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Correctional Studies


Location(s):  Prince Albert   

Correctional Studies is a diploma program. It provides the knowledge and skill development needed for entry level positions in correctional institutions and a number of corollary justice agencies.

Our hands-on approach provides you with a rich combination of theory and practical applications. You will receive a strong foundation in reintegration and security to assist in the management of a wide variety of offender populations. Our curriculum, combined with highly trained instructors who each have background experience in the justice systems, will help you learn the professional skills needed for success in the criminal justice field.

The program is learner focused and delivered in partnership with provincial and federal correctional agencies.

Your studies will focus on:

  • strong interpersonal communication skills

  • working knowledge of the criminal justice system

  • understanding and dealing with deviant behaviours

  • working within the prison culture

  • managing conflict, aggression and violence

  • case management process and risk needs assessment

  • suicide intervention and prevention techniques

  • problem-solving

  • applying dynamic and static security skills

  • role of community corrections, youth justice initiatives and restorative justice

  • working with offenders from Aboriginal and diverse cultural backgrounds

  • ethics and professionalism in corrections

  • the Rule of Law and the Duty to Act Fairly


Throughout the program, you will practice building a healthy lifestyle, expand your conscientiousness about occupational health and safety, and practice leadership and teamwork.

The program includes two work experiences. One will be in the federal system (penitentiary placement, regional psychiatric centre, parole services, community facility or healing lodge) and the other will be in the provincial system (adult institution, youth custody facility or community corrections - probation, impaired driver treatment facility, healing lodge or community training residence).

Length: 64 weeks

Year 1 - 32 weeks; Year 2 - 32 weeks


Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for frontline institutional positions with federal or provincial correctional agencies and a select number of related youth facility/camp positions, community-based justice organizations and private security agencies.

For more information about career opportunities related to this program, contact Student Employment Services at the campus nearest you.

  • community-based justice service workers
  • correctional officers in federal institutions
  • correctional workers in provincial institutions
  • healing lodge personnel
  • private security personnel
  • youth facility and private youth agency workers

Program Details

Start Date(s): September

Apply Now

Admission Requirements


Note

  • Standard First Aid and CPR HeartSaver "C" AED or equivalent are required for occupational and/or clinical placement.

  • Accepted applicants are required to provide evidence of a Criminal Record Check for access to correctional facilities for tours and prior to entering the practicum component of the program. At the discretion of the practicum agency, you may be declined access to a clinical or work placement based on the contents of the Criminal Record Check. The cost of the Criminal Record Check is your responsibility.

  • If you have a criminal record for which a pardon has not been granted, you may be unable to complete the program.

  • Accepted applicants will be asked to complete a security clearance form prior to the start of the program. At the discretion of the correctional facility/agency, you may be denied access to a tour or work placement based on the results of the completed security clearance check. Students who do not have an acceptable security clearance may be unable to complete the following courses: CORR 175 (Introduction to Corrections), CORR 240 (Institutional Corrections), CORR 242 (Elements of Security), CORR 243 (Major Incidents), WORK 123 (Corrections Institutional Work Experience), WORK 124 (Corrections Work Experience). You must complete these courses to graduate from the program.


Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores and Post Secondary Success Requirements for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.



ACCUPLACER ©     

ACCUPLACER© Cut Scores
for this program

60Reading
60Sentence
Post-Secondary Success

Post-Secondary Success Requirements
for this program

One year post-secondary studies or completion of five Correctional Studies courses


Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of SIAST programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

Tuition and Fees

  • For complete details on tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the SIAST campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

Learning Method(s)

SIAST offers a variety of learning methods for course delivery. The following learning methods are available for some of the courses in this program.
      Classroom
    • The learning model is outcomes based. You must attend lectures, workshops and skills labs. Evaluations will include essays, journals, portfolios and computer testing.
      Home Study
      Online
      Work Experience

Please refer to the course descriptions for course specific learning methods.


Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) Availability

SIAST recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

Frequently asked questions regarding PLAR for this program are answered in the Fact Sheet. A detailed Candidate Guide, which includes a self-audit for all PLAR-ready courses, has been developed for this program. This information guides a candidate through all steps in the PLAR process.





Transfer Credit

Many SIAST students benefit from transferring credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. Find out more about transfer credit options.

Some transfer credit options for this program include:

  • course transfers to SIAST's Youth Care Worker certificate and diploma programs

  • block transfer of 60 credits to the Applied Criminal Justice degree program, Athabasca University

  • course transfers to the Human Justice degree program, Lethbridge Community College and the University of Regina


  • CLTR 120  Diversity
  • You will examine the elements of cultural diversity in the workplace. You will examine perspectives of personal, historical and cultural backgrounds of yourself and others. You will also examine racism and issues of power.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   SOCI 170   


  • COMM 112  Interpersonal Communication
  • You will focus on developing basic communication skills including effective listening and responding skills, trust building, verbal and nonverbal communication. You will also examine the role of self concept in effective communication.

