Community and Justice Services
Prepare to work towards social justice in our communities.
- Program is taught by facilitators who are actively involved in the field
- Courses are built with flexibility in mind and can be accessed anytime and from anywhere
- Students complete a twelve-week block placement in a community and/or justice service agency during the last semester in the program
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Availability varies by course. Click here to view availability for courses in this program.
Schedule
Given the part-time delivery of this program, there is not a standard schedule for all learners.
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Other Campuses
Other Delivery Options
Work Integrated Learning
Eligible for Post-Graduation
Work Permit?
The two-year Community and Justice Services Ontario College Diploma program emphasizes alternatives to policing and prisons and teaches students skills to work with people and communities to address issues such as criminalization, poverty, affordable housing scarcity, food insecurity and immigration. Through theory and practical experiences, the program teaches you to work with people and communities in ways that respect their inherent dignity and humanity. Learn to understand the historical, political and economic forces that create these social justice issues.
In this program, you develop skills such as critical analysis, advocacy, community organizing, group facilitation, conflict mediation, and individual support work with adults, youth and children. You learn the importance of addressing issues not just on an individual level, but also at a community-based level. Woven throughout the program is a commitment to human rights, social justice, and alternatives to policing and prisons....(read more)
Overview
Prepare to work towards social justice in our communities.
The two-year Community and Justice Services Ontario College Diploma program emphasizes alternatives to policing and prisons and teaches students skills to work with people and communities to address issues such as criminalization, poverty, affordable housing scarcity, food insecurity and immigration. Through theory and practical experiences, the program teaches you to work with people and communities in ways that respect their inherent dignity and humanity. Learn to understand the historical, political and economic forces that create these social justice issues.
In this program, you develop skills such as critical analysis, advocacy, community organizing, group facilitation, conflict mediation, and individual support work with adults, youth and children. You learn the importance of addressing issues not just on an individual level, but also at a community-based level. Woven throughout the program is a commitment to human rights, social justice, and alternatives to policing and prisons.
Study topics include:
- Indigenous studies
- anti-racism/anti-oppression
- gender and sexuality studies
- disability justice
- trauma-informed practices
- addiction and harm reduction
- mental health
- community building practices
As a student, you participate in a field placement experience in the community and justice field. In this placement, you identify, practise and integrate skills and theory that you have learned in the program.
Please note that all deliveries of this program require a mandatory, in-person, unpaid placement and is not eligible for PLAR.
Courses
Read this before applying:
This program is undergoing changes for the 23/24 academic year. If you began this program prior to Fall 2023, please refer to the Academic Planner or Archived Program Information to confirm the courses required for your Program of Study. Please also refer to policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements if you are planning on taking a break for two or more consecutive terms. If you require assistance, you can contact your Student Advisor (if you are a full-time online student) or your Program Support Officer (if you are a part-time online student) at https://www.algonquincollege.com/academic-success/ac-online/.
Registration Note:
If you would like to take courses individually or start the program part time, you are not required to apply to the program. You can register for up to three courses per term by clicking on the course title and selecting “Register Online”.
