We, the students, express our concern regarding the current classification of Criminology as a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree. We believe that Criminology is a field with a strong empirical and scientific foundation, and its classification as a B.A. degree may not adequately reflect the interdisciplinary nature of the subject matter.

Criminology involves the study of crime, criminal behaviour, and the criminal justice system. It requires a comprehensive understanding of sociology, psychology, law, and other scientific disciplines. We believe that a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Criminology would better align with the rigorous and evidence-based nature of the field, or students can be given the option of either doing a B.A. or B.S. as many programs at York University offer.

Our concerns are as follows:

Scientific Foundation: Criminology relies heavily on scientific research methods and data analysis. A B.S. degree designation would better reflect the emphasis on empirical evidence and research skills required in the field.

Interdisciplinary Nature: Criminology draws from various disciplines, including sociology, psychology, and law. A B.S. degree would acknowledge the multidisciplinary nature of the subject, allowing students to gain a well-rounded understanding of the complex issues surrounding crime and justice.

Professional Relevance: Many careers in the field of criminology, such as forensic science, criminal profiling, and crime analysis, require a strong background in scientific principles. A B.S. degree would enhance the professional relevance of criminology graduates in these specialized fields.

Global Recognition: Internationally, Criminology is often recognized as a scientific discipline. Aligning the degree with this perspective would enhance the global recognition of graduates and their qualifications.

By signing this petition, we request that the York University administration reconsider the classification of Criminology as a B.A. degree and explore the possibility of reclassifying it as a B.S. degree. We believe that this change will better serve the academic and professional needs of students pursuing a career in Criminology.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. We appreciate your support!