Criminology and Policing (BA)

Explore the causes of crime and the complexities of justice through Wilfrid Laurier University's online combined Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminology and Policing program.  
 
You’ll examine the causes of crime, the role of policing and how communities respond to justice issues. Learn from current research in criminology and policing while examining crime trends, prevention strategies and the social factors shaping the justice system. Graduate with critical thinking, research and analytical skills for careers in policing, criminal justice, public service, community organizations and related fields.
crime scene tape

Program Details

Discover what makes this Laurier program unique and how you’ll gain real-world experience.

Why Should I Choose Criminology and Policing?

Your future professors work hard to make sure your academic experience is current, complete and designed to open doors in your career. Here are a few things you can count on:

  • Learn from the Experts
    Armed with years of real-world experience, your future professors are eager to provide you with the relevant and up-to-date knowledge. Our ongoing consultation with law enforcement agencies across Canada helps to shape the topics covered in your policing courses.
  • A Career-Ready Education
    During your degree you’ll focus on applying relevant criminological and psychological theories to criminal investigations and law enforcement issues, analyzing and interpreting data that contributes to policy development, refining leadership skills and developing research methods.
  • Built-In Flexibility
    Our asynchronous, online part-time programming removes barriers typically faced by those living far from campus, or those with full-time work and personal obligations.

How Will I Gain Real-World Experience?

Here are just a few of our students’ favourite ways to apply their learning in the real world throughout their degree (check out the Criminology Experience Guide for even more!):

  • Access to Professionals
    Enjoy learning from, and having conversational access to, professors with law enforcement and public safety backgrounds.
  • Resumé-Building
    Get a head-start on your resume and take advantage of the Laurier Experience Record, an innovative database of your notable curricular and co-curricular experience that you can share with employers.
  • Conferences
    Attend and participate in a Criminology conference.
  • Online Learning
    Benefit from an active online community of peers through Laurier’s online learning platform, MyLearningSpace.

Courses and Program Enhancements

Explore what you'll study and how you can enhance your degree to fit your academic and career goals.

What Courses Will I Take?

Get a glimpse of what you will study throughout your degree. See what your first-year classes will look like through sample courses and start exploring what your upper academic years can offer.

How Can I Enhance My Degree?

Explore a variety of courses, specializations and pathway options that let you shape your degree around your unique interests and goals. Find out how you can customize your experience and prepare for what’s next.

Admissions

  • Format: part time
  • Duration: approx. four to five years*
  • Start: September (fall term), January (winter term) or May (spring term)

*Exact program duration will depend on number of credits taken per term and any applicable transfer credits.

Career Options

It’s not only about the journey; it’s about the destination. Let us help you get to where you're going.

What Jobs Can I Get After Graduation?

  • corrections officer
  • mediator
  • ombudsperson
  • paralegal
  • police officer
  • public administration

Note: Additional training and education may be required.

Explore more careers.

Will I Be Supported After Graduation?

As a Laurier alum, you'll have access to Career and Employment Support offered at Laurier for your entire career.

Tuition and Costs

What are the Tuition Fees and Costs for Human and Social Sciences at Laurier?

Below is a breakdown of tuition fees and expenses for Laurier Human and Social Sciences (HSS) students for one year (or two terms) studying full time. Fees are based on 2026/27 rates and are subject to increase. All fees are shown in Canadian dollars.

Tuition Fees for HSS Students
Fee Type Domestic Students International Students
Tuition $6,180 $36,624
Student Fees $1,830 $2,778
Textbook Fees $1,500 $1,500

See a full breakdown of your first-year expenses.

Scholarships and Bursaries

When you apply to Laurier you’ll be automatically assessed for entrance scholarships (based on your final admission average) and for in-course scholarships in your upper years (based on your Laurier GPA from the previous academic year). We also offer more than 700 competitive scholarships and awards, which require separate applications and may be awarded throughout the academic year.

Additional Financial Support

  • Get information and advice on eligibility for government assistance (like OSAP) from our Financial Aid office.
  • Apply for bursaries to receive additional support based on financial need and academic performance.
  • Learn money management skills through courses, workshops and financial coaching.
  • Visit the Career Centre for support finding part-time job opportunities.

 

Laurier graduates employed or in post‑graduate studies in 2025

 

Laurier students engaged in hands‑on learning in 2025/26

 

Laurier is among the top 7 percent in the Center for World University Rankings 2026

How Will I Learn in This Program?

Learn from wherever you are connected to the internet. You'll have the flexibility to study from home by joining live virtual classes at set times (virtual synchronous), or working through course material on your own schedule (virtual asynchronous).
 
While the program is delivered online, some courses may require in-person exams, either on campus or at an approved testing location near your home.

Subscribe to Emails

Become a Laurier insider to get quick, fun and informative updates along your application journey.

Get in Touch

Have questions? Email chooselaurier@wlu.ca, call 548‑889‑8888 or see all contact information.


You Belong Here

Think this program might be the perfect fit for you and your future?