Online |
| Course Number |
Hours | Course Name | Fall |
|---|---|---|---|
| Series: 01 | |||
| COR1834 | 42.0 | Canadian Legal System 1Canadian Legal System 1 In order to support clients, it is necessary to understand the systems and institutions which have significant and often harmful impact on their lives. Students critically examine the different components of the Canadian criminal legal system. Students become familiar with how these components relate to each other, and how legislation impacts the system as a whole. Through assignments and presentations, students explore contemporary issues relating to the field. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1910 | 28.0 | Social Justice SeminarSocial Justice Seminar When working in the community and justice field, it is essential to understand the impact of systemic oppression on people's lives. Students explore a range of social justice issues and deepen empathy for people impacted by these issues. Using self-reflective practices, students examine personal beliefs, feelings, and experiences that inform their perspectives on these issues. Students learn about the historical, social and economic forces that have led to the development of these social justice issues and learn to apply an anti-racist/anti-oppressive lens to understand and discuss social change. Through a variety of activities including group discussions, videos, articles, and personal journals, students begin to understand the ways in which belief systems can impact professional practice with marginalized communities. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1814 | 28.0 | Community and Justice ResourcesCommunity and Justice Resources Those working in the community and justice field must have a strong awareness of the resources and services available to support the people with whom they work. Students explore community supports and programs available for youth and adults. This includes community and social services, alternatives to incarceration, programs inside institutions, as well as after-care and transitional housing programs. Topics are discussed in a seminar-type learning environment, enhanced by guest speakers from various community and institutional resources. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1917 | 28.0 | Indigenous StudiesIndigenous Studies It is essential that workers in the community and justice field have knowledge and understanding of colonization and its impacts on the people with whom we work. Students explore the relationships between Indigenous peoples and settler communities within the context of colonization. Students learn about the legislation and oppressive practices which have had and continue to have an impact on Indigenous people in Canada. These impacts include the Indian Act, residential schools, the Sixties Scoop, contemporary approaches to child protective services and the over-representation of Indigenous peoples in the criminal justice system. Additionally, students examine cultural practices and symbols, self-determination, self-governance, the treaty-making process, as well as resistance and change movements. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1919 | 42.0 | Interviewing and Counselling SkillsInterviewing and Counselling Skills Community and justice workers require a toolkit of counselling approaches to support the people with whom they work. Students develop basic individual support skills widely used in the community and justice field. Students examine approaches and interventions which foster strong and collaborative relationships with clients, including those skills associated with anti-oppressive practice. These skills are developed through a variety of learning approaches, including lectures, role plays, discussions, videos, and small group activities. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1959 | 28.0 | Community Building PracticesCommunity Building Practices Flourishing communities tend to have strong community support systems in place. Students develop an understanding of the foundations of community development by building community with each other and examining concepts of safety and belonging. Students also explore and develop a process for engaging in generative conflict. Through experiential activities, students examine how to centre accessibility in community building and how to engage in practices that address systemic and structural issues in our communities. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| ENL1813A | 42.0 | Communications ICommunications I Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| GED5007 | 42.0 | Transatlantic Slavery and Its AbolitionTransatlantic Slavery and Its Abolition The effects of transatlantic slavery, which began in the 15th century and was not abolished until the 19th, are still present in contemporary social, political and economic systems. In this course, students are provided with a chronological understanding of the transatlantic slave trade that charts: 1) its creation and its economic underpinnings in European and American power and wealth; 2) the resistance to slavery and its eventual abolition; and 3) the afterlife of slavery in the present day. Through class discussion, examination of academic and non-academic literature, and analysis of images and videos, students will be introduced to the history and continuing legacy of the transatlantic slave trade. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| Series: 02 | |||
