College Diploma - Community And Justice Services (1572) at Conestoga College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-02-02

Program overview

+11

Program overview

Conestoga's Community and Justice Services program is a comprehensive two-year integrated diploma designed to equip students with the essential knowledge, skills, attitudes, and professional values necessary for effective work within the criminal justice system. This program emphasizes a trauma-informed and anti-oppressive approach, preparing students for various front-line service careers in both community and institutional settings. Through a blend of classroom instruction and hands-on placement experience, students will gain insights into the historical and contemporary roles of provincial and federal correctional systems in Canada. Graduates have the opportunity to further their education by pursuing a degree in Bachelor of Community and Criminal Justice (Honours) through advanced standing.

Program structure

The Community and Justice Services program is structured to provide a well-rounded educational experience over a period of two years. The program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining both in-person and online learning to accommodate diverse learning styles and schedules. Key features of the program structure include:

Program Length: 2 years
Delivery Method: Hybrid (combination of classroom instruction and online learning)
Hands-on Placement Experience: Practical experience in real-world settings
Trauma-informed and Anti-oppressive Lens: Focus on understanding and addressing the needs of the offender population

This program is designed to prepare students for a variety of roles in the community and justice sectors, ensuring they are well-equipped to meet the challenges of working with individuals involved in the criminal justice system.

Featured Experiences

The Community and Justice Services program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey for students:

Hands-on Placement: Students gain practical experience through placements in community and institutional settings.
Trauma-informed Approach: The curriculum emphasizes understanding trauma and its impact on individuals within the justice system.
Anti-oppressive Framework: Students learn to apply an anti-oppressive lens in their interactions and interventions.
Networking Opportunities: Students have the chance to connect with professionals in the field through events and workshops.
Advanced Standing Options: Graduates can pursue further education in related degree programs.

Career Options

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

Community Service Worker: Support individuals and families in accessing community resources and services.
Correctional Officer: Oversee individuals in correctional facilities, ensuring safety and security while promoting rehabilitation.
Probation Officer: Monitor and support individuals on probation, helping them reintegrate into society.
Social Service Worker: Provide assistance and advocacy for individuals facing social challenges, including those involved in the justice system.
Youth Worker: Work with at-risk youth, providing guidance and support to help them navigate challenges.

These roles require a strong understanding of the criminal justice system, as well as the ability to work compassionately and effectively with diverse populations.

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

Visit Conestoga College official website

Last updated on 2026-02-02

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the College Diploma in Community and Justice Services, applicants must meet the following academic requirements:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, or 19 years of age or older with mature student status.

For those applying as international students, the following requirements apply:
Grade 12 compulsory English, C (60% minimum) or U (50% minimum), or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Communications (COMM1251).
Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

It is important to note that:

Applicants not meeting the English admission requirements may arrange for pre-admission testing to assess subject ability.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents with transcripts from outside Canada require a course-by-course credential evaluation.
Applicants with transcripts from institutions where the language of instruction is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency.

Additionally, there are specific program requirements that must be fulfilled:

Mandatory practicum health and safety requirements must be completed prior to off-campus experiences.
An annual Police Check for Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS) is required, and it must be clear of any unpardoned criminal offences.
Some employment opportunities may require certain physical, legal driving age, and health standards to be met.
Standard First Aid and CPR (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation)/AED (Automated External Defibrillator) Level C may be required by employers.

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

Language Requirements

To apply for the College Diploma - Community And Justice Services (1572) program at Conestoga College, you must provide proof of English proficiency in one of the following ways:

IELTS Academic: Minimum score of 6.0 with no band less than 5.5
TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 (Effective January 2024, no individual skill less than 20)

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!