Course details

Summary

For those wanting a career change into the criminal justice fields, who are only available to study part-time, or not wanting to study the full Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree, this certificate is the best option for you.

The Certificate in Criminal Justice (CertCJ) is also a professionally relevant qualification for those already employed within the sector who wish to enhance their current skills and knowledge.

Qualification structure and duration

The Certificate of Criminal Justice comprises four courses (a minimum of 60 points) at 100-level.

It can be completed in a minimum of one semester full-time, or up to a maximum of four years part-time.

Credit from your completed courses can be transferred to the Bachelor of Criminal Justice, provided you have not graduated with the certificate beforehand.

The certificate is made up of the following courses:

CRJU 101 Introduction to Criminal Justice; and
a further 45 points from any 100-level courses from the Bachelor of Criminal Justice (except for LAWS 101).

Further study

The CertCJ is a good pathway into the full Bachelor of Criminal Justice degree.

Career opportunities

Graduates will be equipped with a unique qualification that will prepare them for a career in the criminal justice fields, in particular roles within the Police, Ministry of Justice and Department of Corrections. The certificate is also relevant for work in other areas of government including prisons, probation and parole; criminal justice policy, forensics, public and private investigation and security; and social work.

Entry criteria

Admission to UC with University Entrance, or equivalent, is required to enrol for a Certificate in Criminal Justice (CertCJ). Domestic applicants over 20 who do not hold University Entrance, or equivalent, may gain admission by providing evidence of their ability to complete tertiary study successfully. Applicants must have completed New Zealand University Entrance through NCEA; or Cambridge International Examinations (CIE); or International Baccalaureate Diploma (IB) or any other equivalent overseas qualification.

Other English language requirements: TOEFL PBT with a minimum score of 550 and TWE with a minimum score of 4.5; CCEL EAP Level 2 with a minimum C+ grade; CAE or CPE minimum score of 169 with at least 162 in reading, writing, listening and speaking; Pearson Test of English (Academic) - PTE with an overall score of 57 and no PTE communicative skills score below 50.