Nov 22, 2024  
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Learn More About Criminology Diploma


Criminology involves the study of crime, criminal behaviour and responses to law-breaking. The principle elements of criminology are social science theory, institutional and systems impacts, and research methods that explore all aspects of crime, criminal behaviour and justice issues. The individual and social impact of crime will be a critical component of your research.

Your two-year Criminology diploma is the first step toward criminal justice related employment and/or further studies in criminology. The diploma program consists of 60 credits of university transferable coursework, completed on a full-time basis over two years (four academic semesters). Options for part-time study are also available.

Core 100-level courses include introductory topics in statistics, psychology, sociology, criminology, the criminal justice system and Canadian law and politics, giving you a well-rounded knowledge base. A variety of 200-level topics allow you to advance in your field of work, developing expertise in areas of criminal and deviant behaviour, criminal law, policing, corrections and more.

In addition, you are able to choose four elective courses among a host of university transfer subjects including anthropology, biology, business, chemistry, criminology, economics, English, equity and social justice, fine arts, First Nations studies, French, geography, history, mathematics, philosophy, physics, political science, psychology, sociology, Spanish and women’s studies.

The diploma also provides an excellent foundation if you wish to pursue university studies in law. Students interested in transferring are encouraged to speak to an NIC educational advisor and the receiving institution advisor as well.

Career Opportunities

As a graduate, you will possess employable skills in nearly every aspect of the justice system and will be well- prepared for career pathways and entry-level employment in law enforcement, the court systems and corrections.

You will qualify for a range of careers, including occupations in the criminal justice system, with Crown corporations and in the private sector. Career positions may include, but would not be limited to, correctional officer, court reporter, immigration officer, researcher, legal assistant, First Nations band officer, insurance adjuster, youth court worker, probation officer, police officer, crime analyst and much more.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What occupations are related to criminology?
    A criminology credential can launch a variety of careers. These include occupations in the criminal justice system, with Crown corporations, and in the private sector, which call for the knowledge and skills you will acquire in your studies. The following list provides some examples:
    • airport security office
    • bailiff
    • bail supervisor
    • by-law enforcement officer
    • campus security officer
    • casino security/investigation
    • community relations officer
    • correctional officer
    • court clerk
    • court reporter
    • customs and immigration officer
    • credit investigator
    • crime analyst
    • criminal investigator
    • First Nations band officer
    • immigration officer
    • insurance investigator or adjuster
    • law enforcement administrator
    • legal assistant
    • loss prevention specialist
    • national security (CSIS)
    • offender support worker
    • paralegal assistant
    • parole officer
    • police dispatcher
    • police officer
    • policy analyst
    • pre-trial services officer
    • probation officer
    • resource management officer
    • researcher
    • sheriff
    • women’s transition home worker
    • victim services specialist
    • volunteer manager
    • youth court worker