Seminar in Cyber-Criminology (SOC*4460)

Code and section: SOC*4460*01

Term: Winter 2025

Instructor: Andrew Nevin

Details

SOC*4460 will involve in-depth discussions about topics within the emerging subfield of cybercriminology.
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 cyberbullying, cyberstalking, digital piracy, and hacking, among many others that demonstrate the diverse risks facing today’s digital citizens. Ultimately, we will engage with the complexities associated with new patterns of offending and victimization that have emerged from 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 cybercriminology
• 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 cybersecurity professionals address the challenges associated with technology-enabled crime
• Cultivate skills for strong writing, presentations, respectful discussion, 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 likely determined based on a combination of weekly reading reflections, in-class participation, presenting and leading on a course topic, and a scaffolded written essay. Course readings are TBD.

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. As such, the assessment structure is subject to change prior to finalizing the syllabus in January.

Syllabus

Attachment	Size
SOC4460 - Web Outline - W25.pdf	110.89 KB