Criminal Justice — Bachelor of Arts

Program Overview

The Criminal Justice program at the University of the Fraser Valley equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and prepares them for careers in law enforcement, corrections, victim services, and social justice. Through a combination of practical training and academic rigor, the program develops critical thinking, research, and communication skills, preparing graduates for entry-level positions or further studies. Distinctive features include practicum placements, a state-of-the-art research lab, and flexibility in tailoring the learning experience.

Program Outline

Criminal Justice – Bachelor of Arts – University of the Fraser Valley (UFV)

Degree Overview:

• Description: This program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for careers in criminal justice, law, social justice, and related fields.
It combines practical training with academic rigor, preparing graduates for entry-level positions or further studies.
• Objectives:
• Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, including its history, philosophy, and contemporary issues.
• Develop critical thinking, research, and communication skills applicable to diverse criminal justice settings.
• Prepare students for various career paths within the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, corrections, victim services, and social justice advocacy.
• Equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for graduate studies in law, criminology, criminal justice, or related fields.
• Structure: The program consists of 120 credits, typically completed over four years of full-time study.
The first two years focus on core criminal justice principles, while the final years delve deeper into specific areas of interest and research.
• Distinctive Features:
• Practicum Placements:
The program offers meaningful practicum opportunities to gain real-world experience in various criminal justice settings.
• State-of-the-Art Research Lab: Students can get involved in research projects with faculty members, gaining valuable experience in data analysis and research methods.
• Flexibility: Students can tailor their learning by choosing electives and minors in complementary areas like psychology, sociology, and political science.

Outline:

• Year 1: Focuses on foundational knowledge and skills, covering topics like:
• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Criminological Theories
• Research Methods
• Criminal Law
• Introduction to Policing
• Introduction to Corrections
• Year 2: Builds upon the first year's foundation, exploring:
• Criminal Courts
• Criminal Investigations
• Victimology
• Restorative Justice
• Community Corrections
• Advanced Criminological Theory
• Canadian Legal System
• Forensic Science
• Year 3: Students can choose electives and tailor their learning based on their interests and career aspirations.
Examples of elective topics include:
• Youth Justice
• Mental Health and the Criminal Justice System
• Crime Prevention and Control
• Cybercrime
• Terrorism and National Security
• Law and Society
• Gender and Crime
• Global Crime
• Year 4: Students delve deeper into their chosen areas of focus, completing capstone projects or thesis research.
This year also includes professional development and preparation for entering the workforce or pursuing further studies.

Assessment:

• A variety of assessment methods are used to evaluate student learning, including:
• Exams
• Essays
• Presentations
• Research papers
• Case studies
• Group projects
• Practicum performance evaluation

Teaching:

• The program features a blend of teaching methods, including:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Guest lectures from practitioners
• Online learning modules
• Faculty members are experienced researchers and practitioners, with expertise in various criminal justice fields.

Careers:

• This program prepares graduates for various careers in the criminal justice system, including:
• Police officer
• Parole officer
• Corrections officer
• Youth worker
• Customs inspector
• Park ranger
• Investigator
• Victim advocate
• Court administrator
• Researcher
• Crime analyst
• Security consultant
• Lawyer
• Social worker
• Teacher
• Public administrator
• Many graduates also pursue further studies in law, criminology, or related fields, opening doors to advanced career opportunities.

Other:

• The program actively encourages student participation in research projects and offers opportunities to present research findings at conferences.
• Students can benefit from networking opportunities with faculty, alumni, and other criminal justice professionals through various events and programs.
• The program emphasizes ethical conduct and social responsibility, preparing graduates to be responsible and engaged members of the criminal justice system.