About
This program allows you to earn a Certificate of Proficiency, a qualification that recognizes a focus of study in criminology and addictions that will allow you to explore greater opportunities in corrections, public safety, policing, court services, advocacy, addictions services and other areas in the criminal or social justice system.
- Certificate program
- Full or part-time program
- You can enter this program directly from high school
- You can begin this program off-campus
What you will learn
You will study crime and criminological theories, and will be introduced to core sociological concepts. You will learn about addictions, with a specific focus on problematic alcohol and illicit drug use and basic concepts and debates concerning causes, consequences and interventions. You will study the correctional system and examine key positions and principles involved in custody, punishment and rehabilitation.
SOC 212: Introduction to Criminology
An introduction to the study of crime and criminological theories. In addition to developing an understanding of criminological theories, students examine the rich and diverse nature of Canadian criminological research. Specific topics may include: women and crime; crime prevention; restorative justice; youth justice; the overrepresentation of Indigenous peoples in the criminal justice system; and penology.
SOC 326: Criminology and Addictions Practicum
An applied course that provides students with professional experience and the opportunity to critique criminal and social justice processing, and addictions services. Students are placed in a 6-week work program after consultation with the program coordinator.
SOC 347: Studies in Addictions
An introduction to the study of addictions, with a specific focus on problematic alcohol and illicit drug use. It introduces students to basic concepts and debates in the addictions field concerning causes, consequences and interventions. Each is examined from four standpoints: the user, society/culture, service providers, and decision/policy makers. Students are invited to question how we know what we know, with an emphasis on the Canadian context. The addictions field is fraught with controversies. This course is designed to assist students with integrating their existing and acquired knowledge and applying it to current debates in a sociologically informed, public health contextualized, and understanding manner.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
Practicum experience
You will take one six-week (or equivalent) practicum course that allow you to work in justice organizations for course credit. The justice organizations may include community programs, restorative justice and social justice initiatives, non-profit agencies and/or penal institutions.
Uniqueness
There are currently no programs offered in the province of Saskatchewan that focus on criminology and addictions and although independently each field has achieved popularity nationally, very few Canadian universities combine these two areas of study.
Careers
Some career opportunities include:
- parole/probation officer
- corrections officer
- youth outreach worker
- criminal investigator
- court worker
- staff at healing lodges
- police officer
- management
- positions dealing with social justice
Tuition estimates
| Canadian students | International students | |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $775.50 per 3 credit unit class | $3,753.30 per 3 credit unit class |
| Student fees | $1,308.24 per year | $1,308.24 per year |
Tuition will vary depending on the type and number of classes you take in a year. This estimate reflects a typical amount you could expect to pay per class (2025-2026 Canadian dollar rates).
Student fees are used to fund specific student benefits, including health, vision and dental coverage, a bus pass, recreational programs and fitness centre access. This estimate reflects the price you would pay if you are a full-time student.
The cost of books and supplies varies widely depending on the courses you choose. It is recommended that you budget between $1,500-$2,500 for this program.
Program options
The Certificate in Criminology and Addictions is offered by the University of Saskatchewan's College of Arts and Science. You may earn the certificate on its own, concurrently with a degree, or after having already received a degree from here or another institution.
If you are already enrolled at USask, consult your academic advisor regarding enrolling in this program.
The Course and Program Catalogue has the complete and official listing of required classes and their descriptions for this program.
International students:
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The College of Arts and Science strongly recommends that international students do not enrol in a certificate program alone, as course offerings per term and program length may not be sufficient to maintain eligibility for a study permit, on/off-campus work permit, or post-graduation work permit when taken as a stand-alone program.
If you are interested in pursuing a certificate program, plan to enrol in your certificate of interest only alongside a degree. Learn more by visiting the International Student Guide and connect with an academic advisor if you are interested in adding a certificate to your degree program after you become a student!
- International Student Guide
- Academic advising
Admission requirements and deadlines
You must be admitted into the USask College of Arts and Science and be in at least the second year of your studies and/or have equivalent life or employment experience before you can be considered for the CCAP.
The application deadline is January 15 of each calendar year.
Ready to apply?
If you are a current USask student, consult your academic advisor about enrolling in this program.
To apply to this program as a new student, create an admissions account and apply for admission to any undergraduate program in the College of Arts and Science. When you are ready to submit your application, you will be assessed a non-refundable application fee of $120 CAD. After you are admitted, declare your plans to the department.
