Bachelor of Arts - BA in Criminology Vancouver Island University Cowichan Campus

Criminology is an interdisciplinary science that focuses on law and its interpretation by the courts patterns in crime the explanation of deviant and criminal behaviour and society’s reaction to law-breaking. The program introduces students to criminal law the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and case-law decisions made by the courts. Students will examine in separate courses the three main components of the criminal justice system—police courts and corrections—that form an organized response to crime. The program addresses the trends and correlates of crime including the influences of age ethnicity gender and social class. The explanations for crime try to account for these patterns by looking at historical individual and social causes. The criminological focus is broadened with courses from other disciplines in the Social Sciences and Humanities.

VIU’s newest campus offers a broad range of programs and student services in a beautiful and modern LEED Gold Certified facility and a few minutes’ drive away, at the Cowichan Trades Centre. In the heart of Duncan, on the traditional territory of Quw'utsun First Nation, Cowichan Campus is steps from restaurants, shopping and services. Join in outdoor recreation and cultural events, enjoy the bounty of the area's farmlands at farmers’ markets, and arrive at lakes and ocean access in minutes.

At VIU, we work hard to create a learning environment that empowers you to get the most out of your education. Our goal is to set you up for success.

Our international students are valued members of our Vancouver Island University community and we honour your contributions to the VIU family. We recognize the COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for you. We are here to support our current and future students during the global pandemic.

At VIU, you matter, and you will find support every step of the way. Class sizes are small, so dedicated, talented faculty get to know you by name and provide attention and any help you need. We offer a broad network of student supports to make sure you’re set up for success even if things get tough. Along the way, you’ll learn how you can make a difference in your job, your community and maybe even the world. Find a program to match your interests as you prepare for a rewarding career and a fulfilling life.