Criminology (BA)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

Explore the complex social and psychological factors behind criminal behaviour with the Criminology (BA) at VIU International. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students passionate about social justice, current events, and understanding the intricacies of the criminal justice system. You will develop a critical lens to analyse societal issues, learn about psycho-social explanations of criminality, and gain insights into Canadian law and legal institutions. This program provides a robust academic foundation for those seeking to understand and address crime and its consequences.

You will study this Bachelor of Arts full-time on campus over four years, engaging with core areas such as deviance, crime, social control, and criminal law. The curriculum incorporates research methods, including qualitative and quantitative approaches, and offers opportunities for specialization through electives and a unique Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program. In your final year, you will undertake a Justice Capstone Tutorial and Field Placement or a Capstone Research Project, applying your knowledge to real-world scenarios. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in law enforcement, corrections, victim services, and legal support roles.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA program in Criminology offers a comprehensive exploration of crime, deviance, and the criminal justice system. Students will examine foundational concepts in criminology, psychology, sociology, and law, progressing to advanced topics such as research methods, criminal law, and policy analysis. The curriculum culminates in a capstone experience, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application through research and field placement, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the justice sector and related fields.

1 Year 1 Credits

Intro to Criminology Compulsory
Psycho-social Explanations of Criminality
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 2 Credits

Deviance, Crime and Social Control
Research Methods in Criminology
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

3 Year 3 Credits

Trauma, Resilience, and the Justice System
Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Policy
Law and Society
Qualitative Research Methods
Quantitative Research Methods
Advanced Criminological Theory

4 Year 4 Credits

Law and Human Rights
Justice Capstone Tutorial and Field Placement
Capstone Research Preparation
Capstone Research Project
Green Criminology and Environmental Law
Charter Issues in Criminal Law
Alternate Conflict Resolution and Negotiation Skills
Criminal Justice Systems: An International Perspective
Drugs, Crime, and Criminal Justice
Dynamics of Terrorism
Organizational Crime: A Global Perspective
Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program – Advanced Topics
Selected Topics in Criminology

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 17,878.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 71,515.00

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

Curriculum & Instructional DesignEarly Childhood & Primary EducationEducational Support ServicesEmployment & Labor LawHealthcare ConsultingHome Health & Long‑Term CareIT Support & Systems AdministrationInternational & Human Rights LawProduct Management & UXPublic Health & Epidemiology

Top Employers Hiring for this course

BC Public Service

Duncan Allen Law

Fraser Health Authority

GE HealthCare

Island Crisis Care Society

Island Health

Maple Brain Healthcare Inc.

Why Study Criminology (BA) 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 (BA) at Vancouver Island University (VIU)

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 24 hours per week during term time and unlimited hours during breaks. On-campus work has no restrictions.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To apply for the Criminology program, demonstrate your English proficiency through tests like Duolingo or TOEFL. For instance, a Duolingo overall score of 125 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as a bailiff, correctional officer, court reporter, or police officer.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Criminology program at VIU enhances skills such as legal analysis and conflict mediation. It explores social and psychological factors contributing to criminal behavior and promotes a focus on social justice.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Criminology (BA) program has an intake in September each year. Make sure to apply in advance to secure your place.
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