Criminology Courses in Canada: Top Universities, Fees, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

Criminology courses in Canada is a highly feasible option for international students, with the correct blend of learning, international exposure, and knowledge. With some top Canadian universities for criminology courses at the world level, the students get to experience the latest research, improved infrastructure, fully funded scholarships, and industry-friendly learning. 

The international students enjoy the multicultural environment, secure campuses, internships and post-graduate working options in Canada. Criminology courses provide training in areas such as forensic criminology, cybercrime, and corrections and prepares the person for senior positions in police, policy formation, and other social departments. 

Financial planning is also crucial. Criminology courses tuition in Canada varies with institutions, and living costs vary by place. But through proper budgeting and the existence of grants and scholarships, students can find balance between affordability, quality education and good career opportunities. 

An approximate fee structure is given below: 

• Diploma / Undergraduate: CAD 15,000 - 25,000 per year (₹9L - 15L) 
• Masters: CAD 18,000 - 32,000 per year (₹11L - 20L) 
• PhD: CAD 7,000 - 18,000 per annum (₹4.2L - 11L) 
• Cost of Living: CAD 12,000 - 15,000 per year (₹7.3L - 9L) 

The students are eligible for Canada's Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for a maximum of 3 years, which allows them to acquire work experience as well as be eligible for permanent residence.  

 Key Highlights: Criminology Courses in Canada 

Top Universities Offering Criminology Courses in Canada 

Canada's research-led institutions are always among the world's top in sociology and criminology. Research-led degree programs are policy-directed, and frequently incorporate a placement in practice with justice agencies. 

Following are the top Canadian universities providing Criminology degrees, their QS 2026 ranking, most popular programs, and their tuition fees: 

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and may vary depending on the program and exchange rates. 

Top Criminology Courses in Canada 

Canadian criminology is offered at diploma, undergraduate, master's, and Ph.D. levels. The students also have the option of beginning with foundation diplomas or concentrating on advanced policymaking and research careers. Each level is based on duration, specialization, and career opportunities, making Canadian criminology studies competitive internationally. 

Diploma Criminology Courses in Canada 

• Duration: 1-2 years 
• Institutions: Community colleges such as Seneca, Centennial, and Humber 
• Focus Areas: Criminology foundations, policing, corrections, youth justice 
• Best Suited For: Students seeking accelerated entry into law enforcement, corrections, and social service careers 
• Average Tuition Fees: CAD 10,000 - 18,000/year (₹6L - 11L) 

Undergraduate Criminology Degrees in Canada 

• Duration: 3-4 years 
• Degree Options: 
• BA Criminology: Emphasis on social justice, law, and community issues 
• BSc Criminology/Criminal Justice: Emphasis on data analysis, forensics, and applied criminology 
• Highlights: Co-ops, internships, and community projects 
• Average Tuition Fees: CAD 15,000 - 25,000/year (₹9L - 15L) 

Master's in Criminology Courses in Canada 

• Duration: 1-2 years full-time 
• Program Types: Thesis-based and research-stream; limited course-based programs offered 
• Top Universities: University of Toronto, Simon Fraser University, Carleton University 
• Popular Specializations: 
• Forensic Criminology 
• Policing & Law Enforcement 
• Youth Justice 
• Cybercrime & Technology-Related Crime 
• Corrections & Rehabilitation 
• Criminal Justice Policy 
• Average Tuition Fees: CAD 18,000 - 32,000/year (₹11L - 20L) 

Doctoral Criminology Programs in Canada (PhD) 

• Duration: 4-6 years 
• PhD in Criminology: Research-stream; dissertation, policy research, publications 
• Focus: Criminal justice reform, social policy, forensic criminology research 
• Licensing: Mandatory for some high-level teaching or research positions in Canada  
• Average Tuition Fee: CAD 7,000 - 18,000/year (₹4.2L - 11L) 

Course Curriculum of Criminology Courses in Canada 

Criminology courses combine practice training, theory, research skills, and internships. At this level, students specialize in criminal law, justice systems, forensic procedures, and rehabilitation. 

This is a summary of the Criminology course curriculum in the Canada: 

Admission Process for Criminology Courses in Canada 

The process for applying to Canadian universities is easy but needs planning. The applications are received by the universities online. Just follow these step-by-step instructions: 

Step 1: Research & Shortlist Universities 

• Look at university websites for deadlines, program requirements, and application fees. 

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents 

• Academic transcripts (official sealed transcripts). 
• English language test scores (IELTS/TOEFL). 
• GRE scores (if the university requires them). 
• Statement of Purpose (SOP). 
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs). 
• Resume/CV. 

Step 3: Submit Application 

• Complete the university's online application form. 
• Pay the application fee (typically CAD 100-150). 
• Upload documents prior to deadlines. 

