This PhD programme develops expertise in independent research on criminological phenomena, including the causes of criminal behaviour, penal systems, alternatives to justice, and social reintegration, with emerging research areas covering Indigenous justice, economic crime, radicalization, and sexual delinquency. The credential awarded is a Philosophiæ doctor (Ph.D.). The programme comprises 90 credits, with a normal full-time duration of four years (eight sessions), structured around coursework, comprehensive examinations, and an original thesis. Instruction is delivered in French, with English reading comprehension also required. New students are admitted in the fall term only.
Requirements
Admission Requirements: Applicants must hold a master's degree in criminology or an equivalent qualification, or a master's in a related discipline such as law, psychology, psychoeducation, sociology, political science, or social work, or in another field such as geography. Before applying, candidates must secure written confirmation from a professor willing to supervise the thesis. Non-francophone applicants must demonstrate French proficiency through the TCF test (minimum 600/699 on the mandatory sections and 10/20 on written expression) or by completing an approved French course. All applicants must also demonstrate English reading comprehension through a VEPT score of 53/70 or higher, completion of intermediate English coursework, or an exemption based on prior English-language education.
