To work as a correctional officer in Canada, you need to complete the Correctional Training program through Correctional Service Canada. Eligibility is achieved by passing a series of assessments and then successfully completing the program.

Correctional service officers

This instructional program class comprises any program that focuses on the systematic study of crime as a sociopathological phenomenon, the behaviour of criminals, and the social institutions evolved to respond to crime. These programs include courses in the theory of crime, psychological and social bases of criminal behaviour, social value systems and the theory of punishment, criminal law and criminal justice systems, penology, rehabilitation and recidivism, studies of specific types of crime, social attitudes and policy, and applications to specific issues in law enforcement administration and policy.

Criminology

Criminal Justice Certificates

Correctional service officers guard offenders and detainees and maintain order in correctional institutions and other places of detention. Primary workers develop women offender's correctional plan and work with other service officers in the correctional team. They are employed by federal, provincial and municipal governments. Correctional service officers who are supervisors are included in this unit group.

The Certificate in Criminology is a 30-credit program offering students an introduction to criminology and other disciplines as well as post-secondary training for careers in criminal justice agencies. On completion of the Certificate, students have the option of entering the Diploma in Criminology, Associate of Arts in Criminology, Bachelor of Arts in Community Criminal Justice, or Bachelor of Arts, Major or Minor in Criminology. Students who want to ensure that they do not have to make up additional coursework should choose their optional criminology courses carefully in consultation with an Academic Advisor and the University Calendar requirements for the applicable Criminology program.

Criminology Certificate

The Criminology Certificate prepares you for entry-level employment positions as well as continued studies in professional programs, including Corrections, Criminology, Criminal Justice, Forensic Studies, and Law Enforcement at university or university-college transferring institutions.

The Criminology Certificate is primarily directed toward undergraduates and criminal justice professionals, but is open to all. If you hold a bachelor’s degree (in any field of study), you should refer to the Post Baccalaureate Diploma in Criminology. The program provides a basic theoretical and descriptive criminology foundation. You'll take courses in the psychology and sociology of criminal behaviour, the justice system, criminal law, and more. Upon completing the program, you'll understand the complexities of illegal behaviors, as well as society’s reactions.

Educational Path

Criminal Justice Certificates

Programs

Careers