Justice & Policing
A course by
University of Canterbury
A unique, interdisciplinary degree providing knowledge and skills for roles in the criminal justice sector, covering law, criminology, psychology, sociology, and human services, and preparing graduates for impactful careers in justice, law enforcement, corrections, and related fields.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Ilam Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 3 years

Gain foundational knowledge of the structures, policies, and processes that make up New Zealand’s justice system, including governance, enforcement, rehabilitation, and justice policy development.

Integrate concepts from law, criminology, psychology, sociology, and human services to understand and address complex justice issues.

The Bachelor of Criminal Justice (BCJ) at the University of Canterbury is Aotearoa New Zealand’s only degree of its kind, offering an interdisciplinary foundation in criminal justice, criminology, law, psychology, and human services. The BCJ emphasizes both theoretical and practical aspects of crime, justice systems, and preventive strategies. Students explore the causes of crime, the functioning of justice institutions, and approaches to effective crime prevention and rehabilitation. The degree offers a wide selection of electives, opportunities for double degrees, and strong connections to the justice sector, setting graduates up for a diverse range of justice-related careers.
What you need to know first
University Entrance (UE) or equivalent secondary school qualification

Justice sector
Law enforcement
Corrections
Community and social services
Legal services

Law enforcement (NZ Police, border control)
Justice & Policing
A course by
University of Canterbury
A unique, interdisciplinary degree providing knowledge and skills for roles in the criminal justice sector, covering law, criminology, psychology, sociology, and human services, and preparing graduates for impactful careers in justice, law enforcement, corrections, and related fields.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
Ilam Campus, Christchurch
It will take a total of 3 years

Gain foundational knowledge of the structures, policies, and processes that make up New Zealand’s justice system, including governance, enforcement, rehabilitation, and justice policy development.

Integrate concepts from law, criminology, psychology, sociology, and human services to understand and address complex justice issues.

The Bachelor of Criminal Justice (BCJ) at the University of Canterbury is Aotearoa New Zealand’s only degree of its kind, offering an interdisciplinary foundation in criminal justice, criminology, law, psychology, and human services. The BCJ emphasizes both theoretical and practical aspects of crime, justice systems, and preventive strategies. Students explore the causes of crime, the functioning of justice institutions, and approaches to effective crime prevention and rehabilitation. The degree offers a wide selection of electives, opportunities for double degrees, and strong connections to the justice sector, setting graduates up for a diverse range of justice-related careers.
What you need to know first
University Entrance (UE) or equivalent secondary school qualification

Justice sector
Law enforcement
Corrections
Community and social services
Legal services

Law enforcement (NZ Police, border control)
Prepare for applied justice, law enforcement, and community roles with relevant knowledge in policing, corrections, offender rehabilitation, victim advocacy, and security.
Corrections (Department of Corrections)
Offender rehabilitation and reintegration services
Criminal law practice
Victim advocacy roles
Security and intelligence
Restorative justice services
Tech or environmental agencies with justice focus
Prepare for applied justice, law enforcement, and community roles with relevant knowledge in policing, corrections, offender rehabilitation, victim advocacy, and security.
Corrections (Department of Corrections)
Offender rehabilitation and reintegration services
Criminal law practice
Victim advocacy roles
Security and intelligence
Restorative justice services
Tech or environmental agencies with justice focus