Justice Studies: Corrections

CampusStart DateTuition/Fees
MiramichiSeptember 2023 (Blended Delivery) Domestic | International
Saint JohnSeptember 2023 (Blended Delivery) Domestic | International

Program Overview

Canada’s justice system is diverse, providing many career paths for professionals who care about people and public safety. From private security to policing, corrections to community-based roles, we help protect communities, uphold the law and work with individuals who are involved, or at risk of becoming involved with the criminal justice system. If you’ve got an interest in law enforcement and the justice system, and the compassion to treat people, including offenders, with dignity and respect, you could have a future in justice.

Our Justice Studies: Corrections program is designed to provide students the knowledge and skills required for individuals aspiring to a career as a Correctional Officer or other related fields of criminal justice. Everything we teach meets current industry standards, and our students are trained in areas of intervention, prevention, rehabilitative strategies and reintegration, preparing you to work in a diverse variety of institutional and community settings.

Our program also offers two exciting workplace experiences that will allow students the opportunity to apply what you’ve learned in the classroom to real world situations.

If you choose to continue your education in criminology or other related fields, your NBCC diploma is a great foundation. Graduates can, for example, apply their respective two-year NBCC diploma to be credited for up to two years of a four-year university degree making a seamless transition from college to university. Enroll today in the Justice Studies: Corrections program and pursue a rewarding career protecting and serving people and your community.


Duration

The requirements for this diploma program may be achieved within two academic years of full-time study.


Admission Requirements

    Profile A

  • High School Diploma or Adult High School Diploma or GED Diploma of High School Equivalency or Essential Skills Achievement Pathway: Post-Secondary Entry High School Diploma

    NB Francophone High School Math Equivalencies
    International Student Admission Equivalencies


    Career Possibilities

    As a graduate of this program, you will be prepared to pursue employment opportunities in various areas of the criminal justice field such as: provincial and federal correctional and community services for both adult and youth offenders, sheriff services, border services, enforcement agencies, private security agencies, by-law enforcement, commercial vehicle enforcement, crime prevention, hospital security, community correctional centers and halfway houses, adult and youth residential agencies, homeless/outreach centers, positions in probation and parole, case management, program facilitators, forensic units, addiction and mental health treatment centers, and non-governmental agencies.

    Find career possibilities related to this program in Career Coach.



    Specific Considerations

    Host agencies require students to provide a current criminal record check and vulnerable sector check from a recognized police service in order to be considered for tours/or field trips and applied workplace experiences. Individuals who have been convicted criminally and not pardoned will likely be prohibited from proceeding to a work placement. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that he or she is eligible to participate.

    Mature applicants with related experience or training who do not meet the academic admission requirements may be considered for acceptance following additional assessment conducted at the college. Please contact us for further direction.

    Candidates should also be aware that they will be required to participate in strenuous physical fitness classes and are encouraged to consult with their family physician.

    Prior to the beginning of the applied workplace experience, host facilities may require the completion of an Immunization and Medical Form (pdf) and proof of valid CPR Level C Lifesaver certification. It is the student's responsibility to ensure that he or she has met these requirements.

    Technology Requirements
    NBCC is a connected learning environment. All programs require a minimum specification, including access to the internet and a laptop. Your computer should meet your program technology requirements to ensure the software required for your program operates effectively. Free wifi is provided on all campuses.


    Areas of Study

    • Principles and foundations of psychology, sociology and criminology
    • Correctional Officer Duties, Roles and Responsibilities (Adult and Youth): Security Skills, Professional Conduct, and Courtroom Security
    • Correctional Operations: Contraband, Searches, Escorts, Counts, Radio Procedures, Key and Tool Control
    • Crisis Intervention: Non-Violent, Suicide, Defense, Arrest and Control Tactics, Emergency Response and Use of Force
    • Offender Behaviour Management, Discipline, Rehabilitation, Programming and Reintegration
    • Canadian Criminal Justice System and Correctional Programs in Canada
    • Verbal, Written and Interpersonal Communication
    • Occupational Health and Safety
    • Case Management Model, Case Planning, Risk Assessment and Security Classification
    • Diverse Populations: Youth, Gender, Culture, Offender Subculture, Addictions, Mental Health, Medical, Special Needs and Dangerous Offenders
    • Interviewing and Counselling
    • Fitness - cardiovascular system, muscular strength and endurance
    • Stress Management and Self Care


    Program Courses

    Courses are subject to change.

    Participants use a variety of sources to conduct research and use the results of research to produce short informal reports, discussion papers, and proposals.

    Prerequisites:

    • COMM1155

    This course teaches students how to create documents that are organized, unified, and coherent.

    In this course, students write notebook, logbook, entries and reports following guidelines used by the related agencies. They will complete exercises that familiarize them with professional communication practices. The students will be required in work in groups to show the importance of the team concept in the field. This will be a very interactive course closely mirroring the writing and reporting responsibilities in the daily workplace routine.

