Last updated on 2026-10-01
Program overview
The Victimology and Victim Studies program at Ontario Tech University offers students a chance to gain specialized knowledge in various aspects of victim experiences. This includes understanding the issues facing victims, engaging in victimology research that informs policy and practice, and exploring victim advocacy and social justice activism. The program critically examines how victimology is influenced by media, law, ethics, and the criminal justice system. Students will delve into criminological and sociological explanations of crime, while also considering societal definitions of crime and criminality. This interdisciplinary approach draws from criminology, sociology, philosophy, psychology, and law, encouraging students to think about crime and justice through the lenses of fairness, equity, peace, and justice.
Program structure
The Victimology and Victim Studies program is designed to be completed in either four or five years, depending on the chosen path. Here are some key features of the program structure:
- Delivery method: In-class learning
- Location: Ontario Tech University, Downtown Oshawa
- Start dates: September and January
- Program load: Full-time
- Experiential learning opportunities, including:
- Co-op placements
- Internships
- Practicum experiences
- Research studies
- Undergraduate thesis
Students have the option to apply for a direct-entry co-op program, which provides full-time, paid employment opportunities, allowing them to gain practical experience while studying.
Featured Experiences
The Victimology and Victim Studies program offers a variety of unique experiences to enhance student learning:
- Co-op positions that provide full-time, paid employment opportunities.
- Experiential work terms that allow students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings.
- Internships that offer hands-on experience in relevant fields.
- Practicum courses that include 100 hours of fieldwork, in-class seminars, and academic assignments.
- Research study opportunities that encourage students to engage in scholarly inquiry.
- Undergraduate thesis projects that allow for in-depth exploration of specific topics within victimology.
These experiences are designed to help students develop essential workplace skills and foster personal and professional growth.
Career Options
Graduates of the Victimology and Victim Studies program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:
- Addictions Rehabilitation Counsellor: Support individuals struggling with substance abuse through counseling and recovery programs.
- Child and Youth Worker: Work with at-risk youth to provide guidance, support, and intervention strategies.
- Corrections Officer: Oversee individuals in correctional facilities, ensuring safety and rehabilitation.
- Human Rights Advocate: Promote and protect the rights of individuals and communities facing injustice.
- Policy Analyst: Research and analyze policies related to victimology and social justice to inform decision-making.
Other potential career options include roles as a law enforcement officer, legal researcher, social services worker, and government administrator. The program equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in these fields.
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.
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