COURSE CURRICULUM

The Police and Justice Studies Diploma at Thompson Rivers University is a two-year, 60-credit program designed to prepare students for careers in policing, justice services, and related fields. In the first year, students complete foundational courses in communication, human behaviour, criminal justice systems in Canada, physical conditioning, critical thinking, and Canadian government and politics. These courses help build essential academic, analytical, and physical readiness skills required for justice-related professions. Students also select elective courses to broaden their knowledge base. In the second year, the program focuses on more specialized and applied training in policing and justice services. Core courses include Police Skills, Introduction to Policing, Ethics, Deviance and Control, Canadian Law and Legal Institutions, and a Field Work Practicum that provides real-world experience in justice environments. Additional coursework explores race and ethnic relations, helping students understand diversity and social dynamics within the justice system. Electives allow further specialization in areas of interest. The program also includes exemptions for certain courses based on prior academic background in psychology or anthropology. Overall, the curriculum blends theoretical knowledge, practical skills, ethical training, and field experience to prepare graduates for roles in policing, corrections, security, and other justice-related careers within Canada’s criminal justice system.