Criminal Justice

The Diploma in Criminal Justice program provides a social justice perspective on criminal justice systems and processes that form the foundation for ethical, responsible, and professional practice in the criminal justice field. This applied program incorporates classroom and community learning experiences with theoretical frameworks for practice. Topics covered include the interagency working of police, courts, corrections, and social service agencies; the impacts of colonization and the resulting intergenerational trauma of Indigenous Peoples; and a critical understanding and social justice approach to current challenges in modern society. A core curriculum forms the foundation for the first year of studies in the program; in the second year, students can choose which pathway of courses best meets their professional and academic destination.

Graduates of the Criminal Justice program leave with a broad base of theoretical knowledge, skills, and abilities suitable for a diverse range of entry-level criminal justice positions, including law enforcement (public, military, deputy sheriffs, by-law enforcement, private security); adult, youth, and community corrections; victim services; restorative justice; customs border services; social and community service organizations; and other related opportunities. Graduates apply their knowledge of processes, procedures, and practices to work with diverse individuals and populations, and use of critical thinking skills and evidence-informed decision making in all aspects of practice in criminal justice.

What You’ll Learn

• Apply knowledge from a variety of disciplines to problems and issues, in order to explore practical solutions as they relate to the criminal justice system.
• Explain the interconnections among the political system, mental health system, human services system, child and family services, and the criminal justice system to inform a critical perspective.
• Assess social and criminal justice policies and practices as they relates to emerging and current challenges within the criminal justice field.
• Apply knowledge of diversity and worldviews, with an emphasis on Indigenous experiences within the social and justice systems, to support individuals and communities in positive and respectful ways.