| COR1740 | 42.0 | Mental HealthMental Health The ways in which various systems (e.g. criminal justice, income assistance, health, education, child welfare, etc.) have been established means that those with mental health disabilities are more likely to come into contact with the law. Involvement in the legal system can also lead to significant mental health distress. Students examine how the community and justice field supports people with mental health disabilities. Students recognize some of the most common signs and symptoms associated with mental health disabilities. Essential information on mental health, including an understanding of assessment and treatment options is explored. Students develop a strengths-based approach to work with clients with mental health disabilities and examine the impacts of stigma, social isolation, and poverty on mental health and wellbeing. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1800 | 42.0 | Sexuality and Gender StudiesSexuality and Gender Studies In order to be an effective community and justice services worker, one must have strong skills to work with people from a wide variety of diverse sexual and gender orientations. Students have the opportunity to discuss themes related to sexuality, sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. Students learn to self-reflect and unpack their internalized beliefs and the societal norms that influence the way that they view topics relating to gender and sexuality. They also learn practical skills to work with diverse clients in a way that is respectful and values their dignity. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1803 | 28.0 | Disability JusticeDisability Justice Disability justice is an intersectional movement started by queer, disabled, people of colour. Students examine the principles of disability justice, explore ableism and accessibility, and take stock of the ways in which this impacts people every day. They also look at the connections between ableism, white supremacy and capitalism, as well as the impact of state violence on people with disabilities. There is an opportunity to hear from a variety of people with different disabled identities through videos, readings and guest speakers. Students develop an understanding of what solidarity work looks like and learn practical ways to make the programs and services that they offer in the field more accessible. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1835 | 42.0 | Canadian Legal System 2Canadian Legal System 2 In the Community and Justice Services field, many clients have experience with the carceral system. Students learn more about this system and how it impacts our community, and they develop an understanding of the organizational framework of federal and provincial correctional systems. Through a critical perspective, emphasis is on the many structural reasons why people become involved in or return to the criminal legal system. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1916 | 42.0 | Group FacilitationGroup Facilitation Community and justice workers are often expected to facilitate groups when working in the field. Students cultivate a capacity to plan and facilitate effective groups. Emphasis is on holding space for people in a group setting to communicate, support, or collaborate with each other. Through applied learning activities, students develop the skills to prepare them for group facilitation in the field. Pre-requisites: COR1919 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1860 | 42.0 | Trauma-Informed PracticeTrauma-Informed Practice It is essential for community and justice workers to have a solid understanding of and empathy for the ways in which trauma can impact behaviour. Using a strengths-based perspective, students develop an understanding of the connection between trauma and criminalization. They focus on the relational and systemic components of trauma including: intergenerational trauma, interpersonal violence, trauma of oppression and colonization, as well as war and genocide. Students learn interventions that support clients to find a sense of safety in the present and connect with resources. Students also examine vicarious trauma and the importance of self-care to this work. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1961 | 28.0 | Anti-Racism/Anti-OppressionAnti-Racism/Anti-Oppression An essential component of community and justice work includes supporting people dealing with systemic barriers to accessing the resources needed to thrive. Many people who continuously face oppression in everyday life also struggle with issues of social identity and self-worth due to internalized oppression. Focus is on developing tools and strategies to support these clients, specifically anti-racist and anti-classist practices. Students hear from guest speakers and engage in role plays, group activities and resource sharing to better enhance their anti-oppressive skill set. Pre-requisites: COR1910 AND COR1917 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| ENL1823A | 42.0 | Communications IICommunications II Students continue to develop their workplace writing and speaking skills. Students learn the protocols to write request letters, daily logs, occurrence reports, proposals and meeting minutes. They prepare for field placement and workplace interviews by creating resumes and undergoing a situational-style job interview. Students also complete a variety of role-play exercises designed to prepare them for speaking tasks in the field, such as participation in meetings and delivery of educational workshops. Pre-requisites: ENL1813A There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| Series: 03 | |||
| COR1801 | 28.0 | Ethics and Professional PracticeEthics and Professional Practice Ethical guidelines inform the day-to-day decisions made by people working in the community and justice field. Focus is on supporting students to develop an ethical decision-making compass based on client rights as well as agency and ministry standards. Students also have the opportunity to sharpen their skills in professional practice in preparation for transitioning into their placement. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1812 | 42.0 | Working with Children, Youth and FamiliesWorking with Children, Youth and Families The skills required to work with children, youth, and families are essential in the community and justice field. Students examine developmentally appropriate approaches to working with children, youth, and caregivers, as well as inclusive practices to support diverse families. Students also have an opportunity to better understand family dynamics and the ways in which family struggles are influenced by forces of oppression. