Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminal Justice

Program Overview

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Nipissing University's Criminal Justice program offers a balanced blend of theory and practice, preparing students for careers in policing, corrections, criminology, and criminal justice studies. With a flexible approach, students can tailor their education to their interests and career goals, gaining valuable practical experience through field placements and research opportunities. The program's experienced faculty and strong community connections provide students with a solid foundation for success in the criminal justice field.

Program Outline

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Degree Overview:

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Program:

Criminal Justice

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University:

Nipissing University

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Location:

North Bay, Ontario, Canada

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Overview:

The Criminal Justice program at Nipissing University provides students with a balanced combination of theory and practice in the field of criminal justice. The program offers a flexible approach, allowing students to choose from four streams: Policing, Corrections, Criminology, and Criminal Justice Studies. This allows students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals.

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Objectives:

The program aims to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities needed to succeed in a variety of criminal justice careers. Graduates will be prepared to work in law enforcement, corrections, victim services, research, and other fields related to criminal justice.

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Description:

The Criminal Justice program at Nipissing University is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education in the field of criminal justice. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, ensuring that students are prepared for the challenges and rewards of a career in criminal justice.

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Outline:

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Program Content:

• Common Core Courses: All students in the program complete a common core of courses in criminology, law, and research methods.
This provides a foundation for further study in the chosen stream.
• Stream-Specific Courses: Students then choose to specialize in one of the four streams:
• Policing:
This stream focuses on the criminal code, the young offenders system, and the skills and techniques needed for a successful career in policing.
• Criminology: This stream explores essential theories and methodologies used in the Criminology field, with courses focusing on areas like women and the criminal justice system, and youth in conflict with the law.
• Corrections: This stream prepares students for careers in corrections, with courses covering psychology, community reintegration, programming, interviewing, and administration.
• Criminal Justice Studies: This stream provides a broad knowledge of the criminal justice system, encompassing courses in sociology, psychology, and their relevance to criminal justice.

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Course Schedule:

• The program typically follows a semester-based system, with courses offered in fall and winter semesters.

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Modules:

• Policing:
• Introduction to Policing
• Criminal Law
• Criminal Procedure
• Community Policing
• Youth Justice
• Criminology:
• Introduction to Criminology
• Criminological Theories
• Research Methods in Criminology
• Crime and Gender
• Crime and Deviance
• Corrections:
• Introduction to Corrections
• Psychology of Offenders
• Community Corrections
• Institutional Corrections
• Program Design and Evaluation
• Criminal Justice Studies:
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Sociology of Law
• Psychology of Crime
• Criminal Justice Policy
• Victimology

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

• A variety of assessment methods are used in the program, including:
• Exams
• Assignments
• Presentations
• Research papers
• Field placements (where applicable)
• The specific assessment methods used may vary depending on the individual courses and modules.

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Assessment Criteria:

• Assessment criteria are based on the learning outcomes for each course and module.
• Students are assessed on their knowledge, understanding, critical thinking skills, and ability to apply their learning to real-world situations.

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Guest speakers
• Field trips
• Online learning (blended learning approach)
• The specific teaching methods used may vary depending on the individual courses and modules.

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Faculty:

• The program boasts experienced faculty members with expertise in various fields of criminal justice.
• Adjunct professors with practical experience from the field also contribute to the program.

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Unique Approaches:

• The program offers unique opportunities for students to gain practical experience, such as:
• Field placements
• Research assistantships
• Participation in student clubs and organizations (e.g., Alpha Phi Sigma, Criminal Justice Student Association)
• International exchange opportunities are also available, allowing students to broaden their perspectives.

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Careers:

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Career Paths:

• The Criminal Justice program at Nipissing University prepares graduates for a wide range of career paths within the criminal justice system, including:
• Police officer
• Correctional officer
• Probation officer
• Parole officer
• Crime analyst
• Research analyst
• Policy analyst
• Victim services worker
• Forensic investigator
• Lawyer
• Social worker
• The program also provides a strong foundation for further studies in law school, graduate programs in criminal justice, or other related fields.

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Career Opportunities:

• Graduates of the program have been successful in securing employment with:
• Police services (municipal, provincial, federal)
• Ministry of Correctional Services
• Correctional Service of Canada
• Canadian Armed Forces
• First Nations communities
• Private security agencies
• Research organizations
• Government agencies
• Non-profit organizations

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Career Outcomes:

• The program's graduates are well-prepared for a successful career in the criminal justice field, with many finding employment within six months of graduation.
• The program also boasts a high rate of graduates who pursue further education.

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Other:

• The program provides various support services to students, including:
• Academic advising
• Career advising
• Personal counselling
• Learning support services
• Financial aid and scholarships
• The program is recognized for its strong connections with the criminal justice community, providing students with access to networking opportunities and potential internship/employment placements.

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Summary:

The Criminal Justice program at Nipissing University is a comprehensive and well-rounded program that provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed for a successful career in the field. The program's flexible approach, emphasis on practical experience, and strong faculty contribute to its reputation as a leading program in Canadian universities.