Criminal Psychology and Behaviour
Overview
The courses in this program will enhance the knowledge of individuals who work or volunteer in a corrections program, law enforcement, women's shelters, youth at risk, or to those individuals who have a special interest in criminal psychology and behaviour. The program explores why individuals become criminals, as well as why individuals are attracted to those with deviant behaviours. Students will also explore factors that research suggest motivate criminal behaviour.
- Examine the psychological theories which can be contributed to criminal behaviour
- Understand how social, psychological and economic factors influence criminal behaviour and co-dependency
- Analyze and explain the use forensic and correctional psychology and preventions in policing and the Canadian court system
- Compare the various therapies used to engage and treat individuals
Admission & Registration
Recommended Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
Students who struggle with communication or whose first language is not English are encouraged to explore upgrading options available through our Applied Communications Centre. - Computer Skills (e.g. word processing, data management, internet access)
Students should be familiar with computers, word processing, and email based systems prior to considering these courses. To upgrade computer skills, consider a CE introductory 'Computer Basics' course or a Learning Support Centre workshop before applying.
You do not need to apply to begin this program. Start by ensuring you meet the admission requirements listed above and then register for the courses listed in the Program of Studies when they are offered. Some courses have prerequisites, so please check the Program of Studies for details. Find out how to register for a course.
Program of Studies
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Click on the course number below to check current availability and for registration information. |
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Mandatory Courses |
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| Course Number | Course Name | Course Description | Hours | Delivery |
| PSYC10002 | Criminal Psychology-Psychopathic Minds | Explore the psychopathic mind and examine how and why some individuals become criminals. Study what is known about serial killers, stalkers, rapists and criminals and current techniques used in criminal profiling and questioning. | 45 | Online |
| PSYC10003 | Criminal Psychology 2 - Criminal Minds | Further explore issues discussed in Criminal Psychology Psychopathic Minds and examine psychological models related to criminology. | 45 | Online |
| PSYC10006 | Domestic and Workplace Violence | Examine conflict resolution strategies and where they work to reduce incidents of violent behaviour such as abusive relationships, confrontation in the workplace and violence in the schools. | 45 | Online |
| PSYC10008 | Co-Dependency as an Addiction | Examine the personalities of abusers and those who are abused and how individuals with complimentary personality disorders unite and form bonds. Object Relations Theory and how women and men are unconsciously drawn to abusive partners because of personality disorders caused by childhood abuse or neglect will be the focal point. | 45 | Online |
| SSCI10006 | Cults and Terrorism | Examine conformity issues surrounding religious fundamentalism, sects, cults, and terrorist groups. Explore reasons people join, and why they may have difficulty leaving, society's role in supporting cultic groups and strategies for protecting individuals and vulnerable populations. | 45 | Online |
| SSCI10008 | Sexual Violence | Study sexual violence in the context of male toward female, female toward male, and incest and child abuse. Examine the reasons for sexually deviant behaviours and the latest strategies for treating victims and perpetrators. | 45 | Online |
Frequently Asked Questions
Opportunities
Upon completion of the program individuals may find employment opportunities with policing in victim support and group homes. This program enhances the knowledge and skill set of individuals who work or want to work within human service, social work or legal and justice settings where an understanding in criminals behaviour would be an asset. This program is designed for professionals who want to truly effect change and advance their career. It will also benefit those looking to enter one of these careers to gain insight into the people they hope to help in the future.