COURSE CURRICULUM

Criminology and Criminal Justice at Carleton University is a four-year, 20.0-credit program that provides students with an in-depth, interdisciplinary understanding of crime, criminalization, and justice systems. The program includes 10.0 credits that count toward the major CGPA, beginning with foundational courses such as Introduction to Criminology and Criminal Justice, Criminological Theories, and Contemporary Issues in the field. Students also complete introductory courses in Legal Studies (LAWS 1001 and 1002), Psychology (PSYC 1001 and 1002), and Sociology (either SOCI 1001 and 1002, or SOCI 1003). Further specialization includes one credit from a set of applied or advanced discipline-related courses such as Criminal Justice System, Criminal Law, Introduction to Forensic Psychology, and Crime and Society. Methodological training is provided through Quantitative and Qualitative Methods in Criminology (CRCJ 3001 and 3002). Students must complete 2.5 credits in CRCJ or approved Criminology and Criminal Justice (CCJ) electives at the 3000 level or above, plus 1.0 credit at the 4000 level to engage with advanced topics and research in the field. In addition to major-specific courses, the program requires 10.0 credits that do not count toward the major CGPA, including 5.0 credits in electives outside of the CCJ-approved list, and another 5.0 credits in completely free electives. This structure allows students to personalize their studies, explore related disciplines, or add a minor or concentration in fields like Law, Sociology, or Psychology. The comprehensive curriculum prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in criminal justice, law, public policy, social services, and research. With a strong foundation in theory, method, and applied practice, Carleton’s Criminology and Criminal Justice program trains students to think critically, act ethically, and work effectively toward social justice in an evolving legal and societal landscape.