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   COMM 107    COMM 291    COMM 296    HUMD 280    HUMR 186   


  • COMM 119  Writing Skills
  • You will practice a variety of written communication styles. You will receive information on basic grammar and the mechanics of writing. You will do research and create a research essay. Additionally you will develop a professional portfolio.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   COMM 295   


  • COMM 202  Conflict Resolution Strategies
  • You will develop assertiveness skills and apply them to situations requiring problem solving and conflict resolution.

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • COMM 224  Presentation Skills
  • You will learn the basics of effective presentation skills and have the opportunity to deliver a group presentation.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • COMM 227  Interviewing
  • You will review and apply the skills necessary to conduct effective interviews in law enforcement settings.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 134  Abnormal Behaviour
  • You will compare general information on abnormal behavior to the theories on the causes of abnormal behavior and explore current treatment options.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Independent Study, Prior Learning


  • CORR 135  Criminology
  • You will study theories relating to the causes of crime and criminology. You will apply the theories to specific situations and analyze the various methods of social control. The sex trade will be studied in detail.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 167  Criminal Justice System
  • You will examine the components of the criminal justice system. You will examine how the components work together to respond to crime and crime control.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Correspondence-Structured Time, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   YCW 187   


  • CORR 175  Introduction to Corrections
  • You will be introduced to the organizational structures of federal and provincial correctional systems. You will study the historical development of prisons in Canada. In this course you will also have an opportunity to tour federal and provincial correctional institutions.

    2.0 Credit Units
    24.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard


  • CORR 176  Youth Justice
  • You will review young offender legislation and examine Saskatchewan's model for managing young offenders. You will discuss trends in approaches to youth justice and also examine specific programs delivered in Saskatchewan.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   SOCI 184   


  • CORR 177  Women in Corrections
  • You will explore the historical roots of incarcerated women in Canada. Your studies will include studying gender issues in correctional programming, institutional initiatives for female offenders, and gender issues for female correctional staff.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard


  • HLTH 120  Communicable Diseases
  • You will examine the profiles of common communicable diseases both in the community and in institutional settings. You will practice specific prevention strategies.

    2.0 Credit Units
    28.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning, Online/Blackboard

    Equivalent Course(s):   SPCR 180   


  • HUMD 142  Lifespan Issues
  • You will examine human development across the lifespan. Your studies will focus on developmental factors throughout a person¿s life that impact on the choices that they make.

    3.0 Credit Units
    42.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   HUMD 186    HUMD 280   


  • LAW_ 162  Criminal Law
  • You will examine the Criminal Code and its relationship to selected criminal offenses and cases. You will also examine elements of a crime, pre-trial criminal procedures and the significance of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms as it impacts on criminal law.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • LEGL 161  Restorative Justice
  • You will examine the concept of restorative justice and explore the current initiatives provincially, nationally and internationally.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • LERN 140  Academic Management for Corrections
  • You will learn and practice academic management skills that you will need to be successful in a post secondary environment.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • NAST 120  Aboriginal Studies
  • You will examine elements of First Nations culture with a view to understanding both historical elements and contemporary issues in Canada. You will also examine information on the residential school system, the struggle of the Metis for legal and cultural recognition and Aboriginal cultural practices as the information applies to the community and law enforcement.

    4.0 Credit Units
    55.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   YCW 189   


  • PERS 142  Personal Wellness
  • You will examine aspects of personal wellness with emphasis on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

    3.0 Credit Units
    42.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   ECE 142    HLTH 184    NEPS 116    PE 181   


  • SPSY 123  Suicide Intervention
  • You will examine suicide in the institutional setting and suicide risk assessment tools. You will learn suicide prevention techniques by completing the Living Works Program.

    1.0 Credit Units
    16.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Prior Learning


  • SPSY 124  Professionalism and Ethics in Corrections
  • You will study the process of developing values and how they relate to the development of morals and ethics. The roles of values clarification and moral dilemmas, as they apply to professionalism in the field of corrections, will also be examined. You will be asked to demonstrate appropriate work ethics.

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   SPSY 184   


  • SPSY 240  Workplace Harrassment Prevention
  • You will examine the concepts of respectful communication and harassment prevention in workplace settings. Your studies will focus on the Harassment Free Workplace Policy with opportunity to practice respectful workplace interactions.

    1.0 Credit Units
    18.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


    Year 2

  • CORR 158  Sex Offenders
  • You will examine the profile of the sex offender and management strategies in institutions. You will study treatment strategies and relapse interventions available in the institution and the community.

