Criminal Justice Athabasca University

Overview

The Criminal Justice programme at Athabasca University provides a comprehensive exploration of the legal systems, institutional policies, and professional practices that define the modern justice sector. This degree-completion pathway is specifically designed to help students integrate their previous academic or professional experiences into a broader theoretical framework.

Athabasca University is known as Canada’s Open University, offering a flexible learning environment that allows students to balance their studies with existing work and personal commitments. The institution provides extensive support services, including academic advising and dedicated faculty centres, ensuring that online learners receive the guidance necessary to succeed in a digital environment.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: CAD 1863 per credit
• National fee: CAD 1863 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Why Criminal Justice at Athabasca University?

Athabasca University offers a distinctive teaching model that allows for monthly intakes and self-paced learning, meaning there is no strict time limit for completion. The programme boasts high student satisfaction and employment rates, with graduates frequently moving into advanced roles or pursuing further graduate-level education.

The Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences provides specialised resources and advising to help students navigate the complexities of criminal justice theory. By connecting professional experience with academic rigour, the university ensures that students develop the critical thinking skills required to evaluate and improve justice policies.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

• Statistical Evidence
• Community Policing
• Victims of Crimes
• Psychology of Criminal Behaviour
• Youth Justice
• Police Management
• Offender Rehabilitation
• Risk Assessment and Threat Management
• Sex Crimes
• Administrative Law
• Sociology and Crime
• Indigenous Justice
• Public Policy
• Violence Against Women

Careers with Criminal Justice

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for diverse roles within the legal and security sectors. Many find employment as police officers, customs officers, or correctional officers, while others move into specialised positions such as crime analysts or policy analysts for provincial and federal departments.

The degree also prepares individuals for careers as parole or probation officers, private investigators, and youth workers. By gaining a deep understanding of both the adult and youth justice systems, students can pursue leadership opportunities within law enforcement, military police, or various municipal justice departments.