTS MA thesis.
Professional Master´s in Criminology: For students who want to focus on practical aspects of the speciality. 70 credits in mandatory courses, 10 credits in restricted electives and 10 credits in free electives. MA thesis: 30 ECTS.
Research Master´s in Criminology: For students who whish to emphasise research. 40 credits in mandatory courses, 30 credits in restrictive electives and 20 elective credits. MA thesis: 30 ECTS.On request it is possible to complete the MA Criminology program by a 60 ECTS MA thesis and subsequently reducing restricted elective credits.
- CV
- Statement of purpose
- Reference 1, Name and email
- Reference 2, Name and email
- Certified copies of diplomas and transcripts
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
Programme structure
Check below to see how the programme is structured.
- First year
- Fall
- Introduction to Qualitative Research
- Mastering the Master’s level -I: Launching your MA journey
- Social research methods
- Crime and Social Deviance
- Spring 1
- Regression analysis
- Applied Criminology
- Criminal Justice and Policing
- Not taught this semesterSexual Violence, Law and Justice
- Crime in Iceland
Introduction to Qualitative Research (FMÞ103F)
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.
Mastering the Master’s level -I: Launching your MA journey (FÉL302F)
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.
Social research methods (FÉL301F)
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.
Crime and Social Deviance (FÉL0A1F)
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.
Regression analysis (FMÞ501M)
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.
Applied Criminology (AFB001F)
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.
Criminal Justice and Policing (FÉL007F)
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.
Sexual Violence, Law and Justice (FÉL601M)
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?
Crime in Iceland (FÉL0A4F)
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.
- Second year
- Fall
- Introduction to Qualitative Research
- Not taught this semesterApplied Criminology
- MA thesis in Criminology
- Spring 1
- Regression analysis
- Mastering the Master’s level II: Navigating the final mile
- MA thesis in Criminology
Introduction to Qualitative Research (FMÞ103F)
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.
Applied Criminology (AFB001F)
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
MA thesis in Criminology (AFB401L)
MA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
Regression analysis (FMÞ501M)
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.
Mastering the Master’s level II: Navigating the final mile (FÉL429F)
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.
MA thesis in Criminology (AFB401L)
MA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
- Fall
- FMÞ103FIntroduction to Qualitative ResearchRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
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.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesFÉL302FMastering the Master’s level -I: Launching your MA journeyMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classFÉL301FSocial research methodsMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesFÉL0A1FCrime and Social DevianceMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Spring 2
FMÞ501MRegression analysisRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAFB001FApplied CriminologyMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classFÉL007FCriminal Justice and PolicingMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterFÉL601MSexual Violence, Law and JusticeMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionOver 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?
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesFÉL0A4FCrime in IcelandMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionWhat 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisites- Fall
- FMÞ103FIntroduction to Qualitative ResearchRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
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.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterAFB001FApplied CriminologyMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents 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
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAFB401LMA thesis in CriminologyMandatory (required) course30A mandatory (required) course for the programme30 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionMA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
Self-studyPrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis credits- Spring 2
FMÞ501MRegression analysisRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesFÉL429FMastering the Master’s level II: Navigating the final mileMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classAFB401LMA thesis in CriminologyMandatory (required) course30A mandatory (required) course for the programme30 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionMA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
Self-studyPrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis creditsSecond year- Fall
- FMÞ103FIntroduction to Qualitative ResearchRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
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.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesFÉL302FMastering the Master’s level -I: Launching your MA journeyMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classFÉL301FSocial research methodsMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesFÉL0A1FCrime and Social DevianceMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in class- Spring 2
FMÞ501MRegression analysisRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAFB001FApplied CriminologyMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classFÉL007FCriminal Justice and PolicingMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterFÉL601MSexual Violence, Law and JusticeMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionOver 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?
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesFÉL0A4FCrime in IcelandMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionWhat 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisites- Fall
- FMÞ103FIntroduction to Qualitative ResearchRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse Description
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.
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesNot taught this semesterAFB001FApplied CriminologyMandatory (required) course10A mandatory (required) course for the programme10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionStudents 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
Face-to-face learningDistance learningPrerequisitesAFB401LMA thesis in CriminologyMandatory (required) course30A mandatory (required) course for the programme30 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionMA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
Self-studyPrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis credits- Spring 2
FMÞ501MRegression analysisRestricted elective course10Restricted elective course, conditions apply10 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThis 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesFÉL429FMastering the Master’s level II: Navigating the final mileMandatory (required) course5A mandatory (required) course for the programme5 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionThe 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.
Face-to-face learningPrerequisitesAttendance required in classAFB401LMA thesis in CriminologyMandatory (required) course30A mandatory (required) course for the programme30 ECTS, creditsCourse DescriptionMA Thesis
More information on the schools website: https://ugla.hi.is/kerfi/view/page.php?sid=3458
Self-studyPrerequisitesPart of the total project/thesis credits