Certificate in Criminal Justice

Justice & Policing

A course by

UC Online

The Certificate in Criminal Justice is an online undergraduate programme designed to provide learners with comprehensive knowledge of the criminal justice system in Aotearoa New Zealand. It is suited for those aiming to start or advance a career in the justice sector and covers law enforcement, legal issues, and the social context of justice in New Zealand.

NZ$3,577

inc GST

Enquire about international pricing


This course starts anytime

NZQA Level 5 Certification (60 Credits)

Study Level

Advanced

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Online study

Flexible online learning from anywhere

It will take a total of 6 months

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Evaluate the impact of criminal justice policies on Māori and Pasifika

Assess how criminal justice practices lead to the overrepresentation of Māori and Pasifika in the system and describe strategies for change.

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Critically analyse crime and criminal behaviour

Understand and analyse the social, economic, and cultural factors behind criminal behaviour.

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Apply criminological theory

Demonstrate understanding and application of criminological theories in the context of New Zealand's justice system.

What You're Signing Up For

This unique and professionally relevant qualification offers in-depth study of the criminal justice system, law enforcement agencies, and the legal frameworks within Aotearoa New Zealand. It emphasises cultural, historical, and social influences on the justice system, including a dedicated focus on Te Tiriti o Waitangi, restorative justice, criminal behaviour psychology, and ethical philosophy. Delivered fully online, the certificate is designed for flexibility to suit both new students and those seeking professional advancement in police, corrections, or related fields.

Course Content

  • Introduction to the criminal justice system and its institutions
  • Law enforcement and crime prevention procedures
  • Legal issues in Aotearoa New Zealand
  • History of crime and justice in New Zealand
  • Ethics, politics, and justice—moral and political philosophy
  • Restorative justice principles
  • Psychology and human behaviour in criminal justice
  • Impact of Te Tiriti o Waitangi / Treaty of Waitangi and colonisation
  • Social, economic, and cultural factors relating to criminal justice

What you need to know first

University Entrance (or equivalent)

Applicants aged 20+ without University Entrance may be eligible via alternate entry

English language requirements for non-native speakers

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What sort of industry will this job lead to

  • Justice

  • Law Enforcement

  • Corrections

  • Government

  • Social Services

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Future employment opportunities might be

  • Police officer

  • Justice sector roles

  • Prison, probation and parole officer

  • Criminal justice policy roles

  • Forensics

  • Public and private investigation

  • Security roles

  • Social work