Community and Justice Services
Choose a career that teaches you to fight for social justice!
- 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
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
Competitive?
Spring 2025
No
Fall 2025
No
Winter 2026
No
Spring 2026
No
Schedule
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
Choose a career that teaches you to fight for social justice!
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
- addictions 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.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Have an interest in social justice and working towards change in their community.
- Have a commitment to anti-racism.
- Have a strong sense of empathy for others.
- Are collaborative and comfortable working and learning in group environments.
- Can work independently.
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 fulltime online student) or your Program Support Officer (if you are a part-time online student) at https://www.algonquincollege.com/academic-success/ac-online/.
Online  On campus:  |
| Course Number |
Hours | Course Name | Summer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level: 01 | |||
| COR1834 | 42.0 | Canadian Legal System 1Canadian Legal System 1This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1910 | 28.0 | Social Justice SeminarSocial Justice SeminarThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1914 | 42.0 | Community and Justice ResourcesCommunity and Justice ResourcesThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1917 | 28.0 | Indigenous StudiesIndigenous StudiesThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1919 | 42.0 | Interviewing and Counselling SkillsInterviewing and Counselling SkillsThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1959 | 28.0 | Community Building PracticesCommunity Building PracticesThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENL1813A | 42.0 | Communications ICommunications IThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED5007 | 42.0 | Transatlantic Slavery and Its AbolitionTransatlantic Slavery and Its AbolitionThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Level: 02 | |||
| COR1740 | 42.0 | Mental HealthMental HealthThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1800 | 42.0 | Sexuality and Gender StudiesSexuality and Gender StudiesThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1803 | 28.0 | Disability JusticeDisability JusticeThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1835 | 42.0 | Canadian Legal System 2Canadian Legal System 2This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1916 | 42.0 | Group FacilitationGroup FacilitationThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1960 | 28.0 | Trauma-Informed PracticeTrauma-Informed PracticeThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1961 | 28.0 | Anti-Racism/Anti-OppressionAnti-Racism/Anti-OppressionThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENL1823A | 42.0 | Communications IICommunications IIThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Level: 03 | |||
| COR1801 | 28.0 | Ethics and Professional PracticeEthics and Professional PracticeThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1802 | 28.0 | Working with Children, Youth and FamiliesWorking with Children, Youth and FamiliesThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1804 | 28.0 | Advocacy and Crisis PreventionAdvocacy and Crisis PreventionThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1805 | 42.0 | Land-Based Social Justice EducationLand-Based Social Justice EducationThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1806 | 28.0 | Immigration & SettlementImmigration & SettlementThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1807 | 42.0 | Transformative JusticeTransformative JusticeThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1949 | 28.0 | Addictions and Harm ReductionAddictions and Harm ReductionThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENV0002 | 42.0 | Environmental CitizenshipEnvironmental CitizenshipEnvironmental citizenship is based on the principles of national citizenship, yet it goes beyond political borders to emphasize global environmental rights and responsibilities. An environmental citizen is committed to learning more about the environment and to taking responsible environmental action. Through a combination of interactive activities, assignments and discussions, students learn how they are personally connected with current environmental issues. Students are also encouraged to adopt attitudes and behaviours that foster global environmental responsibility. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| Level: 04 | |||
| COR1963 | 42.0 | Integrative SeminarIntegrative SeminarIn preparation for the employment search, students need to be able to articulate their skillset. Students participate in a two-week intensive course that brings together theory and practice, and provides students with the opportunity to integrate the learning they have had over the two-year Community and Justice Services program. Students develop the skills necessary to clearly and concisely articulate the skillset they have developed during their participation in the CJS program. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1965 | 350.0 | Field PlacementField PlacementThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1966 | 10.0 | Field Placement SeminarField Placement SeminarReflective 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. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| General Education Elective: choose 1 | |||
| AST2000 | 42.0 | Introduction to AstronomyIntroduction to AstronomyWhat can the sky tell us about our place in the universe, and how life began? This introductory course to astronomy will teach students indigenous and Western constellations in the sky, as well as introduce them to the major planets. Students will act as beginning astronomers and engineers by performing sketches, doing research on astronomy topics, and learning about missions to Mars that are on the hunt for signs of life. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| COR1737 | 42.0 | Psychopathology - an Introduction to Mental IllnessesPsychopathology - an Introduction to Mental IllnessesEmphasis is on the study of signs and symptoms of the major mental illnesses, including bipolar disorder, major depression, schizophrenia and personality disorders. Additionally, there are discussions about eating and sleeping disorders, stress and post-traumatic stress disorder. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| DSN2100 | 45.0 | Design ThinkingDesign ThinkingThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENL0009 | 42.0 | Introduction to Children's LiteratureIntroduction to Children's LiteratureThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENL0010 | 42.0 | Science FictionScience FictionThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENL1798 | 42.0 | Contemporary Canadian IssuesContemporary Canadian IssuesA critical understanding of contemporary Canadian issues is vital to being an active member in our democratic society. Students explore a variety of topics and analyze their ethical implications and relevance to Canadian life. Discussions, debates and other collaborative activities offer opportunities to consider recent controversies from different perspectives, and use of a variety of media (e.g. newspapers, articles, and other resources online) allows for in-depth reflection on the history and current state of a range of social and political topics. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| ENV5004 | 42.0 | Waste-Free OntarioWaste-Free OntarioThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| FAM1003 | 40.0 | Psychology of LearningPsychology of LearningStudents 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. