Be ready to make a positive impact with a career in corrections, or further your education if you choose.

Gain the skills and experience you need to prepare for a rewarding and challenging career in corrections. After learning about risk assessment and management, principles of behaviour change, conflict resolution skills, criminology and psychology, you’ll have the option to enrol in a practicum elective to gain hands-on experience.

Be a Student for a Day
Courtroom

Why should you study Criminal Justice – Corrections at Lethbridge Polytechnic?

You’ll benefit from more than 50 years of public safety education and apply theory and knowledge through experiential learning in state-of-the-art classrooms such as the courtroom, crisis apartment, interview rooms and conflict simulator rooms. You’ll also share a common first year with the Criminal Justice – Policing diploma. This common first year gives you the opportunity to take two extra semesters to earn a second diploma in Policing. Both Corrections and Policing diploma programs ladder into the polytechnic’s Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree.

50+ years

of delivering quality public safety education

Ready to go further?

With two additional years of study earn your degree in our Bachelor of Criminal Justice post-diploma.

Build on your credentials

With one more year of study, you can graduate from the Criminal Justice - Policing diploma.

Career Opportunities

At the end of the program, you'll be prepared for work throughout the criminal justice system in positions such as:

  • Federal correctional officer                                                               
  • Halfway house counsellor                                                                 
  • Provincial correctional officer                                                           
  • Victim services worker
  • Youth worker
32%

of our Corrections grads had a related job before they even graduated from the program

$42,534

the average annual salary of a correctional service worker in Alberta

Visit ALIS website for more career information.

At-a-Glance

Starts-in

September (on-campus and online), January and May (online only)

Credential / Accreditation

Diploma

Duration

2 years

International Eligibility

This program is available for International Students.

Application Deadlines

Visit the Program Application Status page for more details.

Program Availability
Domestic Status
International Status
PGWP Eligible
Notes
Fall 2026
Open
Closed
Ineligible
On Campus
Fall 2026
Open
Unavailable
Ineligible
Online
Summer 2026
Closed
Unavailable
Ineligible
Online
Winter 2027
Open
Unavailable
Ineligible
Online

Admissions

Apply Now
Admission Requirements
General Admissions Requirements

All applicants must meet the general admission requirements for Lethbridge Polytechnic programs.

Note:  Effective for the 2027-2028 academic year, applicants will be required to meet the following admissions requirements:

  • English 30-1 or 30-2 or equivalent
  • Math 20-1 or 20-2 or equivalent
  • Social Studies 30-1 or 30-2 or equivalent
  • Demonstrate English language proficiency
Medical Requirements

Although no physical requirements are placed on applicants for entry to the program, applicants should ensure through a medical examination that their cardiovascular system is suitable to undertake fitness-related exercise.

Graduation

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, students are awarded a diploma in Criminal Justice - Corrections. 

Note: Employing agencies may have additional requirements such as a valid driver’s licence, Standard First Aid and CPR. Learners are encouraged to maintain their credentials in these areas so that they are current at time of graduation.

Transfers
Partner InstitutionPartner ProgramIncoming/OutgoingEffective Dates and Details
Athabasca University Bachelor of Professional Arts - Communication Studies Outgoing
September 2022 - August 2028

Bachelor of Professional Arts - Communication Studies

Graduates of Lethbridge Polytechnic's Criminal Justice - Corrections Diploma are eligible to receive up to 60 credits towards Athabasca University's Bachelor of Professional Arts - Communication Studies. Students should consult Academic Advising at Athabasca University or visit their website for more information.

Athabasca University Bachelor of Professional Arts - Governance, Law, and Management Outgoing
September 2022 - August 2028

Bachelor of Professional Arts - Governance, Law, and Management

Graduates of Lethbridge Polytechnic's Criminal Justice - Correction diploma are eligible to receive up to 60 credits towards a Bachelor of Professional Arts - Governance, Law, and Management. Students should consult Academic Advising at Athabasca University or visit their website for more information.

Athabasca University Bachelor of Professional Arts - Criminal Justice Outgoing
September 2022 - August 2028

Bachelor of Professional Arts - Criminal Justice

Graduates of Lethbridge Polytechnic's Criminal Justice - Corrections Diploma are eligible to receive up to 60 credits towards Athabasca University's Bachelor of Professional Arts - Criminal Justice. Students should consult Academic Advising at Athabasca University or visit their website for more information.

Athabasca University Bachelor of Professional Arts - Human Services Outgoing
September 2022 - August 2028

Bachelor of Professional Arts - Human Services

Graduates of Lethbridge Polytechnic's Criminal Justice - Corrections Diploma are eligible to receive up to 60 credits towards Athabasca University's Bachelor of Professional Arts - Human Services. Students should consult Academic Advising at Athabasca University or visit their website for more information.

