Community And Justice Services at Algonquin College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-01-21

Program overview

Prepare to work towards social justice in our communities with the two-year Community and Justice Services Ontario College Diploma program. This program emphasizes alternatives to policing and prisons, equipping students with the skills to address critical issues such as criminalization, poverty, affordable housing scarcity, food insecurity, and immigration. Through a blend of theory and practical experiences, students learn to engage with individuals and communities in a manner that respects their inherent dignity and humanity. The program also fosters an understanding of the historical, political, and economic forces that contribute to social justice issues, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to advocate for change.

Program structure

The Community and Justice Services program is structured over a duration of two years, providing a comprehensive education that combines theoretical knowledge with practical application. Key features of the program include:

Field Placement: A mandatory, in-person, unpaid placement in the community and justice field, allowing students to apply their skills in real-world settings.
Professional Development: Opportunities for professional growth are integrated throughout the program.
Multi-disciplinary Approach: The curriculum is designed to provide a balance between practical and theoretical knowledge.
Community Engagement: Students learn to work with diverse populations, addressing issues at both individual and community levels.

This program is available in various delivery formats, including full-time on-campus, full-time online, and part-time online options, ensuring flexibility for students.

Featured Experiences

The Community and Justice Services program offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance learning and professional development:

Field Placement: Students complete a twelve-week block placement in a community and/or justice service agency during their final semester, providing hands-on experience.
Community Engagement: Students actively participate in community-based projects, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world contexts.
Professional Development Workshops: These workshops are included in the program to prepare students for their future careers.
Guest Speakers: The program features guest speakers from various sectors, providing insights into the community and justice fields.
Collaborative Learning: Students engage in group activities and discussions, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Career Options

Graduates of the Community and Justice Services program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Community Support Worker: Assist individuals and families in accessing community resources and support services.
Youth Worker: Work with at-risk youth to provide guidance, support, and advocacy in various settings.
Social Justice Advocate: Promote social change and advocate for marginalized communities through policy development and community organizing.
Case Manager: Coordinate services for clients, ensuring they receive the necessary support for mental health, addiction, or housing issues.
Restorative Justice Facilitator: Lead restorative justice programs that focus on repairing harm and fostering dialogue between victims and offenders.

These roles allow graduates to make a meaningful impact in their communities, addressing critical social issues and promoting justice and equity.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

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Last updated on 2026-01-21

Program overview

Academic Requirements

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

College Eligibility:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent; OR
Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing, for which a fee will be charged.

Program Eligibility:

English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent)
Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

International Students:

IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20 OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.

Program-specific Requirements:

Successful completion of field placement is a requirement for graduation from the Community and Justice Services program. Agencies that provide placement opportunities require you to have a clear Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS). Your acceptance for placement is at the discretion of the agency.
Upon admission to the program, all students must complete the College's Health Assessment process, which includes ensuring that immunizations are up to date.

For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

To apply for the Community and Justice Services Ontario College Diploma program, applicants must meet the following language proficiency requirements:

IELTS - International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.
TOEFL - Internet-based (iBT) overall score of 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component:
- Reading: 20
- Listening: 20
- Speaking: 20
- Writing: 20
Duolingo English Test (DET) - Overall score of 110, with a minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!