Law Enforcement Studies (LESD)

We created the Law Enforcement Studies Diploma (LESD) to give you a hands-on, academic education. This combination of theory and application helps graduates stand out in a competitive recruitment process for jobs such as:

• Police constables

• Bylaw officers

• Deputy sheriffs

• Correctional officers

• Investigators

• Probation officers

• Border services officers

Generally, graduates with a law enforcement and public safety career may have received on-the-job training to serve various law enforcement and security roles. They are also likely to hold a bachelor’s degree (such as the Bachelor of Law Enforcement Studies).

The program teaches 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
• Governance

What You Need to Graduate

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

Program Format

Cohort-Based Program

This full-time program combines on-campus courses with some virtual content. The on-campus courses take place at our New Westminster campus.

It is a small, cohort-based program. Students move through the two-year program as a group. We offer classes in the fall and winter semesters. 

Students follow an assigned schedule and attend five, three-hour classes per week. 

Upcoming Intakes & Application Deadlines

Intakes

Two intakes per year: September and January

Application Deadlines

• January 2026 start: August 13, 2025
• September 2026 start: March 11, 2026

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

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.