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED0021 | 42.0 | Disability in Arts: Portrayals and IdentityDisability in Arts: Portrayals and IdentityThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED0022 | 42.0 | Positive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-BeingPositive Psychology: the Science of Happiness and Well-BeingWhile fulfillment and well-being mark some people's lives, many others remain dissatisfied with life. Positive Psychology is concerned with explaining how individuals and communities flourish through the scientific exploration of happiness, optimal human functioning, and civic engagement. The field of Positive Psychology has the objective of making life more satisfying and meaningful through interventions that promote and develop qualities such as self-knowledge, learned optimism, gratitude, mindfulness, resilience, and community connection. Students participate in both interactive lectures and on-line discussions, maintain weekly journals, and develop personal strengths through direct engagement with well-being initiatives. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED2200 | 42.0 | Free Speech and the Challenge of Social MediaFree Speech and the Challenge of Social MediaThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED5010 | 42.0 | The Fungus Among UsThe Fungus Among UsThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED5301 | 42.0 | On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid)On Death, Dying and Medical Assistance in Dying (Maid)This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GED7105 | 42.0 | Professionalism and EthicsProfessionalism and EthicsProfessionalism and ethics are the foundation for those preparing for leadership roles in the workplace, community and educational settings. By exploring the different facets of leadership theory and ethical dilemmas, students develop decision making, judgment, and personal value positions that form the basis for the examination of professional conduct and personal accountability. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| GEO0012 | 42.0 | Foreign Landscapes and Their InhabitantsForeign Landscapes and Their InhabitantsThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| MGT2346 | 42.0 | Introduction to E-BusinessIntroduction to E-BusinessStudents are provided with tools, skills, an understanding of technology, business concepts and issues that surround the emergence of electronic business. Emphasis is on that part of the Internet known as the World Wide Web (WWW), where such tools as browsers are used. In addition to acquiring basic skills for navigating the Internet, students develop an understanding of the current practices and opportunities in electronic publishing, electronic shopping, electronic distribution and electronic collaboration. Students also explore several of the problems surrounding electronic business and commerce, such as security, authentication, privacy, encryption, safeguarding of intellectual property rights, acceptable use policies and legal liabilities. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| PSY0001 | 45.0 | Co-Dependency as an AddictionCo-Dependency as an AddictionThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| PSY0007 | 42.0 | Cults and TerrorismCults and TerrorismThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| PSY0010 | 42.0 | Criminal Psychology - Psychopathic MindsCriminal Psychology - Psychopathic MindsThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| PSY0014 | 42.0 | Learning, Thinking and Problem SolvingLearning, Thinking and Problem SolvingThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| SCI2200 | 42.0 | Dynamic Dna: You Are Not AloneDynamic Dna: You Are Not AloneThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
| SSC5012 | 42.0 | Anti-Racism, Discrimination and EquityAnti-Racism, Discrimination and EquityThis course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | |
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
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- 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
2024/2025 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar's Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Additional program related expenses include:
The cost of books and supplies is approximately $1,400 over the program duration. For more information visit https://www.algonquincollege.com/coursematerials/students. Students going out of town for field placements may need to account for additional living expenses.
Admissions Requirements
All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.
College Eligibility
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
- Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
- General Educational Development (GED) certificate; 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).
- 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.
Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.
Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English.
Program-specific Requirements:
Though not an admission requirement, applicants must note the important information listed below regarding program-specific requirements which includes a Police Record Check.
Upon admission to the program, all students must complete the College's Health Assessment process, which includes ensuring that immunizations are up to date.
Upon admission to the program, all students must ensure that their immunizations are up to date.
Any student studying in any level two 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.
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. If you register in the program without a clear PRCSVS and as a result are unable to participate in placement, you will not be able to graduate.
For online students to transfer on campus for the second year, students must have completed Level 02 by May 1st of the year 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.
You are required to obtain passing grades in all program courses in order to proceed, and if you fail three or more courses, you will not be allowed to continue in the program.
Field Placement Eligibility:
To be eligible for placement, all third-level students must:
- have completed all of Levels 01, 02 and 03 courses with a minimum grade point average of 2.0.
- submit a Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS).
Note: Acceptance for placement is at the discretion of appropriate and approved program partner agencies. Also, it is the responsibility of the student to pay for and obtain all program and placement required documents and certifications.
Application Information
COMMUNITY AND JUSTICE SERVICES
Program Code 0466X09FAO
Applications to full-time programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar's Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
The Community and Justice Services program has numerous articulation agreements with university programs. Students may find further information on degree pathways at https://www.algonquincollege.com/degree-pathways.
Work Integrated Learning Overview:
There is one placement required in the final semester of the CJS program. This placement will prepare students for a career in the field with a community or justice-based agency. Placement runs for 12 weeks and students will be required to complete 32-36 hours per week with the agency they are placed with. The schedule is determined directly by the agency and students should be prepared to be available for the time requirement of the placement course.
Field Placement:
Students complete one twelve-week block field placement in a community service agency during the fourth semester of the program.
Field Placement Eligibility:
In order to be eligible for placement, students must meet the following requirements prior to the placement deadline:
- Academic Clearance: Students will be required to complete Levels 01, 02, and 03 with a minimum grade point average of 2.0 in order to be academically eligible to participate in placement.
- Placement Request Form: Students are required to submit a placement request form prior to the placement deadline.
- ParaMed Clearance: Students are required to meet the following medical and non-medical requirements. Upon completion, these requirements must be confirmed through ParaMed, our partner organization: a. Immunization Records; b. Level 3 Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS); c. Standard First Aid/CPR Level C.
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 post-secondary 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.
Program Progression:
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).
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.