Overview

Channel your passion to help others and build the kind of communities that inspire us all. 

Deepen your sense of duty with learning broad enough to see justice in a holistic way and focused enough to have you prepared to make an immediate difference. Become the collaborative, critical thinker ready to put your ethical commitment to your community to great use.

Go purposefully in the pursuit of justice.

Three females in a counselling meeting

Earn 2 credentials

  • Honours Bachelor of Applied Science in Justice Studies
  • Diploma in Justice & Community Services OR Police Foundations

Your degree is granted by the University of Guelph and diploma by Humber Polytechnic. You must complete all four years of study to receive the credentials.

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Highlights

  • Learn about the Canadian justice system
  • Understand social justice issues and discover how to support communities through inclusive programs and restorative approaches to crime prevention
  • Study diversity, inclusion and equity; mental health and first aid; and globalization
  • Discover how services such as counselling, forensics and policing support and strengthen communities

Diploma options

As part of your studies, you will will choose one of two diplomas: 

  • Diploma in Community & Justice Services: Focuses on social issues and explores the development of community programs, ways to work with both victims and offenders, and methods of crime prevention.
  • Diploma in Police Foundations: Prepares you for a career in the various levels of law enforcement in the Canadian justice system.
Work Experience

Complete 100 hours of workplace experience in your second year and 100 hours in your third year.

Past placements include:

  • Various police services
  • Law offices
  • Ministry of the Attorney General
  • St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton, Forensic Psychiatry Program
  • Private investigation/security companies
  • Canada Border Services Agency
  • Toronto South Detention Centre/Ontario Ministry of the Solicitor General
  • Elizabeth Fry Society
  • Public Safety Canada
  • Toronto Court Services
  • Ministry of Children, Community & Social Services
  • Special Investigations Unit (SIU)

Note: You may be required to complete a Vulnerable Sector Screening and/or Criminal Reference Check prior to placement.

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man with blond hair in front of Blaney McMurtry LLP
Courses

Popular course: Investigative Techniques

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  • Crime & Criminal Justice
  • Forensic Techniques
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Youth & the Law
  • Ethics & the Justice System
  • Addictions & Mental Health
  • Federal Legislation

Note: Courses listed above are a selection from all four years of the program. Review the program overview to get a course breakdown by year.

Program overview

Opportunities

Awards and competitions

Join our award-winning teams to represent the University in justice case competitions against other postsecondary institutions (local, regional and abroad). Solve complex problems, earn valuable experience and network with top professionals.

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Wrongful convictions

Join the work of Innocence Canada to work on correcting wrongful convictions. Alpha Phi Sigma is a partner with Innocence Canada and hosts a Wrongful Conviction Week each year.

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Get certified

Register to take part in mental health first-aid training, and have it officially recognized on your Co-Curricular Record.

co-curricular record

"

My favourite class was the Senior Seminar. I focused on different aspects of victimology throughout the semester and engaged in research, discussion and critical analyses.

- Ruth O., graduated 2024, Pursuing her Master of Arts in Criminal Justice and Public Policy
Ruth O.
Careers & Pathways

Future options include...

  • Lawyer
  • Court Reporter
  • Police Officer
  • Bylaw Enforcement Officer
  • Parole/Probation Officer
  • Border Services Officer
  • Forensic Investigator
  • Victim Services Worker
  • Crime & Intelligence Analyst
  • Anti-money Laundering Investigator
  • Corporate Security Manager
  • Fraud Analyst
  • Corporate Investigator
  • Certified Protection Professional

Graduate school and further education

  • Law School (local/international)
  • Bachelor of Education (Teachers College)
  • Master of Public Administration
  • Master of Arts in Political Science
  • Master of Arts in Social Justice
  • Master of Arts in Criminology & Criminal Justice Policy
  • Master of Disaster & Emergency Management
  • Graduate Certificate in Alternative Dispute Resolution
  • Graduate Certificate in Insurance Management - Property & Casualty
  • Graduate Certificate in Advanced Investigations & Enforcement
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Note: Some careers and entry into further education may require additional study.

If you don't see your career goal listed here, talk to us! There are many more options.

Pursue your LLB or LLM in London, England

If you're interested in attending law school abroad, take advantage of our partnerships in London, England.

Earn a senior status law degree (LLB) with City St George's, University of London in just two years without an LSAT requirement or a Master of Law (LLM) through distance learning with the University of London in one year (full-time) or up to five years (part-time). Both with reduced tuition.

 

Support

Transitioning to university can be overwhelming, but we're here to support you every step of the way. 

Check out the supports available to you. For more information on support services, visit our Student Experience page.

Instructors in the industry

You are taught by professionals currently working in their field. They will tell you what they’re experiencing in law offices, police services, corporate offices, emergency services, etc. in real time.

Supported learning
  • Your classmates/cohort will move through the program together.
  • Your instructors open doors to diverse professional networks. Their mentorship can guide you to new opportunities.
  • Your program team is eager to assist you. With everything in one building and a small student population, they’re a footstep or email away. Your team includes your Academic Advisor, Placement Coordinator, Career Coordinator, Liaison Librarian and Student Life Coordinator.
Safe spaces

Once you experience it, you’ll recognize it. U of GH creates a tremendous sense of safety through the support of the Chairs, Instructors and staff. Feel comfortable to share your voice and care for your mental health.