Community and Justice Services

Program Overview

Centennial College's Community and Justice Services program equips students with the knowledge and skills to work in diverse community and justice settings. Through a blend of in-class instruction, online learning, and field placements, students gain expertise in prevention, intervention, and rehabilitation strategies, as well as practical skills in communication, group dynamics, and case management. Graduates are prepared for careers as correctional officers, probation and parole officers, youth justice workers, and other roles in community and justice organizations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Community and Justice Services program at Centennial College is designed for individuals passionate about law and crime and aspire to assist at-risk individuals and communities. The program equips students with expert knowledge and practical skills to work in diverse settings, addressing the needs of youth and adult populations at risk, incarcerated, involved in the criminal justice system, or engaged in rehabilitation programs.

Objectives:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of prevention, intervention, and rehabilitative strategies in community and justice settings.
• Enhance practical communication skills to effectively interact with clients and colleagues.
• Acquire knowledge of various treatment approaches to address the needs of individuals involved in the criminal justice system.
• Gain expertise in group dynamics and facilitation techniques to foster positive interactions and support within groups.
• Develop proficiency in program development and facilitation to create and implement effective interventions.

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The Community and Justice Services program employs a blended teaching approach, combining in-class instruction, online learning, and hands-on field placements. This approach provides students with a comprehensive educational experience that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Faculty:

The program is facilitated by industry experts with extensive experience in community and justice services. Faculty members bring real-world knowledge and diverse perspectives into the classroom, enriching the learning experience for students.

Unique Approaches:

• Field Placements: Students engage in over 400 hours of field placements in various community and justice settings, including jails, group homes, community centers, courthouses, and schools.
These placements provide invaluable hands-on experience and foster meaningful connections with professionals in the field.
• Global Citizenship and Equity Portfolio: Students develop a portfolio documenting their engagement with the College's signature Global Citizenship and Equity (GC&E) competencies.
This portfolio showcases their commitment to diversity, inclusion, and social justice in their professional practice.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

Graduates of the Community and Justice Services program can pursue diverse career paths in community and justice organizations, including:

• Correctional Officer
• Probation and Parole Officer
• Youth Justice Worker
• Victim Services Advocate
• Community Development Worker
• Restorative Justice Facilitator

Opportunities and Outcomes:

The program prepares graduates to work in a variety of settings, including:

• Correctional facilities
• Community centers
• Courts
• Schools
• Non-profit organizations
• Government agencies
Graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and communities, contributing to a more just and equitable society.