Outcomes

The BA in Justice Studies has been designed to allow graduates to achieve the following learning outcomes: 

• A solid knowledge of the Canadian legal system including the broad range of justice services within the Canadian criminal justice system, the civil law system and the administrative law system. Graduates will also be able to compare the Canadian legal system to other legal systems in the world as well as to international law and international human rights legislation. 
• Students will attain conflict management skills and practical training in alternative dispute resolution practices. This includes skills training in negotiation, mediation and facilitation. The students are trained in specific alternative dispute resolution programs such as sentencing circles, victim-offender reconciliation, family group conferencing, etc.  
• An understanding of techniques associated with inter-cultural and cross-cultural justice work specifically as it is related to Canada's multi-cultural society. Special emphasis is given to Aboriginal cultures, their histories, as well as to manifestations of Aboriginal self-government and justice practices. In teaching students to deal with other cultures, the BA in Justice Studies also prepares graduates to work with minority groups and to conduct international work.  
• An understanding of the philosophical underpinnings of the Canadian legal system, its institutions and regulations that will enable students to analyze laws, practices, and legal developments. This comprehension will help graduates exercise discretion as a justice service worker in a manner that corresponds to ‘Canadian values’.  
• An awareness of how public and social policy influences law. Students can identify interests underlying public and social policy and understand how these interests can be evaluated in the Canadian justice context.  
• An understanding of employment standards and regulations. Graduates are able to identify, understand and correctly apply laws and regulations that govern the workplace. In addition, students are made aware of agencies that can be called upon in cases of conflict in contractual relationships, in family disputes, and in cases of interference by government agencies. This includes an understanding of the mandate and working mechanisms of these agencies.  
• The ability to conduct an academic analysis of legal structures and justice perspectives. Students are made aware of different perspectives on law and justice. They are encouraged to provide for a comprehensive analysis and comparison of their point of view with alternative perspectives and interpretations. This analysis prepares students for ongoing scholarship as professionals.  
• Solid communication skills and an ability to work in teams to identify issues, analyze options, problem solve through critical thinking, and implement strategies for solutions.