Criminology

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Undergraduate Diploma
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Criminology Undergraduate Diploma at VIU International offers you a deep dive into the complex world of crime, law, and justice. This interdisciplinary program is ideal for students keen to understand societal reactions to law-breaking, the intricacies of criminal law, and the systemic patterns of deviant behaviour. You will explore foundational concepts in criminology, psycho-social explanations of criminality, and the structure of the criminal justice system, gaining critical insights into the historical, individual, and social causes of crime. This course is designed for those who wish to develop a strong analytical and applied skill set for careers in the justice sector and beyond.

This full-time, on-campus Undergraduate Diploma is studied over two years, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of criminological theory and practice. Your learning journey will involve exploring topics such as deviance, crime and social control, criminal law, and research methods within criminology. You will engage with diverse perspectives, including those of First Peoples, and develop essential professional skills in areas like conflict mediation, research, and communication. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for roles within the police, courts, and corrections, or to pursue further studies in fields where legal and justice-focused competencies are highly valued.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This criminology program offers a comprehensive exploration of crime, deviance, and the justice system. Students will delve into theoretical frameworks, psychological and sociological explanations of criminal behavior, and the intricacies of Canadian law and legal institutions. The curriculum also examines research methodologies, correctional and policing practices, and contemporary issues within criminology, with a particular focus on Indigenous perspectives on justice and colonization.

1 Year 1Credits

Intro to Criminology
Intro to Criminology and Sociology
Psycho-social Explanations of Criminality
Criminological Theory and the Lived Experience
Psychological Explanations of Criminal and Deviant Behaviour
Intro to the Criminal Justice System
Intro to Canadian Law and Legal Institutions: a Criminal Justice Perspective
Rhetoric and Reasoning
Intro to Philosophy: Theory of Knowledge
Intro to Philosophy: Ethics
Contemporary Psychology I
Contemporary Psychology II
Intro to Sociology

2 Year 2Credits

Deviance, Crime and Social Control
Research Methods in Criminology
Introduction to Social Research
Research Methods
Criminal Law
First Peoples, Colonization, and Justice
Law, Youth and Young Offenders
Gender, Crime and Justice
Intro to Corrections
Intro to Policing
Alternative Conflict Resolution in Criminal Justice Systems
Current Topics in Criminology
Intro to Statistics for Social Sciences
Introduction to Statistics
Statistics I
Business Statistics I
Law and Politics in Canada
Introduction to Indigenous Feminisms
Introduction to Indigenous Gender
Unsettling Canada: Indigenous Women's Activism
Healing Words: Indigenous Women's Storytelling
Indigenous Feminisms and Indigenous Law
First Nations People in Canadian History since 1867
Indigenous Philosophy: Comparative Perspectives

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,536.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,536.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 39,072.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Food & Groceries USD 2,167.00 - USD 3,901.00
Transport USD 781.00 - USD 1,214.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,041.00 - USD 1,561.00
Estimated Total USD 3,989.00 - USD 6,676.00

Living cost estimates are based on Nanaimo campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

75%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationClinical & Medical ServicesData Science & AnalyticsHardware & Semiconductor EngineeringMedical Research & Clinical TrialsMental Health & CounselingNursing & Allied HealthPublic Health & EpidemiologyRehabilitation & PhysiotherapySecondary & High School Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BC Public Service

Fraser Health Authority

GE HealthCare

Island Crisis Care Society

Island Health

Maple Brain Healthcare Inc.

Why Study Criminology at Vancouver Island University (VIU)

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Vancouver Island University (VIU) in Canada

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Criminology at Vancouver Island University (VIU)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during the term and unlimited hours during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for on-campus jobs.

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English test requirements, including scores for Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE. For example, a Duolingo overall score of 125 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Common job titles include criminologist, law enforcement officer, probation officer, and legal assistant.

What will I actually study in this course?

Students interested in the diploma must apply to the Bachelor of Arts, Major in Criminology. Prior to completion of their first year, students must indicate their interest in exiting with their Criminology Diploma.

Criminology is an interdisciplinary science that focuses on law and its interpretation by the courts, patterns in crime, explanations for deviant and criminal behaviour, and society’s reaction to law-breaking. The program introduces students to criminal law, the

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Criminology program has an intake in September. To enroll, students must apply to the Bachelor of Arts, Major in Criminology.
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