Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice
- Degree Structure - Start In
- Semester 1 or 2 (February or July)
60
Overview
Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice
Introduction
The Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice (PGCertCJ) will develop your expertise and understanding of theory and practices in the justice system as an entry to postgraduate study in Criminal Justice in Aotearoa New Zealand.
This programme is particularly suited to those already working in criminal justice fields and wanting to upskill, or as a pathway onto our postgraduate Criminal Justice research programmes.
Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice
Why study a Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice at UC?
- Examine criminal justice and its institutions in Aotearoa, and investigate and critique current issues in the system.
- Option to learn introductory skills in conducting criminal justice research, using real projects as a basis for your study.
- Part-time study available for working professionals to study around other commitments.
Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice
Entry requirements
To enrol in the PGCertCJ, you will need to have either a Bachelor of Criminal Justice (or equivalent), or any other Aotearoa degree and three years of work experience in a relevant field.
Your previous studies must include a B Grade Average in at least 90 points at 300-level.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
For the full entry requirements, use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at myUC.
See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.
Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice
How do I plan my certificate?
The Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice can be started in either February or July and is completed within 6 months full-time or 2 years part-time.
The programme is made up of 60 points (two 30-point courses).
Choose two from the following:
- CRJU601 Research Methods in Criminal Justice
- CRJU602 Criminal Justice Systems
- CRJU603 Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice
Domestic students
2025 tuition fee estimate: $4,338 (60 points)
International students
2025 tuition fee estimate: $18,400 (60 points)
Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice
Further study
UC also offers the following postgraduate Criminal Justice programmes:
- Postgraduate Diploma in Criminal Justice
- Master of Criminal Justice
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Criminal Justice
With approval, you may choose to transfer your completed courses from this Certificate to either the Diploma or Master's degree.
Postgraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice
Career opportunities
The PGCertCJ will develop your advanced knowledge in criminal, government, and public sectors and prepare you navigate and affect change in these complex systems.
This study will support law and criminal justice careers such as within criminal rehabilitation, policing, policy development, security, social services, and more.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student stories.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what can you do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
