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.
Overview:
University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is a public university located in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. UFV is known for its commitment to accessibility and its focus on providing a student-centered learning experience.
Services Offered:
UFV provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Guidance on program selection, course registration, and academic planning.Library:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.Student Services:
Support for student life, including financial aid, career counseling, and health and wellness services.IT Service Desk:
Technical support for students and faculty.Bookstore:
Purchase textbooks, course materials, and UFV merchandise.Shuttle Bus:
Transportation between UFV campuses and surrounding areas.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UFV offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to engage in a variety of activities, including:
Clubs and Organizations:
Join student groups based on interests, hobbies, and career aspirations.Athletics:
Participate in varsity sports or recreational activities.Events:
Attend campus events, concerts, and workshops.Community Engagement:
Get involved in volunteer opportunities and community initiatives.Key Reasons to Study There:
Accessible and Inclusive Environment:
UFV is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive learning environment for all students.Student-Centered Approach:
The university prioritizes student success and provides personalized support.Diverse Programs:
A wide range of academic programs cater to various interests and career goals.Strong Faculty:
Experienced and dedicated faculty members provide high-quality instruction.Vibrant Campus Life:
Opportunities for students to connect with peers, explore their passions, and build a sense of community.Academic Programs:
UFV offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Agriculture:
Agricultural Science, Agriculture Management, Agriculture Technology, and various certificates.Aviation:
Aviation Diploma, Aviation Bachelor of Business Administration, and Integrated Studies with an Aviation theme.Business and Management:
Accounting, Applied Business Technology, Aviation Bachelor of Business Administration, Business Administration, Economics, Marketing and Sales, and various certificates.Computer Systems and Technology:
Architectural Drafting Technician, Automation and Robotics Technician, Computer Information Systems, Computing Science, Digital Manufacturing, Engineering Common Core, Engineering Physics, Geographic Information Systems, Library Information and Technology, Media Arts, and Data Analysis.Creative Arts and Design:
Creative Writing, Fine Arts, Graphic and Digital Design, Media and Communication Studies, Media Arts, Theatre, Visual Arts, and various diplomas.Earth and Environmental Sciences:
Agricultural Science, Environmental Studies, Biology, Geography, Physical Geography, and Geographic Information Systems.Education:
Adult Education, Early Childhood Education, Education, Educational Leadership and Mentorship, Integrated Learning Design, Mindfulness-Based Teaching and Learning, School and Community Support Worker, and Teaching English as a Second Language.Graduate Studies:
Criminal Justice, Educational Leadership and Mentorship, Migration and Citizenship, Mindfulness-Based Teaching and Learning, Program Evaluation, and Social Work.Health Sciences and Services:
Certified Dental Assistant, Child Life and Community Health, Health Care Assistant, Kinesiology, Nursing, and Practical Nursing.History and Culture:
Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy, Art History, Arts, Creative Writing, Diaspora Studies, English, French, History, Indigenous Studies, Language Proficiency, Latin American Studies, Liberal Arts, Philosophy, Stó:lō Studies, and Theatre.Indigenous Studies:
Indigenous Studies, Social Service Worker (Indigenous Focus), and Stó:lō Studies.Interdisciplinary Programs:
Diaspora Studies, Early Modern Studies, General Studies, Global Development Studies, Graphic Design, India-Canada Studies, Indigenous Studies, Integrated Learning Design, Integrated Studies, Latin American Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, and various certificates.Media and Communications:
Arts, Communications, Creative Writing, English, Essentials of Journalism, French, Graphic and Digital Design, Language Proficiency, Liberal Arts, Media and Communication Studies, Media Arts, Media Literacy, and Professional Communications Essentials.Office Administration:
Applied Business Technology, Advanced Medical Office Assistant, Bookkeeping for Small Business, Dental Office Receptionist, Legal Administrative Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Nursing Unit Clerk, Records Management, and Veterinary Administrative Assistant.Legal and Criminal Justice:
Criminal Justice, Political Science, Legal Administrative Assistant, Paralegal, and various diplomas.Sciences:
Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computing Science, Engineering Common Core, Engineering Physics, Geographic Information Systems, Mathematics & Statistics, Physical Geography, Physics, Data Analysis, Science, and various diplomas.Social Work & Human Services:
Child and Youth Care, Diaspora Studies, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, School and Community Support Worker, Social Service Worker, Social Work, and various diplomas.Society, Politics, and Policy:
Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy, Arts, Criminal Justice, Economics, Geography, Global Development Studies, International and Development Studies, Liberal Arts, Peace and Conflict Studies, Political Science, Program Evaluation, Psychology, and Sociology.Trades:
Architectural Drafting Technician, Collision Repair and Refinish, Automation and Robotics Technician, Automotive Service, Cabinetmaking, Carpentry, Culinary Arts, Digital Manufacturing, Electrician, Electronics Technician, Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation, Plumbing and Piping, Trades Management, and Welding.Upgrading:
Adult Basic Education, English Language Studies, and Workplace TASK.Other:
UFV is situated on the traditional territory of the Stó:lō peoples. The university acknowledges and respects the Stó:lō's historical and cultural connection to the land.
Entry Requirements:
Canadian Students:
- Graduation from high school with a minimum of 50% average in English 12 or equivalent.
- Completion of pre-calculus math (Mathematics 12 or equivalent).
- Completion of at least one of the following:
- Introduction to Sociology or Anthropology
- Law Studies 12
- Psychology 12
- Social Studies 11 or 12
- Any other course that has been approved by the BA in Criminal Justice and Sociology program.
International Students:
- Completion of secondary school education with an average of 70% or equivalent.
- Completion of at least one year of university-level coursework at a recognized institution with a minimum of 70% average.
- Completion of an English language proficiency test with the following minimum scores:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each band
- TOEFL: 88 overall with a minimum of 20 in Reading, 20 in Listening, 22 in Writing, and 21 in Speaking
- PTE Academic: 58 overall with a minimum of 50 in each skill
- CAEL: 70 overall with a minimum of 60 in each band
Language Proficiency Requirements:
International students whose first language is not English must meet the following English language proficiency requirements:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each band
- TOEFL: 88 overall with a minimum of 20 in Reading, 20 in Listening, 22 in Writing, and 21 in Speaking
- PTE Academic: 58 overall with a minimum of 50 in each skill
- CAEL: 70 overall with a minimum of 60 in each band