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1804 | 28.0 | Advocacy and Crisis PreventionAdvocacy and Crisis Prevention Trauma-informed practice is a strengths-based approach that focuses on safety, relationship, choice, collaboration and empowerment as well as respect for diversity. It supports community and justice workers to understand how the experiences of clients may shape the ways in which they engage in the system. Students develop trauma-informed case management and advocacy. Student management which is a collaborative process of assessment, planning, systems navigation, and care coordination. They also develop advocacy skills and develop an understanding of how learning appropriate Legislation can assist with this process. Pre-requisites: COR1919 AND COR1960 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1805 | 42.0 | Land-Based Social Justice EducationLand-Based Social Justice Education Land-based social justice education can be used to support the wellbeing of people whom we work with in the community and justice field. People who are impacted by the criminal legal system are typically also impacted by other oppressive forces such as colonization, white supremacy, and racial capitalism. Land-based social justice education focuses on learning from the Land in ways that are inherently decolonial. Students have the opportunity to learn Land-based social justice education practices in the context of connecting with the Land. An emphasis will be placed on Indigenous voices and cross-cultural Land-based social justice practices that inherently promote wellbeing for the people whom we work with. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1806 | 28.0 | Immigration & SettlementImmigration & Settlement Many of the people that we work with in the field find themselves at the intersections between the criminal legal system and the immigration system. It is essential that community and justice workers gain the skills to support and advocate for newcomers. Students examine the history of migration to Canada and understand how it is connected to the racialization process. They look at settlement, the pressures to become 'Canadian' and examine the barriers that many newcomers face due to the inherent exclusionary design of the system. Through the use of guest speakers, case studies and role play opportunities, students develop their skills for supporting newcomers. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1817 | 28.0 | Transformative JusticeTransformative Justice Transformative justice is an approach for responding to violence at the grassroots level without relying on policing and prisons. Students learn about alternatives to the criminal legal system, discussing the history of abolition in Canada and why it is important to Community and Justice Services work. They also examine restorative justice within the community and criminal legal system. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1949 | 28.0 | Addictions and Harm ReductionAddictions and Harm Reduction Substance use should be viewed as occurring on a continuum. As a result, the addiction and recovery support that an individual can seek will vary from person to person. Students learn to work from a client-centered, trauma-informed perspective to support a wide variety of clients dealing with substance use-related challenges. Students also develop competency in harm reduction as well as other addiction counselling modalities. Emphasis is on de-pathologizing and de-stigmatizing narratives associated with drug use as well as anti-racism/anti-oppression. Students have the opportunity to learn from a variety of mediums including guest speakers, videos, discussions, small group activities, and lectures. Pre-requisites: COR1960 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| ENV0002 | 42.0 | Environmental Citizenship | |
| Series: 04 | |||
| COR1963 | 42.0 | Integrative Seminar | |
| COR1965 | 350.0 | Field PlacementField Placement Authentic work experiences provide students with a realistic perspective of a career and provide potential employers with much-desired experience with respect to new employees. Students work in a community or justice services agency selected by the faculty in consultation with the student. This is an opportunity for students to integrate theory and practice. The completion of practicum is based on an assessment of performance by faculty in consultation with the fieldwork supervisor and the student. Pre-requisites: COR1740 AND COR1800 AND COR1801 AND COR1802 AND COR1803 AND COR1804 AND COR1805 AND COR1806 AND COR1807 AND COR1834 AND COR1835 AND COR1910 AND COR1914 AND COR1916 AND COR1917 AND COR1919 AND COR1949 AND COR1959 AND COR1960 AND COR1961 AND ENL1813A AND ENL1823A Co-requisites: COR1966 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| COR1966 | 10.0 | Field Placement SeminarField Placement Seminar Reflective practice provides opportunities for growth and development for all participants. Students have the opportunity to make connections between the theory they have learned in the first three semesters of study and their practical experience in field placement. Students learn from each other's direct experience. Through group discussions and self-reflection opportunities, students continue to build skills as community and justice workers in preparation for employment opportunities in the future. Pre-requisites: COR1740 AND COR1800 AND COR1801 AND COR1802 AND COR1803 AND COR1804 AND COR1805 AND COR1806 AND COR1807 AND COR1834 AND COR1835 AND COR1910 AND COR1914 AND COR1916 AND COR1917 AND COR1919 AND COR1949 AND COR1959 AND COR1960 AND COR1961 AND ENL1813A AND ENL1823A Co-requisites: COR1965 There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| General Education Elective: choose 1 | |||
| AST2000 | 42.0 | Introduction to Astronomy | |
| COR1737 | 42.0 | Psychopathology - an Introduction to Mental Illnesses | |
