Advanced Seminar in Criminology (SOC*4460)

Code and section: SOC*4460*02

Term: Winter 2026

Instructor: Andrew Nevin

Details

SOC*4460: ADVANCED SEMINAR IN CRIMINOLOGY
“SEMINAR IN CYBER-CRIMINOLOGY”
University of Guelph
Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Winter 2026
Section 02: Wednesday 11:30am-2:20pm, Location TBD
Instructor: Dr. Andrew D. Nevin | anevin@uoguelph.ca

SOC*4460 is a 1.00-credit intensive seminar course that facilitates in-depth discussions about topics within the emerging subfield of cyber-criminology. During the semester, we will read and discuss theoretical and empirical research on cybercrime, online deviance, and the complex intersections between digital technologies and the criminal justice system. This will involve a consideration of various forms of online offending, including trolling, cyberbullying, cyberstalking, digital piracy, and hacking, among many others that demonstrate the diverse risks facing today’s digital citizens. We will engage with the complexities associated with new patterns of offending and victimization that have emerged alongside technological developments. Throughout the course, we will predominantly situate our learning within the contexts of Canada and the United States.
This course has several learning outcomes. By the end of the semester, students will be able to:
• Demonstrate sophisticated knowledge of core concepts and debates in the field of cyber-criminology
• Approach traditional criminological theories with a critical lens in terms of their applicability to online spaces, while thinking critically about the possibility of developing new cyber-specific theories of crime
• Develop a deeper understanding of how policymakers, law enforcement, and citizens address the challenges associated with technology-enabled crime
• Propose an original empirical research study to address pressing questions related to cybercrime offending, victimization, or institutional responses
• Cultivate skills for respectful discussion, strong writing, presentations, and group work
This course will be a seminar-style format with extensive opportunities for active participation in class. Students will take turns leading discussions on various course topics and there is an expectation that all students will come prepared to ask critical questions and share their ideas. Students’ grades will be determined based on a combination of weekly reading reflections, in-class participation and engagement, a presentation to lead one of the weekly discussions, and a scaffolded written research proposal assignment. Course readings are TBD but will be journal articles and book chapters made available to students on CourseLink.
Please note that this draft outline is for informational purposes only and a complete course syllabus will be provided via CourseLink on the first day of classes. The weekly topics and assessment structure are subject to change prior to finalizing the syllabus in January.