Law Enforcement Studies (LESD)

If you’ve recently graduated high school and feel called to serve your community, the Law Enforcement Studies Diploma (LESD) program might be your next step. Whether you’re curious about policing, community safety, or public service, this program builds a strong foundation through real-world experience and academic knowledge.

LESD prepares students for a wide range of careers, including:

• Police Officer

• Correctional Officer

• Youth Worker

• Sheriff Lawyer

• Dispatcher Security Professional

• Outreach Worker

• Probation Officer

Graduates of this two-year diploma can continue their education with JIBC’s Bachelor of Law Enforcement Studies (BLES) — a direct pathway to completing a degree in the same field.

This criminology-based diploma covers core topics like:

• Criminology

• Canadian Criminal Justice

• Criminal Law

• Academic Writing & Research Methods

• Critical Reading & Thinking

You’ll also take courses in:

• Conflict Resolution

• Ethics in Public Safety

• Indigenous perspectives: Reconciling Colonial Differences, Contemporary Issues in Law Enforcement, and Youth Justice

What makes LESD different is our focus on applied learning:

• Computer Investigations: Learn to navigate digital safety and conduct basic online investigations.

• Applied Law I & II: Practice arrest and control techniques, operate emergency vehicles, and complete fitness assessments—skills essential for law enforcement careers.

Program Format

• Full-time, In-Person Learning at our New Westminster campus

• Cohort Model: You’ll move through the program with the same small group of classmates, building community and support

• Schedule: 5 courses per semester, each class meets once a week for 3 hours

• Semesters Offered: Fall (September–December) and Winter (January–April)

Program Requirements

To graduate, students must complete:

• 60 credits (20 courses) over four semesters

• A Driver Training Fee is required in Semester 2 to cover emergency vehicle training

Upcoming Intakes & Deadlines

• January 2026 intake: Apply by August 13, 2025

• September 2026 intake: Apply by March 11, 2026

All application materials must be submitted before the deadline.

Tuition

Domestic Tuition is $566.00 per course (as of April 1, 2025).

International student tuition is approx. $18,000 per year.

Additional Fees

• Learner Services Fee $19.56 per course
• Non-refundable application fee $75
• Year 1: Applied Law Enforcement I driver training fee $239
• Textbooks and equipment approximately $300
• Applicable Student Union and health insurance fees can be found at jisu.ca. 

Textbooks & Supplies

Course manuals are supplied when you attend class. If additional books or other materials are required, you will be advised prior to the start of the semester.

Step One - Apply to the Program

Check the program application deadline date.

Apply by registering online at EducationPlannerBC and completing the online program application form.

Step Two - Download the LESD Program Application Guide

Step Three - Submit Supporting Documents

Prepare and submit supporting documentation along with payment in person, by mail or email to be received by the application deadline. 

Note
The LESD diploma is a competitive entry program and will make all admissions decisions based on the merit of the application. This includes a competitive GPA combined with an assessment of the required courses and supplemental documents. 

Only complete applications will be considered. 

Admission Requirements

• Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident status (or a valid Study Permit for international students)
• High school graduate or equivalent (Official Transcript required)
• Grade 12 English with a minimum grade of C (or equivalent)
• An essay of 250 words outlining the reasons why the applicant wishes to be a student in the Law Enforcement Studies Diploma program submitted with the application.
• Completion of a Criminal Record Check.
  • A vulnerable sector check and fingerprinting is not required.
  • Only an original hard copy document from a local RCMP or Municipal Police Department is accepted. Online verified, web-based Criminal Record Checks of any kind are not accepted.
  • A scanned copy may accompany the application documentation; however, the original document must be provided to the JIBC Admissions Office in-person, or by letter mail.

English Requirements for International Students

Applicants in Grade 12 can submit their interim transcript as part of their application until they receive their final high school transcript.

Applicants must submit any/all previous post-secondary transcripts.

An in-person interview and assessment to determine suitability may be required. Related work experience and/or study will enhance your application.

Accommodations for disabled applicants will be made following the BC Human Rights Legislation.

Required Documents

1. Proof of high school graduation with a minimum grade of a C in English 12 or equivalent. Applicants in Grade 12 can submit their interim transcript as part of their application until they receive their final high school transcript.
2. Applicants must submit any/all previous post-secondary transcripts. Official sealed transcripts are required.
3. Completion of a Criminal Record Check.
   • A vulnerable sector check and fingerprinting is not required.
   • Only an original hard copy document from a local RCMP or Municipal Police Department is accepted. Online verified, web-based Criminal Record Checks of any kind are not accepted.
   • A scanned copy may accompany the application documentation; however, the original document must be provided to the JIBC Admissions Office in-person, or by letter mail.
4. If English is not your first language or for International Applicants, English Requirements for International Students.
5. A 250-word essay outlining the reasons why the student wishes to be a student in the Law Enforcement Studies Diploma program.
6. Documentation confirming Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident status, or a valid Study Permit for international students.

Financial Aid and Awards

Candidates for this program may be eligible for JIBC awards and bursaries including the JIBC General Student Bursary. All students are encouraged to apply.

Contact Student Services or the Financial Aid & Student Awards Advisor for more information.

International Applicants

International applicants are encouraged to visit the International Studies page or contact JIBC's Office of International Affairs.

Q: Why is a criminal record check required for my application?

A: There are a few reasons for this. Some of the course content may be sensitive or privileged.

Keep in mind, students usually require a clear criminal record before employment in any law enforcement or regulatory discipline. Your local police agency can provide this for you.

Q: What are the employment opportunities for graduates?

A: Our graduates are prepared and qualified to seek employment in various law enforcement, regulatory, and compliance fields. Many are making a difference in various organizations, agencies, and departments.

Completion of the program does not guarantee entry into a law enforcement profession. 

Border Services officers, police officers, correctional officers, probation officers, deputy sheriffs, and security professionals must complete additional training.

Employers in other investigation, law enforcement, and regulatory agencies may have extra entry or qualification and training requirements. Even so, completing this program can become one of the preferred qualifications for such employment. 

Why is a Criminal Record Check required?
Because you'll engage with community agencies and explore public safety careers, a clear record helps expand your opportunities.