Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Spring 2026 - CRIM 862 G100

Research Methods III: Qualitative Methods (3)

Class Number: 1090

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Jan 5 – Apr 10, 2026: Wed, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A range of research techniques generally subsumed under the rubric of qualitative research including field research, interview techniques, historical and legal research, and documentary analysis. Emphasis will be on the logic underlying such inquiry, the advantages and limitations associated with different sources of information and procedures, and the processes by which analytical rigor is achieved. Students enrolling in this course are expected to have a solid background in undergraduate qualitative research methods, equivalent to CRIM 321.

COURSE DETAILS:

CRIM 862 is an advanced (but not too advanced…) graduate seminar on qualitative research methods in criminology that mixes literature, discussion and research experience. The goals for the course include: 

  • Demonstrate understanding of the logic of qualitative inquiry and how it is distinct from and complementary to quantitative inquiry.  
  • Demonstrate a theoretical, practical, and critical understanding of qualitative research. 
  • Critically assess a variety of qualitative research methods. 
  • Identify and critically assess issues specific to qualitative approaches and techniques (e.g., methodological considerations, ethics, interpretation, and assessment). 
  • Demonstrate understanding of the process of qualitative data collection and analysis.  
  • Gain knowledge of diverse approaches to data analysis, including qualitative data analysis software 
  • Design and conduct an original qualitative research project that aligns with your own interests and curiosities (i.e., propose research project, obtain ethics approval, collect, and analyze data).  
  • Prepare a written report that demonstrates understanding of research processes and presentation of qualitative research findings.  
  • Further develop writing and presentation skills commensurate with graduate level work (e.g., present findings in class symposium).  

Grading

  • TCPS certification (Pass/Fail) 0%
  • Research proposal (Pass/Fail) 0%
  • Seminar participation including weekly reading summaries 30%
  • Term Research Project - class presentation 20%
  • Term Research Project - final written research report 50%

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

All required readings for the course will be available online.

RECOMMENDED READING:

If you would like to a background text as a resource if you have a limited background in qualitative methods consider: 

Tracy, S. J. (2025). Qualitative research methods: Collecting evidence, crafting analysis, communicating impact. (3rd Edition) New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons. 

Hennink, M., Bailey, A., & Hutter, I. (2020). Qualitative research methods. (2nd Edition). London: Sage. 


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Graduate Studies Notes:

Important dates and deadlines for graduate students are found here: http://www.sfu.ca/dean-gradstudies/current/important_dates/guidelines.html. The deadline to drop a course with a 100% refund is the end of week 2. The deadline to drop with no notation on your transcript is the end of week 3.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.