Athabasca University Bachelor of Professional Arts - Governance, Law, and Management Outgoing
September 2022 - August 2028

Bachelor of Professional Arts - Governance, Law, and Management

Graduates of Lethbridge Polytechnic's Criminal Justice - Corrections Diploma are eligible to receive up to 60 credits towards Athabasca University's Bachelor of Professional Arts - Governance, Law, and Management. Students should consult Academic Advising at Athabasca University or visit their website for more information.

Griffith University, Australia Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice Outgoing
July 2021 - June 2026

Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice

Graduates of Lethbridge Polytechnic's Criminal Justice - Corrections Diploma, with a minimum GPA of 65% are eligible for transfer credit towards Griffith University's Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice. Students will be provided an approved course completion pathway at time of offer of admission. Students should contact an Academic Advisor at Griffith University or visit their website for more information.

Lethbridge Polytechnic Criminal Justice - Bachelor of (Post-Diploma) Internal
Ongoing

Criminal Justice - Bachelor of (Post-Diploma)

Graduates of Lethbridge Polytechnic's Criminal Justice - Corrections Diploma, with a minimum GPA of 2.0, are eligible to continue directly into the Bachelor of Criminal Justice Post-Diploma Degree program. Contact Admissions (admissions@lethpolytech.ca) for more information on how to pursue this option.

Lethbridge Polytechnic Criminal Justice - Policing Internal
Ongoing

Criminal Justice - Policing

Dual Diploma Option
Lethbridge Polytechnic's Criminal Justice - Corrections and Criminal Justice - Policing diplomas share a common first year of courses. Graduates of the Corrections Diploma, with a minimum GPA of 2.00, are eligible to earn a second diploma in Policing with only two additional terms (one additional year) of study. 

Royal Roads University Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies Outgoing
July 2024 - June 2029

Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies

Graduates of Lethbridge Polytechnic's Criminal Justice - Corrections Diploma, with a GPA of B (3.00/4.33) or higher, are eligible for full block transfer into the third year of Royal Roads University's Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies. Students should consult Academic Advising at RRU or visit their website for further information. 

Practicums
Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Requirements

This program includes a required Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) placement. Lethbridge Polytechnic establishes the legal terms and conditions governing WIL participation.

Students must meet and maintain specific requirements set by the program, host organizations, and/or government regulations. These may include:

  • Health requirements (e.g., immunizations, screening tests)
  • Privacy and security requirements (e.g., Police Information Check, IT access)
  • Occupational Health and Safety requirements (e.g., CPR certification, Fire Safety, WHMIS, mask fit-testing)

An organization may suspend a student’s placement if the organization considers such action reasonably necessary in the best interests of the organization or its clients.

Security Clearance

Participation in WIL placements may require a Police Information Check or other security clearance, to the satisfaction of both Lethbridge Polytechnic and the host organization.

WIL Agreements

Organizations that host students for WIL placements must have a WIL agreement with Lethbridge Polytechnic. This agreement helps ensure expectations are clear and protects the interests of the student, the host organization, and the Polytechnic.

Workers’ Compensation Coverage

Students registered in and attending an academic course or program at Lethbridge Polytechnic and during WIL placements are considered workers of the Government of Alberta and are typically covered by Alberta Workers’ Compensation Board (WCB) on the Government of Alberta account. (https://www.wcb.ab.ca/assets/pdfs/workers/WFS_Student_coverage.pdf)

In some circumstances, WCB coverage may not apply—for example, for non-Alberta residents or non-Canadian citizens completing distance learning with a placement outside Alberta. Students in these situations should contact the program before applying for placement.  Alternative insurance coverage is available from Lethbridge Polytechnic for those situations.

Accessibility and Accommodations

Students who require accommodations should contact Accessibility Services at Lethbridge Polytechnic, preferably upon acceptance to the program and no later than one week prior to the start of the academic term. Students who fail to consult with Accessibility Services in a timely manner may affect placement opportunities and success in the WIL setting.

Accessibility Services may collaborate with WIL supervisors to determine appropriate accommodations that do not compromise client safety, essential placement requirements, or mandatory licensing processes.

Placement Locations and Scheduling

Placements may occur in Lethbridge, surrounding rural communities, or other approved locations, depending on site availability. Placements may include day, evening, and/or weekend schedules.

Students are responsible for travel to their assigned placement sites and any associated costs.

Employment and Professional Regulation

Completion of a WIL placement does not guarantee employment with the host organization.

Some professions are regulated by provincial or other governing bodies. These processes are outside the control of Lethbridge Polytechnic. Completion of a WIL placement and graduation from the program do not guarantee licensure or admission to a regulatory body. Students with concerns about licensing requirements should consult the relevant regulatory body.

Fitness to Practice

Students are responsible for ensuring they are mentally and physically prepared to participate safely in Work Integrated Learning (WIL) activities. By attending a WIL placement or activity, students are declaring their Fitness to Practice, as outlined in the Student Guide for Fitness to Practice, and their ability to engage in learning without compromising their own safety or the safety of others.

