Criminal Law and Procedure York University

Overview

The Criminal Law and Procedure programme at York University provides an advanced, interdisciplinary exploration of the most pressing challenges within the Canadian criminal justice system. This graduate specialisation is specifically structured to accommodate the schedules of busy professionals, offering a sophisticated blend of theoretical perspectives and practical legal applications. Students engage in rigorous analysis of doctrinal approaches while examining the historical foundations of legal institutions.

Why Criminal Law and Procedure at York University?

Studying at York University’s Osgoode Hall Law School allows students to learn from a distinguished faculty comprising judges, senior practitioners, and leading legal scholars. The programme is renowned for its focus on the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and its impact on criminal litigation. Students benefit from a professional networking environment, access to specialised workshops, and comprehensive career support tailored to the legal sector. The curriculum is designed to re-kindle professional enthusiasm and deepen expertise in complex litigation and policy issues.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 3138 per semester
• National fee: CAD 7981 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 36 credits, including a research component. Modules may include:

• Criminal Law & the Charter
• Issues in Criminal Law
• Problems of Proof
• Theory and Practice of Sentencing
• Corporate and Financial Crimes and Compliance
• Indigenous People and the Criminal Justice System
• Mental Health and the Criminal Law
• Prisons and Prisoners
• Wrongful Convictions

Careers with Criminal Law and Procedure

Graduates of this programme often advance their careers as litigation lawyers, representing clients at various levels of court, including trials and appeals. The degree supports professionals moving into senior roles within the Ministry of the Attorney General, criminal defence firms, and public interest advocacy organisations. Non-legal professionals, such as those in research or policy development, use the qualification to enhance their expertise in justice system administration. Alumni have successfully secured positions as benchers for the Law Society of Ontario and other influential regulatory bodies.