Step 4: Attend Interviews (if necessary) 

• Certain Criminology programs can involve an online interview for determining suitability. 

Step 5: Receive Offer Letter 

• If accepted, a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from the university will be issued. 

Step 6: Apply for Canadian Study Permit 

• Using your LOA, submit a study permit (student visa) application from the Government of Canada website. 
• Submit proof of funding, medical test, and biometrics. 

Tip: Apply at least 8-10 months in advance since Criminology courses have great competition with few seats. 

Academic Requirements for Criminology in Canada 

Minimum academic requirements to pursue a Criminology Courses in Canada as an international student are usually: 

• Bachelor's degree in Criminology (or closely related discipline) from an accredited university. 
• GPA: At least 3.0/4.0 (B average) or equivalent. 
• English Language Proficiency: Overall IELTS 6.5-7.0, or TOEFL 90-100. 
• GRE: Some universities require GRE (basically for research-based MSc programs). 
• Additional Requirements: Statement of Purpose (SOP), Curriculum Vitae (CV), and Letters of Recommendation (2-3). 
• Optional / Helpful: Internship, research experience, or volunteer work in Criminology-related environments. 

These requirements give students a solid academic foundation for challenging coursework, research studies, and practical training in Canadian Criminology programs. 

Documents Required for Criminology in Canada 

When applying for Criminology Courses degrees in Canada, have the following documents prepared: 

• Bachelor's degree transcripts and certificate. 
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) of any corresponding research, internship, or volunteer work. 
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) of academic aspirations and research areas of interest. 
• Letters of Recommendation (2-3) from professors or professional supervisors. 
• GRE scorecard (if applicable by the university). 
• IELTS/TOEFL scorecard (for international students). 
• Research proposal (in the event of thesis-based MSc programs). 
• Proof of capability to finance tuition charges and living expenses. 
• Copy of passport. 
• Completed university application form. 

Visa Requirements for Criminology Courses in Canada 

After receiving the letter of admission, international students need to apply for a Canadian Study Permit. 

Documents Needed 

• Valid passport. 
• Letter of Acceptance from a Canadian university. 
• Evidence of having sufficient funds to cover tuition and living costs (bank statements, scholarship, or sponsorship letters). 
• English language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL). 
• Passport photos. 
• Filled study permit application form. 
• Immigration medical checkup (if needed). 

Visa Process 

• Apply online or by paper form on the Government of Canada website. 
• Pay study permit application fee (CAD 150 or about). 
• Provide biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC). 
• Take interview if required. 
• Wait for processing (typically 4-8 weeks, depending on countries). 

By following these steps and having documents organized, students enjoy hassle-free admission and visa and can happily concentrate on Criminology study and training in Canada. 

Cost of Studying Criminology Courses in Canada 

Criminology Courses in Canada are very popular because of best-class universities, world-class research opportunities, and career prospects in law enforcement, justice, and policy. The fee varies according to the course type (BA, MA, MSc, PhD) and the class of university, i.e., CAD 18,000 - 32,000 per year (₹11.4L - 20.3L approx.). 

A few of the top Canadian universities with Criminology Courses and their corresponding tuition fees are listed below: 

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and may vary depending on the program and exchange rates. 

Cost of Living in Canada 

In addition to tuition, international students will also need to cater to living expenses in Canada such as rent, food, bills, transport, and leisure. The average monthly expense in Canada is CAD 1,000 - 1,200 (₹63,600 - 76,300) depending on the lifestyle and city. 

Here are the average monthly expenses in Canada:  

Note: Tuition is an estimate and could vary with program, exchange rates, and course type (course-based or thesis-based). 

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Criminology Courses in Canada 

Criminology study in Canada is costly, but foreign students like Indian students can avail themselves of scholarships, assistantships, and grants. They pay for tuition fees, living expenses, or both, thus decreasing overall costs for studying in Canada. 

Scholarships are given by the Government of Canada, universities, and organizations that are non-profit. Most criminology faculties also offer research or teaching assistantships in which students get practical experience and stipends or waiver of tuition fees. 

Some of the most notable scholarships for Canadian Criminology students are: 

Many scholarships in Canada cover not just tuition but also living expenses, making Criminology programs more affordable for international students. 

Top Jobs after Criminology Courses in Canada 

Graduates of Canadian criminology are employed by the government, police force, NGOs, research centers, corrections department, and policy centers. Universities also offer professional services such as internships, networking, and placement services to help students transition into the workforce. 

Some of the most notable job titles and their respective salary ranges are given below: 

Source: Glassdoor  

Top Recruiters for Criminology Courses in Canada 

Canadian criminology graduates work for government institutions, police forces, NGOs, international policy think-tanks, and research institutes. Universities also provide formal career advisory services, placements, and internships. 

Some of the key employers of Canadian criminology graduates include: