Diploma in Justice Studies

Bow Valley College in downtown Calgary provides a student-centered, career-focused education designed for practical outcomes. Founded in 1965, the college emphasizes small classes, applied learning and strong support services, serving a diverse community with programs aligned to local and global labour needs. Its compact urban location gives students access to Calgary’s business and cultural scene while benefiting from a close-knit campus atmosphere.

Programs at Bow Valley prioritize employability through practicum placements, industry-relevant curricula and active partnerships with employers. Faculty and staff bring real-world experience to the classroom, and the college’s high graduate employment rate reflects its commitment to career-ready training. Support services, language instruction and workshops ensure students develop both technical skills and the intercultural competencies needed to succeed in multicultural workplaces.

International students will find resources to help with transition, including advising, orientation and opportunities to engage in volunteer and campus activities that build networks and professional experience. The college’s focus on affordability and transfer pathways also makes it attractive for those planning further study in Canada. If you want a practical, supportive environment with direct links to employment, Bow Valley College offers a purposeful route to skills, credentials and local industry connections.

The Justice Studies Diploma program prepares students for careers in law, criminology, ethics, and community engagement. Students learn practical skills through inclusive, hands-on training. The curriculum emphasizes wellness, diversity, and trauma-informed care to support individuals and communities with cultural awareness.

The program is delivered in two formats: in-person on the Calgary campus or online through scheduled virtual classes using MS Teams. Both options include recorded lectures and live assessments. A Work Integrated Learning component is required, involving either a practicum or applied research project. Students must complete a Police Information Check with Vulnerable Sector Search before their final term.

The program starts in September and January each year. Domestic students apply through the college's system. Graduates can work in policing, corrections, victim services, youth justice, court services, and public safety. The diploma also provides a pathway to further study at institutions like Athabasca University and Grant MacEwan University.