In Canada, the interaction between crime and the criminal justice system holds a significant role in upholding order and justice within our society. Crime refers to actions that go against the laws we’ve set, and the criminal justice system is society’s way of responding to those actions. This system involves different components, such as law enforcement agencies that investigate and keep the peace, courts that make decisions about consequences for rule-breakers, and facilities where those found guilty of crimes may be placed.
At Douglas College, the Criminology (Associate of Arts) program empowers students to be change-makers, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and inspiration to contribute meaningfully to the ever-evolving discourse on crime and justice. Join Douglas College in deciphering the challenges of crime, advocating for fairness, and shaping a brighter future in Canada.
About the Criminology (Associate of Arts) program
As a student in the Criminology program, you’ll learn about all things crime-related from instructors with experience as lawyers, youth workers, police officers, policymakers, and psychologists. Whether you aspire to work within the criminal justice system, contribute to social reform, or engage in research, the Criminology program at Douglas College aims to teach students the fundamental aspects of human society and its responses to crime.
Key information
- Faculty: Humanities & Social Sciences
- Credential type: Associate Degree
- Length: 4 semesters
- Credits: 60.00
What you’ll learn in the program
Studying criminology opens the door to a fascinating exploration of the world of crime, justice, and human behavior. As an interdisciplinary domain that draws insights from other fields like sociology, psychology, and law, the study of criminology invites students to unravel the mysteries behind the criminal mind and why humans engage in unlawful behavior.
Examples of courses in the program include:
- CRIM 1100: Introduction to the Criminal Justice Systems
- An overview of criminological theories and concepts, laying the foundation for further exploration
- CRIM 1160: The Canadian Legal System
- Gain insights into the history, development, and present-day operation of the legal system in Canada
- CRIM 2140: Interviewing and Professional Skills
- Develop effective interviewing techniques and learn about the dynamics of interpersonal communication and professional behavior
- CRIM 2252: Sociological Explanations of Criminal Behaviour
- Examine sociological, socio-cultural, and socio-psychological explanations to understand the underlying causes of criminal behavior
- CRIM 2253: Youth, Crime & the Law
- Investigate the intersection of identification, reaction, and response to youth crimes
- CRIM 3335: Human Rights and Civil Liberties
- Explore the complexities of human rights by focusing on the Canadian Charter of Rights and exploring the relationship between government and the individual
- CRIM 3395: Terrorism
- Analyze the phenomenon of violent extremism and terrorism, their origins, impacts, and responses
- CRIM 4470: Gambling in Canada
- Delve into the study of gambling practices and their connections to concerns of organized crime, money laundering, fraud, and corruption
Admission requirements
All applicants for admission to the College must satisfy at least ONE of the following criteria:
- British Columbia secondary school graduation or equivalent;
- One course short of British Columbia secondary school graduation or equivalent;
- Nineteen (19) years of age or older on the first day of the first semester of attendance;
- Seventeen (17) years of age on the first day of the first semester of attendance and has not been enrolled at a school for a minimum of one year;
- Completion of a certificate or equivalent from a special needs program and has been in school for 12 years or has received an Evergreen or Leaving School certificate.
English proficiency requirements
Applicants seeking admission to Douglas College programs must demonstrate a satisfactory level of English language proficiency to ensure successful academic engagement. This requirement ensures that students can adequately comprehend, communicate, and participate in coursework and discussions conducted in English. Here are some examples:
- TOEFL iBT – minimum score 83
- TOEFL Essentials – minimum score of 9 (no score below 8 on any individual section)
- IELTS (academic) – minimum overall band test score 6.5
- Duolingo English Test – Minimum overall score of 110
Learn more about the College’s General Admission Requirements and English Proficiency Requirements.
Future Career Opportunities
A criminology degree is a gateway to a future with meaningful career opportunities beyond traditional law enforcement roles. As criminology graduates, students will have gained a well-rounded understanding of human behavior, social structures, and the intricacies of crime and justice systems in Canada. With insight into criminal psychology and behavior, they can be invaluable in the following careers:
- Bylaw Officer
- Crisis Services Coordinator
- Deputy Sheriff Association of Threat Assessment Professional
- Forensics Specialist
- Outreach/Victims Support Educator
- Police Officer
- Polygraph Technician
- Probation Officer
- Transit Police
- Youth Justice Worker
