Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Neuroscience
Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science program in ...
Bachelor of Arts in Criminology
Brantford
INTAKE: Jan, May & Sept
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology program at Wilfrid Laurier University offers students a comprehensive understanding of crime, criminal justice systems, and social responses to crime. This interdisciplinary program explores various aspects of criminology, including theories of crime causation, criminal behavior, law enforcement, corrections, and criminal justice policy. Students gain insights into the complexities of crime and justice through coursework, field placements, and experiential learning opportunities, preparing them for careers in law enforcement, social services, policy analysis, and research.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts in Criminology program at Wilfrid Laurier University is designed to provide students with a broad-based education in criminological theory, research methods, and applied skills. Core courses cover topics such as introduction to criminology, criminal law, policing, corrections, victimology, and research methods in criminology. Students also have the opportunity to choose elective courses in specialized areas such as criminal justice policy, forensic psychology, youth justice, or restorative justice. The curriculum incorporates case studies, simulations, and experiential learning projects to help students apply theoretical concepts to real-world situations and develop practical skills relevant to careers in criminology.
Research Focus: Wilfrid Laurier University has a strong research focus in criminology, with faculty members and researchers conducting innovative research on crime, criminal justice, and social control. Research projects may involve quantitative and qualitative methods, empirical studies, policy analysis, and evaluations of crime prevention programs. Students in the Bachelor of Arts in Criminology program have opportunities to participate in research projects, collaborate with faculty mentors, and gain research experience through independent studies, honors theses, and research assistantships. Research-focused courses and seminars also provide students with insights into current issues and debates in criminology research.
Industry Engagement: The university maintains close connections with criminal justice agencies, law enforcement organizations, legal professionals, and community partners, offering students numerous opportunities for industry engagement and practical experience. Through field placements, internships, and experiential learning opportunities, students in the Bachelor of Arts in Criminology program have the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in criminal justice settings, such as police departments, courts, correctional facilities, or victim services agencies. Industry engagement also includes guest lectures, professional development workshops, and networking events, providing students with insights into diverse career paths and opportunities in the field of criminology.
Global Perspective: Wilfrid Laurier University promotes a global perspective in its criminology program, recognizing the interconnectedness of crime and justice issues across national and international boundaries. The curriculum incorporates global perspectives on crime trends, transnational crime, comparative criminal justice systems, and human rights issues. Students are encouraged to explore global challenges such as terrorism, organized crime, human trafficking, and cybercrime, preparing them to work in diverse and multicultural contexts. Study abroad programs, international exchange opportunities, and global field experiences further enhance students' understanding of global criminology issues and perspectives.
Location
Brantford
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 32251
Application fee: CAD$ 80 + Applying through OUAC 105F Portal charges CAD$ 156 + International Charges CAD$ 10
Academic Requirements: International undergraduate applicants are typically required to have a minimum academic average of 70% or its equivalent in their secondary school studies.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: An overall band score of 6.5, with no individual band score less than 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 83 on the internet-based test (iBT).
- PTE: A minimum score of 59 on the Pearson Test of English.
- DET: A minimum score of 120 on the Duolingo English Test.
Wilfrid Laurier University offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievement, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
International Student Entrance Scholarships: Wilfrid Laurier University offers several entrance scholarships specifically for international students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and are available for both undergraduate and graduate students. The value of these scholarships varies, with some covering a significant portion of tuition fees.
President's Gold Scholarship of Distinction: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to exceptional incoming international undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and community involvement. Recipients of this scholarship receive a renewable award that covers a significant portion of their tuition fees.
International Student Scholarship: The International Student Scholarship is awarded to international undergraduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence and are entering their first year of study at Wilfrid Laurier University. The scholarship amount varies based on the student's academic achievements.
In-Course Scholarships: Wilfrid Laurier University also offers in-course scholarships for international students who have completed at least one year of study at the university. These scholarships are based on academic performance and may be awarded to students who have achieved a certain GPA or have excelled in specific areas of study.
Faculty-specific Scholarships: Some faculties and departments within Wilfrid Laurier University may offer scholarships and awards specific to their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be available to international students based on academic performance, leadership, or other criteria determined by the faculty or department.
External Scholarships and Partnerships: In addition to the university-specific scholarships, international students at Wilfrid Laurier University can also explore external scholarships and funding opportunities. The university has partnerships with various organizations and agencies that offer scholarships to international students, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels.
It is important to note that scholarship eligibility and application processes may vary, and some scholarships may have specific requirements or deadlines.
Graduates of Wilfrid Laurier University's Bachelor of Arts in Criminology program are equipped with a diverse skill set and knowledge base that prepares them for various career paths in the criminal justice system, social services, policy analysis, and research.
Law Enforcement Officer: Graduates can pursue careers as law enforcement officers, working as police officers, detectives, or crime analysts within police departments, law enforcement agencies, or federal organizations. Law enforcement officers enforce laws, investigate crimes, gather evidence, and maintain public safety in communities.
Corrections Officer: Graduates can work as corrections officers, probation officers, or correctional counselors within correctional facilities, probation departments, or community-based correctional programs. Corrections officers oversee the rehabilitation and supervision of individuals in custody or under community supervision, promoting offender reintegration and reducing recidivism.
Victim Advocate: Graduates can work as victim advocates, providing support, assistance, and advocacy services to victims of crime, including emotional support, crisis intervention, information referrals, and assistance navigating the criminal justice system. Victim advocates may work for non-profit organizations, government agencies, or victim services programs.
Policy Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, where they analyze criminal justice policies, evaluate their effectiveness, and develop recommendations for policy reform or implementation. Policy analysts may work for government agencies, research institutes, advocacy organizations, or think tanks, influencing criminal justice legislation, regulations, and programs.
Social Worker: Graduates can work as social workers, specializing in areas such as juvenile justice, child welfare, or offender reintegration. Social workers provide counseling, case management, and support services to individuals and families involved in the criminal justice system, addressing social and psychological needs and promoting positive outcomes.
Crime Prevention Specialist: Graduates can work as crime prevention specialists, developing and implementing crime prevention initiatives, community outreach programs, and crime reduction strategies in partnership with law enforcement agencies, community organizations, and local governments. Crime prevention specialists may focus on areas such as community policing, neighborhood watch programs, or youth violence prevention.
Research Analyst: Graduates can work as research analysts, conducting research on crime, criminal behavior, criminal justice policies, and social factors related to crime and victimization. Research analysts may work for government agencies, research institutes, or academic institutions, collecting and analyzing data, writing reports, and contributing to the development of evidence-based practices and policies.
Legal Assistant: Graduates can work as legal assistants or paralegals, providing administrative and research support to lawyers, prosecutors, or legal departments within government agencies, law firms, or corporate legal departments. Legal assistants may assist with case preparation, document drafting, legal research, and client communication in criminal law cases.
Private Investigator: Graduates can pursue careers as private investigators, conducting investigations, gathering evidence, and providing surveillance services to individuals, businesses, or law firms. Private investigators may specialize in areas such as criminal defense investigations, insurance fraud investigations, or missing persons cases.
Criminal Justice Educator: Graduates can pursue careers as criminal justice educators, teaching courses in criminology, criminal justice, sociology, or related fields at colleges, universities, or vocational schools. Criminal justice educators may also conduct research, publish scholarly articles, and contribute to the academic study of crime and justice.