    This course provides students with fundamental knowledge of the Canadian corrections system and the role of the Correctional Officer in it. Students are introduced to the mission, mandate, and organization of Correctional Services in Canada as well as laws, acts, policies, and regulations that govern Correctional Officer conduct. They examine the operational requirements for offender populations and the professional requirements of employees. They learn of offender behaviors, rights and responsibilities, as well as offender disciplinary and grievance procedures. Students acquire skill in static and dynamic security tactics and utilize problem-solving to assess and resolve situations commonly seen in the correctional setting.
     

    The purpose of the first field placement is to provide an orientation to the career and expose the student to practical experience in a correctional and or community correctional setting.
     

    Prerequisites:

    • CSSC1044C

    Students examine the purpose of offender case management with the goal of understanding and explaining the phases of case management from the point of admission into the Criminal Justice System to release into the community.

    Students receive an introduction to the offender subculture and the effects of incarceration on an inmate. They develop skills and knowledge in controlling inmate behavior, with the goal of reacting appropriately to situations which may require them to apply the principles of the Use of Force Continuum.

    The crisis management model is learned which assists the students to deal with emergency situations. They are introduced to the role of the Emergency Response Team, the equipment required in handling emergency situations, and the process of performing extractions.

    Students also learn how to prepare for court appearances and the how to practice the principles of effective courtroom demeanor.

    Prerequisites:

    • CORR1037F

    This course is designed to enhance the student’s knowledge about correctional programs and services provided to youth in secure custody institutions. Students will gain an understanding of the Youth Criminal Justice Act and the process of youth sentencing within the youth criminal justice system. Students acquire an awareness of the operational standards related to facilities for youth who are committed to secure custody; and the roles and responsibility of youth correctional officers. Participants also learn about the therapeutic milieu, and strategies and interventions appropriate in managing behaviours.
     

    This course provides an overview of the basic resources and programs available to offenders in secure custody facilities in Canada.

    Students incorporate all the skills learned in the previous Correctional Operations courses and enhance problem solving, communication, and counselling skills. Particular attention is paid to the diverse needs of offenders, especially those with mental health issues. The students are introduced to the processes involved in identifying, preparing for, and managing crisis situations in a correctional facility. The topic of infectious diseases is also covered and the students learn to protect themselves using universal precautionary measures.

    Prerequisites:

    • CORR1041D

    Students are exposed to either a secure or open correctional and or community correctional setting.
    Under supervision, students will have an opportunity to apply classroom learning and skills in the workplace while receiving practical experience within the field.

     

    Prerequisites:

    • CORR1038F

    The course is designed to address contemporary topics of interest to students, faculty or employers in the field of Corrections. Topics are selected for the semester from recent developments and trends in the profession or as a result of sector specific skill development needs. The course may introduce new or emerging aspects in the field or showcase research. The course is designed to build in-depth knowledge and enhance practical understanding on the part of the student. The student is challenged to demonstrate substantive knowledge of relevant subject matter; grading emphasis is placed on assignments typical to actual practice.

    The purpose of this course is to prepare students for their Applied Workplace Experience (AWE).  They implement job readiness skills in preparing resumes, cover letters and a learning portfolio as well as participate in simulated interviews.  Students also research possible AWE opportunities related to their field of study.
     

    This course provides the learner with a clear understanding of the role of counselling in helping others to develop coping and problem solving skills. Students participate in counselling role play and exercises designed to develop their listening and empathy skills.

    The Criminal Justice System consists of three agencies of social control: the police, the courts and the correctional system. Students in this course become familiar with the roles and functions of these three agencies, how they relate to each other, and how Criminal Law impacts all three. Throughout the course, they have an opportunity to critically analyze the various components of the justice system, as well as examine the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the system. They also explore contemporary issues, including public/private relationships in the law enforcement context, public involvement in criminal justice processes, restorative justice, victims of crime, youth justice and programs designed to reduce crime and rehabilitate offenders.
     

    This course will give the students a better understanding of what constitutes crime and the theories used to explain crime. Further, the course will introduce the student to the discipline of criminology, its basic concepts, theories and how they apply to the various types of criminal behaviour.

    This course provides the learner with information and the opportunity to explore support measures for those with mental health issues.

    This course provides an introduction to the meaning of community service.  Students learn how community service can enhance a student’s educational experience, personal growth, employability, and civic responsibility. Students participate in one day of volunteering to enhance their understanding of civic responsibility and to help the New Brunswick Community College realize its vision of transforming lives and communities. 

    The purpose of this course is to prepare students for success in their chosen field. Students learn what is expected of them as professionals by relating various skills and interventions learned in class to the workplace. Self-awareness will be addressed in preparing for the challenging and rewarding applied workplace experiences. They problem-solve case scenarios specific to the field incorporating professional and ethical decision-making abilities.
     

    This course provides students with an understanding of the effects of grief on an individual. Students assess their personal grief experiences in order to prepare them to develop strategies to effectively intervene with individuals who are grieving.

