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- 50th Anniversary
CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE & INNOVATION
For 50 years, SFU’s School of Criminology has been at the forefront of global research and education, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in criminology and criminal justice, while shaping generations of leaders in the field.
We are thrilled to celebrate this significant milestone as we look back at our achievements and forward to the future.
Our Impact
The School has consistently produced impactful research and maintained high teaching excellence. Over the years, we have built a reputation that has attracted many collaborations and partnerships with governmental and non-profit agencies, solidifying our School's status as an institution with a strong focus on applied criminal justice research.
Some research highlights and policy influence
- Victimology. is a pioneer in the study of victimology. He authored and co-authored dozens of books on the topic. Even after many years of retirement, hE remains active in the field, continuing to contribute articles.
- John Lowman’s research on sex work contributed to law reform. He also conducted research along with Ted Palys on research confidentiality, proposing statutory protections for confidentiality in social science research.
- Forensic Entomology. is one of the leading scholars in forensic entomology in Canada. Her scholarship bridges biology and criminology, reinforcing the scientific credibility of forensic entomology as courtroom evidence.
- Environmental Criminology and Crime Pattern Theory. Patricia and Paul Brantingham are pioneers of environmental criminology. They analyzed how urban design, land use, and city layout affect crime patterns. Patricia helped develop crime pattern theory and worked extensively with police departments and community organizations to come up with practical applications for crime prevention.
- Restorative Justice. Elizabeth Elliot’s work emphasized the humanity of individuals involved in the criminal justice system, advocating for approaches that prioritize healing and community over punishment.
DID YOU KNOW?
Alumnus and adjunct professor Kim Rossmo is the pioneer of geographic profiling-an investigative technique used to help locate serial criminals.
Our innovative research centres tackle today’s pressing issues in criminology and criminal justice. Our innovative research centres tackle today’s pressing issues in criminology and criminal justice. From forensic science to cybercrime and justice policy, our centres give our students hands-on opportunities to engage in meaningful research and create lasting community impact.
- Centre for Forensic Research
- Forensic Entomology Laboratory
- Centre for Restorative Justice
- International Cybercrime Research Centre
In Memoriam
We honour the faculty members who are no longer with us, but whose legacy left a lasting mark on our School, community, and beyond.
Looking forward
Looking ahead, the School of Criminology remains committed to excellence and innovation—preparing the future generation of criminologists, scholars, and practitioners to meet the evolving challenges of justice in our community, Canada, and beyond.