    3.0 Credit Units
    42.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Independent Study, Prior Learning


  • CORR 179  Offender Supervision
  • You will gain an understanding of offender typologies and develop specific skills for supervising inmates. You will learn institutional polices relating to offender management and apply supervisory skills in a variety of situations.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 183  Correctional Reporting Procedures
  • You will develop observational skills which support the objectives of the offender disciplinary process. Based on these acquired skills, you will write reports common to federal and provincial corrections. You will also link information in institutional reports to the delivery of testimony in both institutional and open court systems.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 184  Introduction to Case Management
  • You will examine the federal and provincial case management process from sentencing to the development of initial case plans.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 185  Managing the Offender Case Plan
  • You will examine the process by which offender progress is monitored in federal and provincial institutions. Specific emphasis will be placed on the case planning required to prepare offenders for reintegration back into the community.

    1.0 Credit Units
    18.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 186  Offender Release and Community
  • You will examine the conditional release process and the intervention strategies utilized in community release plans.

    1.0 Credit Units
    18.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 187  Violent Offenders
  • You will identify the categories of violent offenders and discuss the impact the offenders have on the operation of federal and provincial institutions. You will also examine intervention strategies for violent offenders both in the institution and the community.

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 188  Program Planning and Delivery
  • You will study the process of developing and implementing programs suitable for delivery to offenders in both institutional and community settings. You will develop program goals (learning outcomes) and objectives (learning steps), identify learning activities, write lesson plans and develop program resources. You will have the opportunity to deliver a 3 hour presentation to offenders as part of this course .-

    3.0 Credit Units
    40.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 189  Charter and Policy
  • You will review legislative and policy directives that impact on the administration of security within institutions. The rights of inmates will be examined along with Institutional policies that govern a correctional officer’s daily duties and an inmate’s rights.

    1.0 Credit Units
    18.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab


  • CORR 240  Institutional Corrections
  • You will study the various offender subcultures and the effect that prison gangs have on institutional operations. You will analyze how offenders set up staff members in an institutional setting and practice responding accordingly. You will also review legislative and policy directives that impact on the administration of security within institutions. You will also examine inmates¿ rights and redress.

    3.0 Credit Units
    45.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 241  Security Foundations
  • You will examine the basic foundations of providing security in an institutional setting. You will learn the primary role of the correctional officer in providing care, custody and control of offenders. You will also study the concepts of dynamic and static security and individual security features that provide safety to the public, staff and offenders in institutional settings.

    2.0 Credit Units
    24.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Independent Study, Prior Learning


  • CORR 242  Elements of Security
  • You will examine the elements of security as it relates to the front line correctional officer. You will define and identify various types of contraband found in correctional institutions as well as learn how to gather and preserve evidence. You will analyze the Situation Management Model, the Use of Force Management Model and the Community. Assess, Partners, Resources, Activate (CAPRA) Model as a means of response options to offender behaviour. You will also receive hands-on instruction in the application of restraint equipment, and the procedural applications of searching techniques, controlling contraband and the use of force.

    4.0 Credit Units
    60.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 243  Major Incidents
  • You will examine indicators that contribute to disturbances and major incidents that occur in prisons. You will be introduced to the Crisis Management process as a means of address in various disturbances and major incidents. You will further examine contingency plans, procedural policies and resource teams related to responding to institutional emergencies.

    2.0 Credit Units
    24.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • CORR 245  Job Preparation
  • You will develop skills that allow you to successfully compete for jobs in the field of corrections and other related law enforcement careers.

    2.0 Credit Units
    30.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Prerequisites:
    CORR 119 Minimum Grade of 60


  • EMPS 240  Workplace Wellness
  • You will examine various topics and practices relating to maintaining personal safety in a hostile work environment.

    1.0 Credit Units
    20.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • SPSY 121  Addictions
  • You will examine the nature of addictions and the various treatment options available both in institutions and the community.

    3.0 Credit Units
    48.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning

    Equivalent Course(s):   YCW 284   

    Prerequisites:
    COMM 112 Minimum Grade of 60 and CORR 134 Minimum Grade of 60


  • SPSY 241  Family Violence
  • You will study the cycle of violence in a family setting. You will apply this knowledge to understanding the perpetrator and the victim when planning interventions. You will explore victim and offender treatment programs available in the institution and the community.

    2.0 Credit Units
    24.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Prior Learning


  • WORK 123  Corrections Institutional Work Experience
  • You will participate in a work experience in a provincial correctional centre or a federal penitentiary where you will demonstrate correction officer core competencies. Your work experience will provide you with the opportunity to practice and refine your skills.

    0.0 Credit Units
    160.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Work Experience - Group


  • WORK 124  Corrections Work Experience
  • You will participate in a work experience in a correctional program where you will demonstrate on-the-job corrections worker skills. Your work experience will provide you with the opportunity to practice and refine your skills in a corrections setting with serving offenders.




    0.0 Credit Units
    160.0 Other hours

    Learning Method(s): Prior Learning, Work Experience -Individual, Work Experience - Group



    There is no sequence to completing WORK 123 and WORK 124;
    however, you must successfully complete:

  • all year one course work prior to starting your first work experience.
  • all your course work and your first work experience in order to be considered for your second work experience.

  • More Information



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