| DSN2100 | 45.0 | Design ThinkingDesign Thinking Design Thinking uses a designer mindset to produce business innovations in products and services, with a focus on deep understanding of and empathy with the people who use them. Following a holistic innovation process for an area of interest or organization, students build an initial business case and apply design thinking and creative problem-solving strategies to make innovation a sustainable practice. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| ENL1798 | 42.0 | Contemporary Canadian Issues | |
| ENV5004 | 42.0 | Waste-Free OntarioWaste-Free Ontario Ontario continues to generate more and more waste; historically, three quarters of this waste has been discarded. In this course, learners are introduced to the tremendous environmental and economic opportunities that exist to embrace resource conservation ideology and a circular economy - a system in which products are never discarded, but reused, recycled and reintroduced into new products. With interactive activities, videos, and gaming; learners identify concepts and technologies to make informed decisions regarding waste management. Learners reflect on material learned, connect it to their own personalized industry or interest, and locate innovation and entrepreneurship opportunities. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| FAM1003 | 40.0 | Psychology of LearningPsychology of Learning Students explore how individuals acquire knowledge and skills and how environments influence the learning process. Through examination of different theories from both historical and current perspectives, students develop an understanding of how learning is influenced by developmental, psychological and social elements. Students use real life experiences to identify how these theories can be used to support learning and development within continuously changing environments. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| FIN2300 | 42.0 | Introduction to Personal FinanceIntroduction to Personal Finance Establishing and maintaining healthy personal financial affairs are important steps towards autonomy and agency. Students discover how financial decision-making is a continuous process, requiring foundation skills in economics, behavioural science, and surprisingly, Canadian history. Through personal reflection, analysis of economic lived experiences, and application of practical budgeting and financial planning strategies, students acquire knowledge and skills to harness the power of money. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| GED0021 | 42.0 | Disability in Arts: Portrayals and IdentityDisability in Arts: Portrayals and Identity All forms of art have a powerful influence on our perceptions. Students describe and explore through case studies a range of disabilities and their unique features. Using arts, enquiry and discussion, students critique historical and modern-day portrayals of individuals with disabilities. Students consider the attitudes and social barriers that individuals with disabilities face, and focus on the link between the formation of cultural identity and the arts. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| GED0022 | 42.0 | Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-Being | |
| GED2200 | 42.0 | Free Speech and the Challenge of Social MediaFree Speech and the Challenge of Social Media This course will allow students to explore social media and its effects on free speech and public discourse in contemporary society. It will cover the philosophical foundations of free speech, the legal and institutional expressions of free speech in modern democracies, the characteristics of social media infrastructure, how our society's free speech is being influenced if not transformed by this infrastructure, and perspectives on the need, or not, for regulatory fixes advanced from different viewpoints. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| GED5010 | 42.0 | The Fungus Among UsThe Fungus Among Us Understanding fungi is critical for a more complete picture of both natural history, as well as historical and current human affairs. Students learn the major groups of fungi most of which are beneficial to humans. Students learn the influence of fungi on historical and cultural activities including art and food. Students also examine the direct involvement of fungi on industrial processes and current medical and biotechnological processes. Students explore the role of fungi as it relates to soil fertility and best practices in agriculture and environmental sustainability. Students will connect fungi to the world around them. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| GED5301 | 42.0 | On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid)On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid) Though death is an immutable consequence of life, society's attitudes and reactions to it have been ever-changing. The viewpoint that life is sacrosanct, to be protected at all costs, is now being challenged by individuals demanding greater control of their quality of life, including the right to die. An historical overview of attitudes towards death will be examined, with a focus on the growing acceptability of medical assistance in dying (MAID), and the reasons behind this movement (demographics, economics, medicine). This course, through discussion of differing social perspectives, government legislation, case studies, research, images and videos will provide students a greater understanding of society's past and present approaches to death. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| GED7105 | 42.0 | Professionalism and Ethics | |
| GEO0012 | 42.0 | Foreign Landscapes and Their InhabitantsForeign Landscapes and Their Inhabitants Understanding the natural environment and the geological features and landscapes that shape our world is vital for students to have a greater understanding and respect for others by being more globally and culturally aware. The transformation of Earth as we know it has been a 4.5 billion year marvel in the making. The ever-changing continents, oceans, seas, and geographic landforms continue to reshape our world. Through the exploration of the unique landscapes of Earth and the examination of the geographic distribution of populations, countries, and regions of the world, students will use virtual field trips, case studies, and web quests to enhance their sense of global community. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| MGT2346 | 42.0 | Introduction to E-Business | |
