Other University Programs & Transfer Options

Criminology

• 2-year Diploma Program
• Program Fees: Domestic Students, International Students
• Apply for Admission: Forms and Information

VIU also offers a Bachelor of Arts, Major in Criminology.

The Program

Criminology is an interdisciplinary science that focuses on law and its interpretation by the courts, patterns in crime, the explanation of deviant and criminal behaviour, and society’s reaction to law-breaking. The program introduces students to criminal law, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and case-law decisions made by the courts. Students will examine in separate courses the three main components of the criminal justice system—police, courts and corrections—that form an organized response to crime. The program addresses the trends and correlates of crime, including the influences of age, ethnicity, gender, and social class. The major explanations for crime try to account for these patterns by looking at historical, individual and social causes. The criminological focus is broadened with courses from other disciplines in the Social Sciences and Humanities.

The program aims to provide students with conceptual, critical and applied skills to work in fields where a legal/justice focus is beneficial. The curriculum emphasizes development of professional and applied skills though training in professional ethics, conflict mediation, use of information technology for researching relevant topics, writing, presenting data, and working in small groups on specific tasks. Although the core of the curriculum is centred on justice-related issues, students will find the program applies equally to areas in the private sector where research competence, project management, legal analysis and communication skills are essential.

Students who successfully complete the first two years of the program with a minimum “C” average and a minimum “C-” grade for each required course, may apply to receive a Diploma.

A free information session for prospective students is usually held in early spring. Check with the Advising Centre for more details, 250-740-6410, or visit viu.ca/infosessions.

Career Opportunity

Graduates of the Diploma program have pursued careers associated with the criminal justice system in the public and private sector in areas such as probation, parole, policing, customs and immigration, courts, working with youths, and employment in federal or provincial corrections.

Admission Requirements

• General admission requirements apply.
• English 12 with minimum “C+” or equivalent.
• Principles of Math 11 or Applications of Math 11 with minimum “C”, or equivalent.

Notes on Admission

• Depending on the number of applications, an assessment of writing skills and an interview may be required.
• Enrolment in this program is limited. Students who meet or exceed the minimum admission requirements may not necessarily be admitted to the program.

Start Date and Application Deadline

The program starts in September and applications are accepted between November 15 and March 31. For further information regarding late applications, program contacts, and scheduled information sessions check the Program Availability List.

Program Outline

* Students who achieve a grade of “B+” or better in one of ENGL 115, 125, or 135 do not have to take additional English credits; an elective should be taken in its place.

Updated July 23, 2010