Law Enforcement Studies

The goal of the program is to provide the theoretical background, applied skills and specialized knowledge required to become a superior candidate in the law enforcement recruiting process and increase a graduate's chances of success in a wide range of investigation and law enforcement careers.

Program strengths 

It has been designed to provide a unique experience for students looking for an applied, academic education that serves as a foundation for becoming a superior candidate in the highly competitive recruitment environment.

Graduates who have gone on to a career in law enforcement and public safety include those that have either continued their education to complete a bachelor’s degree (such as the Bachelor of Law Enforcement Studies) or have been hired and received further on-the-job training to serve various law enforcement and security roles.

These include jobs as police constables, bylaw officers, deputy sheriffs, correctional officers, investigators, probation officers, border services officers, and other peace officer and security roles across Canada.

The program teaches student theory, applied skills and specialized knowledge in law enforcement.  
 

Subjects

• Criminology
• The Canadian justice system
• Administrative and civil law
• Criminal law
• Investigation skills and procedures
• Computer investigation skills
• Law enforcement communication skills
• Youth Justice
• Applied law enforcement skills (e.g. emergency vehicle operations, fitness, firearms safety, surveillance, evidence collection and preservation, crisis intervention, use of force, arrest and control techniques)
• Research skills

Transferable skills

The program provides foundations in essential liberal studies skills including academic writing, communication skills, critical reading and writing, applied ethics, conflict resolution, diversity issues in law enforcement, Indigenous justice and governance.

What You Need to Graduate

Students must successfully complete all 60 credits (20 courses) of the program at a rate of five courses per semester.

Program Format

This program is delivered at the New Westminster campus using a cohort model.  

Please note that due to COVID-19 restrictions, all courses in the program are temporarily being delivered in an alternative delivery format. Classes are conducted online in a live, synchronous manner that allows students to interact, in real-time, with instructors and classmates. 

You will be assigned to a group of 26-28 students and will progress through all your classes and graduate together. The cohort model encourages teamwork and academic success.

With the cohort model, you are assigned classes and timetables that are designed specifically for your cohort. This ensures that you will receive all the classes you need to graduate from the program in two years.

Upcoming intakes

There are two intakes each year in September and January.

Tuition

Tuition is $512.67 per course. 
(Total cost for the program is approximately $12,000). 

Additional Fees 

Learner Services Fee $17.81 per course
Non-refundable application fee $75
Year 1: Applied Law Enforcement I driver training fee $220.81
Textbooks & equipment approximately $800
Campus student fees (dependent on location)

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.

application deadlines

January start - August 7
September start - March 12

Complete applications must be received no later than the dates posted above.

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 - 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. 

Download the LESD Program Application Guide.

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. 
• Two letters of reference from non-family members*
• Completion of a Criminal Record Check showing no convictions for any violent criminal offence, and no outstanding criminal charges

Note
* Download the LESD Confidential Letter of Reference Form and follow the directions on the form. 

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.

Accommodation for disabled applicants will be made in accordance with 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 * showing no convictions for any violent criminal offense that would cause you to have a firearms prohibition, and no outstanding criminal charges. Please visit your local police agency for your Criminal Record Check.
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. Two letters of reference from non-family members. Download the LESD Confidential Letter of Reference Form and follow the directions on the form.
7. 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.

For more information, contact Student Services or the Financial Aid & Student Awards Advisor.

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: Market research suggests that job applicants face a reasonable level of competition for employment in the broad field of law enforcement. Our graduates are well prepared and qualified to seek employment in a wide range of law enforcement, regulatory and compliance fields. Those who pursue a law enforcement career are making a difference in a wide range of 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 all complete additional mandated training. Employers in other investigation, law enforcement, and regulatory agencies may have extra entry or qualification and training requirements. Nevertheless, we believe that completing this program can become one of the preferred qualifications for such employment.