| PSY0010 | 42.0 | Criminal Psychology - Psychopathic MindsCriminal Psychology - Psychopathic Minds What makes a psychopath tick? Are they born that way, or are they products of society? Are serial killers really possessed with evil, or do they know exactly what they are doing? In this course, students will study how and why some individuals become criminals and why some actually become killers. You will study what is known about serial killers, stalkers, rapists and criminals. Also, the latest techniques used in criminal profiling and questioning will be examined. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
| SCI2200 | 42.0 | Dynamic Dna: You Are Not AloneDynamic Dna: You Are Not Alone DNA is the recipe book for all living things. This small molecule can tell us about our past, present, and future. It is what makes us all unique and what ties us together. DNA can answer some of life's biggest questions: Where do we come from? How are we made? Can we cure disease? Can we predict the future or change the outcome? In this course, we will examine the spectacular DNA molecule and how it works. Through contemporary articles, research, images, and videos, we will investigate ways in which DNA can be used to predict traits, detect disease, discover ancestry and engineer babies. We will look at DNA's involvement in our evolution, and how we can harness its powers to create superfoods, change a wolf into a pug or clone extinct species. Through a combination of discussion boards, quizzes and assignments, students will discuss DNA history, technology and social attitudes, providing them with a greater understanding of their genetic make-up, both on a personal and global level. There are no classes currently scheduled for this course. | |
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find employment in: community-based agencies offering programs and support to youth and/or adults who need services related to issues such as: mental health; family violence; addictions; disability supports; resettlement; employment; housing.
Pathways
Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.
Learning Outcomes
- Communicate in a manner consistent with professional ethics and practice, and a respect for self, others, and relevant law, policies and legislation.
- Employ all relevant static and dynamic safety and security techniques to ensure the protection of the public, staff, and clients in institutional, residential, and community settings.
- Intervene with clients, individually and in groups, in order to address and manage barriers to promote inclusion, positive growth and personal development.
- Collect information, observe, monitor, record and assess client behaviour accurately in compliance with legal and organizational requirements.
- Assist in the prevention, management and resolution of conflict, crises, and emergency situations using intervention strategies as prescribed by relevant legislative requirements and industry certification and/or standards.
- Develop and maintain positive working relationships with colleagues, supervisors and community justice stakeholders to maintain a productive, professional and safe working environment.
- Engage in program planning, implementation, assessment, and evaluation to meet the needs of clients, staff, community and administration within the context of an interdisciplinary setting.
- Apply knowledge of the history, philosophy, and diverse models of corrective action, of detention, rehabilitation, and reintegration to decision-making and institutional practices.
- Develop and implement self-care strategies using self-awareness, self-inquiry and reflection.
- Work in a manner consistent with professional ethics demonstrating respect for self, others and relevant legislation, policies and procedures in a multi-disciplinary workplace.
- Assess and respond to the strengths and needs of clients, including complex responses impacted by mental health, addictions and other social factors in order to support and promote positive change.
- Promote inclusive practices within community and justice services to increase understanding within the community and meet the needs of diverse populations.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
2025/2026 Academic Year
Fees are subject to change.
Fees for part-time programs are charged on a course-by-course basis and are published on each individual course page. For questions related to fees, please call the Registrar's Office at 613-727-0002.
Graduation Fee:
Once you have completed all the courses in the program, it is the responsibility of the student to complete a credential application (https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/certificationgraduating/). A graduation fee is charged when the application is submitted. After your credential application has been approved, you will be invited to Convocation.
Additional program related expenses include:
Books and supplies cost approximately $1,500 over the program duration and can be purchased from the campus store. For more information visit www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials
Field Placement is an unpaid full-time commitment. All expenses related to placement are the responsibility of the student.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
The following requirements are recommended to ensure success in the program:
- 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
The following requirements are recommended to ensure success in the program:
- English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
- It is recommended applicants with international transcripts have the following IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo scores to ensure success:
- 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.
