Criminal Justice, Diploma

Program at a glance

Credential

Diploma

Area of Study

Arts & Humanities

Human Services

Study options

Full-time

Work experience

Co-op / internship

Open to International

Yes

Length

Two years

Apply Today

At a glance image

Fascinating, complicated and complex

Start in September

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, and theoretical frameworks to explore topics including 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.

Located at our Lansdowne campus, the Criminal Justice program is two years long, with an optional internship. A core curriculum forms the foundation for the first year of studies; in the second year you can choose which stream of courses best meets your professional and academic goals.

Graduate and enter directly into the criminal justice field. Or transfer your courses and enter into year-three of a bachelor’s degree program.

Find a full list of criminal justice courses and breakdown of program Year 1 and Year 2 on the academic calendar.

Gain hands-on experience in community

You’ll make real connections with the local community through volunteer opportunities and service projects.

Volunteering demonstrates your commitment to giving back to your community, and for most employers, volunteer experience counts as job experience. You'll gain volunteer hours in a service-related position, and a volunteer fair is arranged each year to help you learn more about volunteer opportunities within the country.

Enter the criminal justice field

You will graduate from this program 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. You will be able to apply your 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.

Continue your studies in a bachelor's degree program

Courses transfer to various universities. After completing your first two years at Camosun, you'll be eligible to apply for admission into the third year of many degree programs, including:

Bachelor of Arts — Criminology at Vancouver Island University
Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies at Royal Roads University (block transfer)
Bachelor of Arts, Major in Criminology at Simon Fraser University
Bachelor of Arts in Community Criminal Justice at Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Bachelor of Arts Criminal Justice degree at University of the Fraser Valley
Bachelor of Applied Arts in Justice Studies at Lethbridge College (block transfer)
Bachelor of Arts — Criminal Justice at Mount Royal University
Bachelor of Arts — Criminology at University of Alberta
Bachelor of Arts, Major in Criminology at University of Ottawa

An investment in your career

Two years at Camosun can prepare you for a career in the criminal justice system or provide the first two years of studies towards a bachelor's degree.

In demand

There are over 500,000 criminal justice-related jobs in Canada. Upon receiving your two-year diploma, you’ll be ready for entry-level positions in correctional services, customs, law enforcement, and services to young offenders.

If you continue on to complete a bachelor’s degree in Criminology, you’ll be eligible for additional employment opportunities in such fields as probation, parole, immigration, research, and counselling within institutions.

Estimated tuition

Effective from September 1, 2021 to August 31, 2022.

$7,978 (domestic)
$31,950 (international)

*Tuition fees vary depending on course selection.

Additional Student Fees

Scholarships, bursaries and awards

There are many financial resources to tap into while you are at college to help with your education and living costs. Apply for scholarships & awards that are specifically given to program students, as well as awards specific to the School of Arts and Science.

You may also want to visit Financial Aid & Awards for more information about funding.

A great student experience

"Camosun was definitely a good stepping stone for me to continue on to university. The knowledge I received while there has provided me with a problem-free transition to the learning I am currently receiving in third year at the University of Ottawa. With small class sizes, it is easy to build solid relationships with professors, and it has been a push in the right direction for a career in the CJS. A positive experience in every aspect."
Tanner Northrup

"I have nothing but good things to say about Camosun College. My teachers were always open for discussion, knew me by name, and always encouraged me to excel and aim for higher goals. The high standard for academic excellence within the Criminal Justice program allowed me to make an easy transition from Camosun to the University of Ottawa, where I continue my studies."

Carmelle Churchill

"I recommend the Criminal Justice program at Camosun for anyone pursuing a career or further education in the field of criminology.

The material is well taught, well organized, and very relevant for practical applications and in academia. The bureaucracy of the program is organized to be conducive for first-time students, relieving student stress during course selection and eventually diploma application. Most classes are fairly small; there is a lot of student-professor interaction and professors are very available. An active Criminal Justice Undergrad Society adds to a fun and friendly atmosphere leading to excellent peer resources in time for finals. Even years after graduation and across great distances, I am still in regular contact with dozens of Camosun alumni who are likely to be life-long friends. Camosun is definitely the best school I ever attended."

Jonathon Ranney

"I finished the Criminal Justice program and have since received my BA in Criminology from SFU and am currently attending law school at UBC. Camosun's Criminal Justice program provided a great foundation for my education. The teaching staff had varied experiences, and Victoria provided a great backdrop to assess the many career options available with a criminal justice degree. I am very thankful I chose Camosun College."

Catherine Beston

Curriculum & courses

Course

Course name

Credits

Tuition

Admission requirements

Ready to get started? Get your application in for the September intake.

When you apply you will need to submit proof that you meet the following admission requirements.

Tip: Where a letter grade is specified, you must have proof of that grade or higher.

One of:

C+ in English 12
C in English 12 Camosun Alternative

For more detailed information about this program and specific admission requirements, see the Academic Calendar.

Academic Calendar

Our Teaching Staff

Camosun College is fiercely proud of the excellent quality of its instruction. Our teaching staff are experienced, inspiring and supportive of our students' individual journeys.

Wendy Taylor

Chair, Criminal Justice

Blair Fisher

Instructor, Criminal Justice

I graduated from the Camosun Criminal Justice Program in the early 1990’s and went on to continue my Criminology Degree at Simon Fraser University. I ...

Kelli Moorhouse

Instructor, Criminal Justice

Kelli is a graduate of the Criminal Justice program at Camosun College. She holds Masters Degrees in Criminal Justice and Social Work. Her best memory ...