Law and Society York University

Overview

The Law and Society programme at York University offers students a unique opportunity to examine the law as a fundamental expression of social and political development. As one of the oldest and largest legal studies initiatives in North America, it provides a robust framework for exploring different understandings of law through international and comparative lenses.

Why Law and Society at York University?

Choosing this programme means joining a community with over 30 years of history and nearly 1,000 active majors. Students benefit from the expertise of innovative professors who bring diverse training into the classroom, fostering a tight-knit environment for lively debate. The curriculum draws from philosophy, anthropology, and criminology to build essential skills in critical analysis and research.

The university provides significant hands-on opportunities, including field work at the Archives of Ontario and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. Students can also engage in practical projects, such as reporting on active court cases or completing art-based research assignments. Networking is further encouraged through the Law and Society Students’ Association, connecting like-minded peers.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 41526 per year
• National fee: CAD 8536 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to provide a broad socio-legal foundation while allowing for interdisciplinary exploration. Modules may include:

• Socio-legal Studies
• Writing: Process and Practice
• Modes of Reasoning
• History of Evolution
• American Sign Language
• Philosophy
• Anthropology
• Criminology
• Rights and Obligations

Careers with Law and Society

Graduates are well-positioned to enter a variety of professional fields that require a deep understanding of the law's role in modern society. The interdisciplinary training provided by the programme prepares students for roles in journalism, government, and policy research. Many alumni also find success in academia or pursue further professional designations.