Criminology and Criminal Justice with a concentration in Law

The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a Concentration in Law at Carleton University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, legal processes, and the societal impacts of crime. This interdisciplinary program combines foundational courses in criminology, criminal justice, and law to equip students with a well-rounded perspective on the causes of crime, criminal behavior, and the functioning of the justice system. Students engage with topics such as the sociology of crime, criminal law, policing, corrections, victimology, and forensic science, gaining both theoretical knowledge and practical skills relevant to careers in law enforcement, legal services, policy development, and community advocacy. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research methods, and analytical skills, enabling students to examine complex social issues related to crime and justice from multiple angles. With opportunities for internships, co-op placements, or experiential learning, students can apply academic theories in real-world settings, preparing for professional roles within governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, or private sector entities involved in crime prevention and justice administration. The curriculum also addresses current challenges in criminal justice, such as social inequality, human rights, cybercrime, and terrorism, ensuring students are equipped to contribute thoughtfully and ethically to ongoing societal debates. Graduates of this program are prepared for further study in law or graduate programs in criminology, as well as for careers such as police officers, legal assistants, policy analysts, or roles in correctional institutions. The program’s multidisciplinary approach, combined with Carleton University’s emphasis on research excellence and community engagement, provides students with a robust education grounded in the realities of contemporary criminal justice issues.

The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a concentration in Law at Carleton University offers students an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system, criminal behavior, and legal processes. This comprehensive program is designed to equip students with critical analytical skills, a thorough knowledge of law, and an understanding of the social, political, and cultural factors that influence crime and justice. The curriculum integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in law enforcement, legal services, policy analysis, and related fields.

Throughout the program, students explore key topics such as criminal law, criminal procedure, law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice, and human rights. They gain a solid grounding in legal principles, the functioning of courts and law enforcement agencies, and the social context of criminal activity. The program emphasizes evidence-based approaches and promotes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and effective communication skills.

Students have the opportunity to engage in experiential learning through internships and co-op placements, which allow them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. In addition to foundational courses in criminology and criminal justice, the program offers specialized courses in law, including legal research, constitutional law, and legal ethics. This combination prepares graduates for further studies in law or related fields, as well as for roles within the criminal justice system and legal organizations.

The faculty at Carleton University comprises leading experts in criminology, law, and criminal justice, fostering an academically challenging environment that encourages inquiry, debate, and innovation. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, drawing insights from sociology, psychology, political science, and law to provide a well-rounded perspective on issues related to crime and justice. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to the development of justice policies and practices, advocating for fairness, human rights, and social change in their professional careers.

To complete the Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a concentration in Law at Carleton University, students are required to fulfill a combination of core courses, electives, and a capstone project. The program typically begins with foundational courses in criminology, criminal justice systems, and law, designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice process, legal principles, and social contexts. Students must complete approximately 30-36 credit hours of required courses, including introductory classes such as "Introduction to Criminology," "Canadian Criminal Justice System," and "Legal Process." In addition to core coursework, students are encouraged to select electives that complement their interests, which can include topics like policing, corrections, human rights, or international crime. The program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and real-world application, often requiring students to participate in internships or co-op placements where available.

Furthermore, students must complete a senior seminar or capstone project in their final year, focusing on a specific aspect of criminology, criminal justice, or law, where they analyze case studies, conduct research, or develop policy proposals. The program also requires students to meet university-wide graduation requirements, including a minimum number of credits overall, a satisfactory GPA, and possibly language requirements or community service hours depending on the year of entry. To support experiential learning, Carleton provides opportunities through partnerships with law enforcement agencies, legal institutions, and community organizations, enabling students to gain practical experience. The program aims to prepare graduates for careers in law, policy development, social services, or further academic study, emphasizing analytical skills, ethical understanding, and an awareness of social justice issues related to crime and law enforcement.

The Criminology and Criminal Justice program with a concentration in Law at Carleton University offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees are established annually and vary depending on the student’s residency status, with domestic students typically paying lower fees compared to international students. In addition to standard tuition, students should budget for ancillary costs such as textbooks, supplies, and various activity fees. Carleton University provides several financial assistance programs, including government grants, scholarships, bursaries, and work-study opportunities, designed to make education accessible and affordable. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership, and other criteria, and students are encouraged to apply early to maximize their chances of securing funding. Bursaries are need-based and can help offset costs for students demonstrating financial hardship. The university also offers a limited number of graduate teaching and research assistantships, which provide a stipend and sometimes cover tuition fees in exchange for research or teaching duties. External funding opportunities, such as government student loans and private scholarships, are also available to eligible students. Carleton’s Financial Aid and Co-op Services provides comprehensive guidance and support throughout the application process. Many students supplement their financing through part-time employment on campus or nearby, gaining valuable professional experience while studying. International students may have access to specific scholarships and work opportunities, although their options may be more limited compared to domestic students. Overall, Carleton University’s funding options are designed to help students manage the costs of their education while focusing on their academic and career goals in criminology and criminal justice with a legal concentration. The university encourages prospective students to explore all available financial resources early in their academic planning process to ensure they can maximize their financial aid opportunities.

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a concentration in Law at Carleton University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, law enforcement, legal processes, and the societal impacts of crime. This interdisciplinary program combines courses from criminology, law, sociology, and political science to provide a well-rounded perspective on issues related to crime, justice, and legal frameworks. Students will engage with topics such as criminal law, criminal procedure, corrections, policing, human rights, and juvenile justice, fostering critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to address complex criminal justice issues. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, often including opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and research projects that allow students to gain real-world experience in criminal justice settings. Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in law enforcement, legal services, policy analysis, advocacy, and related fields. Additionally, the program offers pathways to further education in law or graduate studies in criminology, criminal justice, or public policy. Beyond coursework, students benefit from Carleton University’s strong connections with national and local criminal justice agencies, providing valuable networking and employment opportunities. The faculty comprises experts in criminology, law, and justice who bring a wealth of research and practical experience to their teaching, ensuring students receive relevant, up-to-date education. Overall, this program aims to produce knowledgeable, ethical, and socially responsible graduates equipped to contribute to the justice system and broader societal needs.