Application Information
Read this before applying:
This program is undergoing changes for the 23/24 academic year. If you began this program prior to Fall 2023, please refer to the Academic Planner or Archived Program Information to confirm the courses required for your Program of Study. Please also refer to policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements if you are planning on taking a break for two or more consecutive terms. If you require assistance, you can contact your Student Advisor (if you are a full-time online student) or your Program Support Officer (if you are a part-time online student) at https://www.algonquincollege.com/academic-success/ac-online/.
Registration Note:
If you would like to take courses individually or start the program part time, you are not required to apply to the program. You can register for up to three courses per term by clicking on the course title and selecting “Register Online”.
Additional Information
Program Resources
The Community and Justice Service Program is offered full time on campus in Ottawa with a Fall start date only.
This program is also offered full-time online and part-time online, asynchronous with a Fall, Winter, and Spring term start.
NOTE: to Qualify for the AC Online part-time delivery of this diploma, you must complete the program within six years.
International students wishing to study online should visit www.algonquincollege.com/online/international for information related to International online students and for International fees information prior to registering. Please note that AC Online programs do not qualify international students for new study permits or study permit extensions.
The Community and Justice Services program has numerous articulation agreements with university programs. Students may find further information on degree pathways at www.algonquincollege.com/degree-pathways
Program Progression:
This applies to all students studying on-campus and online.
As per policy AA39: Program Progression and Graduation Requirements when students are admitted to a program, they are assigned to the Program of Study that aligns with their start date. If a student takes a break for two or more consecutive terms the Program of Study is reset to align with the current version (when studies are resumed).
Any student studying in any Level 01 and 02 courses over the Summer will NOT be eligible for field placement until all credits have been successfully completed. This means that students who successfully complete their level two studies by the end of April will be given first consideration during the field placement selection process.
For online students to transfer on campus for the second year, students must have completed Level 02 by May 1st of the yar they intend to transfer. Students who have not completed Level 02 by this date will be required to wait to transfer the next academic year.
Those who are unsuccessful in three or more courses in a single semester will be withdrawn from the program.
Field Placement Requirement:
Successful completion of field placement is required for graduation from the Community and Justice Services program. Agencies providing placement opportunities require a clear Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS). Placement acceptance is at each agency's discretion. Students without a clear PRCSVS who are unable to participate in placement will be ineligible for graduation.
Field Placement Overview:
In the final semester, students complete a 12-week placement with a community or justice-based agency to gain practical experience in the field. Students are expected to work approximately 32 hours per week, as scheduled by the agency. Placement is full-time, unpaid, and any expenses related to placement are the student's responsibility.
Field Placement Eligibility:
To qualify for placement, students must meet these requirements by the set deadlines:
- Successful completion of Levels 01, 02 and 03
- Placement Pass Clearance (through ParaMed)
- Up-to-date immunizations with supporting records
- PRCVSC within the last six months
- Certification in Standard First Aid/CPR Level C
Important Note:
All documents and certifications required for the program and placement are the student's responsibility, including associated costs.
Additional Resources:
Further placement information for online students can be found on the Online Field Placement Centre: https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/field-placement
Prior Learning and Recognition (PLAR):
Students who wish to apply for PLAR need to demonstrate competency at a postsecondary level in all of the course learning requirements. Evidence of learning achievements for PLAR candidates may include a comprehensive challenge examination and/or completion of a portfolio.
Academic Planner:
The Academic Planner provides registered part-time students the ability to declare into a program of study. The Academic Planner outlines successfully completed courses to date, as well as courses that need to be completed in order to meet graduation requirements. It is therefore, essential that all part-time students declare to their program of study, allowing administrators to plan course offerings. The tool is available on ACSIS, located under 'Part-time Students' on the left-hand toolbar.
Contact
Future Students
For additional information, please contact our Customer Service Representative team at online@algonquincollege.com and they will direct you to the best person to answer your specific questions.
Current Students
For additional information, please reference the AC Online Circle of Care.