    This course provides the student with the knowledge base for critical thinking about abnormal psychology as it relates to the study of human behavioural disorders.  The students gain appreciation of contemporary issues in the field of abnormal psychology through examining empirical research that explores classification, etiology and treatment of behavioural disorders.

    Prerequisites:

    • PSYC1072B

    Students are introduced to the major concepts and theoretical perspectives of the field of psychology. They explore such topics as history, research methods, sensation, perception, consciousness, memory, and intelligence using critical thinking and skeptical inquiry.
     

    The purpose of this course is to examine the underlying concepts and principles that influence the ways people behave and communicate with each other. With an increased awareness of these factors that affect interpersonal relationships, the student will critically assess how these concepts can be applied in practice both personally and professionally.

    This course provides participants with an understanding of the basics of working with groups using effective leadership styles and identifying and practicing group facilitation skills and techniques.

    This course  provides students with the basic computer skills and knowledge required to work effectively in today’s technological-based workplace.  Students learn the appropriate and secure use of email and file management while developing internet research, word processing and presentation software skills commonly used within the field.
     

    In this course, the students learn to appreciate the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle in order to meet required fitness levels in the profession. The students learn basic self-defence skills and tactics which require physical wellness and conditioning.

    Students maintain and build on the fitness skills acquired in SECU 1182. They work toward maintaining a healthy lifestyle, practicing advanced self-defence techniques, and exhibiting leadership skills.

    Prerequisites:

    • SECU1182D

    Students maintain a bona fide level of physical fitness through practicing regular exercise, adopting a healthy lifestyle and taking proactive steps to manage stress. They apply these practices in the context of advanced self-defence techniques and taking advantage of opportunities to exhibit leadership skills.

    Prerequisites:

    • SECU1183

    A safe and healthy workplace is the responsibility of the employer and the employee. This course introduces students to the importance of working safely and addresses how employers and employees can control the hazards and risks associated with the workplace. Students will also learn about the roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders including WorkSafeNB, the employer and the employee in ensuring workplaces are safe.

    Students expand their awareness of the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively interact with and/or serve diverse populations as they explore attitudes and competencies that are important in effective professional relationships. 

    This course uses a sociological approach to identifying issues arising from deviant phenomena in modern society. Students examine criminal deviance, sexual deviance, and other deviant behaviours.

    Students study victims of crime and the factors connected to victims. The course encompasses a historical perspective outlining theories, legislation, agencies and various services provided to crime victims associated with the criminal justice system. An examination of different types of victims throughout this course will provide students with information necessary to engage appropriately when working with victims as a professional in the human services field.

    Students are introduced to the major concepts and theoretical perspectives of the field of sociology. They explore such topics as sociological imagination, research, culture, and socialization. 
     


    NOC Codes

    4422 - Correctional service officers


    Articulation Agreements

    Institution: University of New Brunswick Saint John - Faculty of Business
    Articulation Period:
    Information: Bachelor of Applied Management Degree
    NBCC graduates of any 2 year diploma program with a GPA of 70% or greater receive 2 years full credit toward this degree and will be eligible to enter year 3 of the 4 year Bachelor of Applied Management (BAM) program.


     


    Institution: Humber College
    Articulation Period:
    Information: Bachelor of Social Science - Criminal Justice
    Students with appropriate pre-requisites and grades (min. 65%) may be eligible for admission into advance semesters.
    Institution: Griffith University
    Articulation Period: No End Date
    Information: Griffith University will grant up to one and a half (1.5) years of advanced standing (i.e., entry into the fourth semester) of the Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice degree to graduates of the Criminal Justice Programs.  
    Institution: Athabasca University
    Articulation Period:
    Information: Graduates from NBCC's two year Criminal Justice:  Corrections program may receive 60 credits towards the following Athabasca Programs:

    Bachelor of Professional Arts in Human Services (BPA-HSRV)
    Bachelor of Professional Arts in Governance, Law & Management (BPA-GLM).
    Bachelor of Professional Arts in Communications Studies (BPA-CMNS).
    Bachelor of Professional Arts in Criminal Justice (BPA-CRJS)
    Institution: Cape Breton University
    Articulation Period:
    Information: Bachelor of Arts Community Studies Degree (BACS).
    NBCC graduates with a minimum grade of 65% can receive up to a maximum of 45 credit hours of transfer towards the 90 credits required for CBU's 3 year BACS degree and a maximum of 51 credit hours of transfer towards the 120 credits required for CBU's 4 year BACS degree
    Institution: St. Thomas University
    Articulation Period:
    Information: Bachelor of Applied Arts in Criminal Justice.
    NBCC graduates with a minimum cumulative GPA of 70% can receive 2 years credit.

    Disclaimer: This web copy provides guidance to prospective students, applicants, current students, faculty and staff. Although advice is readily available on request, the responsibility for program selection ultimately rests with the student. Programs, admission requirements and other related information is subject to change.


    Ask us

    Career Coach