Courses
CourseTitleCredits
Year 1
Term I
CJP-1160Introduction to Criminal Justice System3
COM-1165Public Safety Communications/Interpersonal Relations3
ENG-1150Composition3
LAW-1177Procedural Law in Canada3
PSY-1160Introduction to Psychology3
 Credits15
Term II
CJP-1157Preliminary Response and Investigation3
CJP-1185Diverse Populations in Public Safety3
CJP-1188Applied English and Investigative Writing3
COR-1180Youth in the Justice System3
LAW-1178Criminal and Correctional Offences3
SOC-1160Introduction to Sociology3
 Credits18
Year 2
Term I
CJP-1159Ethics and Critical Thought3
CJP-2281Conflict Management3
CJP-2296Career Preparation for Public Safety3
COR-2253Correctional Assessment3
SOC-2255Complex Correctional Populations3
SOC-2290Addictions and Mental Health in Justice3
 Credits18
Term II
CJP-2278Criminology3
CJP-2287Strategies in Crisis Situations3
COR-2277Corrections Administration3
COR-2295Correctional Case Work and Practices3
Approved Elective3
Approved Elective3
 Credits18
 Total Credits69
Approved Electives

To fulfill elective requirements, choose one elective from List A and one elective from List B or two electives from List B.

List A - Specialized Electives
CourseTitleCredits
CJP-2280Introduction to Commercial Vehicle Enforcement3
CJP-2294Specialized Policing3
CJP-2295Traffic3
COR-2262Drugs in Corrections3
FWK-2280Field Work Practicum3
PED-1190Fitness & Lifestyles in Public Safety I3
List B - Breadth Electives
CourseTitleCredits
ANT-1195Cultural Anthropology3
ANT-2295Anthropology of Gender3
ARK-1165Introduction Into Archaeology3
BIO-1160Anatomy and Physiology I3
BIO-1162Microbiology3
BIO-1169Structural Human Anatomy3
BLK-1151Blackfoot Language I3
BLK-2251Blackfoot Language II3
BUS-1166Business Law3
BUS-1170Introduction to Management3
BUS-2278Industrial and Labour Relations3
ENG-1190Introduction to Language and Literature3
HUM-1150Logic3
HUM-1180Introduction to World Religions3
HUM-1190Popular Culture3
INS-1151Niitsitapiiysini3
INS-1155Introduction to Indigenous Studies3
PSC-1150Local Government3
PSC-1161Introduction to Politics3
PSC-1165Canadian Government3
PSY-1170Human Development Across the Lifespan3
PSY-1177Psychology of Aging3
PSY-1179Adolescent Development3
PSY-2253Child Psychopathology3
PSY-2260Psychopathology3
PSY-2270Introduction to Personality Theory3
PSY-2275Introduction to Forensic Psychology3
PSY-2280Social Psychology3
PSY-2290Brain and Behaviour3
SOC-1167Sociology of Aging3
SOC-2260Social Problems3
SPN-1150Introductory Spanish3
SPN-1151Introductory Spanish II3
VXR-1150Introduction to Immersive Technology3
View course timetables
Tuition and Fees

Tuition costs are estimates for the 2025/2026 year.

Title Tuition Fees Books/Supplies
Year 1
$5,695.00
$2,278.00
$1,300.00
Year 2
$5,192.00
$2,115.00
$900.00

View detailed program cost estimates

International Students

Title Tuition Fees Books/Supplies
Year 1
$20,095.00
$2,278.00
$1,300.00
Year 2
$19,241.00
$2,115.00
$900.00

Notes

Costs for supplies may vary considerably depending on what students already have or where they purchased their supplies; cost provided is on the moderately high end.

Students will be charged a medical/dental benefit fee unless they opt out by demonstrating alternative coverage prior to the end of the first week of class.

Budget Wizard

Our Budget Wizard is a free self-service tool that can help you make sense of your finances and the cost of your education. Give it a try!

Budget Wizard

Delivery Formats

The Criminal Justice - Corrections program is available through on-campus delivery, which may include some blended delivery components, as well as a fully online delivery.

Blended

This program includes both face-to-face/on-campus and online delivery in both synchronous (learning occurs in real-time on a set schedule) and asynchronous (learning does not occur at the same time or same place) formats.

On Campus

This program is delivered in a face-to-face format on the main Lethbridge Polytechnic campus. Lectures, labs and hands-on training opportunities will all take place on campus in Lethbridge.

Online – Asynchronous

This program is offered in an online asynchronous format meaning learning does not occur at the same time or same place. Instructors provide materials for online completion, including online readings, recorded lectures or presentations, posted lecture notes, video content, assignments and exams. Students access course materials within a flexible timeframe prescribed by the instructor.

Scholarships

With just one online application, you can apply for all the Lethbridge Polytechnic awards and scholarships - visit our Awards and Scholarships page for more information.

Need more information?

CJP.COR.DIP