Criminology & Criminal Justice
Students who study Criminology and Criminal Justice at UFV come from diverse backgrounds. But they all have one thing in common: they have a common focus on applying what they learn, both in their workplace and community.
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My time at UFV was truly a transformative experience. The Criminology program gave me many opportunities to grow both professionally and personally. One of the most impactful experiences was the practicum, which gave me hands-on exposure to the field and allowed me to build meaningful connections. That opportunity directly helped me transition into my first criminal justice role as a residence worker at a halfway house.
I was also given the opportunity to work as a research assistant and conduct my own research, which I then went on to present at academic conferences. The support and mentorship of the professors has allowed me to learn and work outside of my comfort zone. From my first day to now, I have expanded many skills such as public speaking, critical thinking, and communication.
The education I have received at UFV has opened many doors for me. I am currently working in victim services, and will be heading to law school in the fall. Eventually, I aspire to complete a PhD and continue growing in this field so that I can create a further-reaching and more sustainable impact in the developing world.
If I were to do it all over again, I would not change a thing. To those starting at UFV, take advantage of all the opportunities that come your way, even if it makes you uncomfortable. It may feel a lot sometimes, with courses, work, volunteering, and balancing your personal life, but it’s all worth it in the end. You will truly be amazed at how much you grow as a person from the beginning to the end of your journey at UFV.
During the years I have spent studying within UFV’s Criminology and Criminal Justice program (C/CJ), I have gained many rich learning experiences. These experiences were only made possible through classroom lectures, which are delivered by the extraordinary faculty UFV has to offer, and the volunteer or practicum opportunities that are facilitated by the department’s advisor and faculty.
While I have just recently graduated with my C/CJ diploma, I am planning on continuing to obtain my degree at UFV with the end goal of working in corrections. While education is of utmost importance, I will also be doing my best to volunteer with various organizations to not only gain field experience, but to create the necessary connections and relationships with individuals already working in the field. As of right now, I am volunteering with the Reintegration Through Relationship Society where I will be partaking in and witnessing Indigenous ceremonies in Kwikwexwelhp Healing Village (a minimum-security institution for Indigenous men) and focusing on assisting with the creation of new programs for incarcerated individuals.
If you are interested in pursuing a Crim-based program, I would highly suggest considering UFV! If there is any advice I could provide to you, it would be to enjoy your time with your courses (they only last so long!), remember to take breaks and utilize the resources that the university provides, and to frequently communicate with an advisor to ensure that you are on an optimized path for your individual.
The Criminology program at UFV taught me how to think critically, research issues deeply, and engage in debate by considering different perspectives and steelmanning positions. It was also where I made lasting connections — with peers and professors alike. What stood out most was how my professors treated me as a peer, challenged my perspectives, and ultimately helped me reach my full potential.
The Criminology and Criminal Justice Program offered at UFV was undoubtedly one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. From 100 to 400-level classes to electives, the many courses offered are engaging, interesting, and challenge you to grow and think critically in ways you didn’t know you were capable.
Throughout my time at UFV, I felt seen by all the professors who came along my way. They not only aided me with any questions but also served as my encouragers, helping me see my potential, especially in times when I doubted my abilities. I can proudly say that obtaining my Criminology Degree here at UFV has been one of my greatest accomplishments.
As an alumni, I encourage all future students debating applying for the Criminology Program to do so. You’ll learn a vast amount of knowledge about the Canadian Criminal Justice System that you can then apply to any specific Criminal Justice field to make a change.