Community and Public Safety Professional Certificate Program

The Community and Public Safety Professional Certificate and Diploma program prepares students for a career in the public safety sector. Graduates will be able to use their certificate to pursue applying to their field of interest within public safety agencies.

Graduates will be able to pursue multiple career pathways in the field of public safety. By moving from policing specific and a tone of “law enforcement”, the revised program will introduce students to a variety of opportunities including but not limited to, policing, corrections, border services, conservation, bylaw, sheriff, SPCA, coroner, Fisheries and Ocean Canada, probation, military, and commercial vehicle safety. As students explore the various professions in the sector, they will also examine the complex socio-historical relationship between Canada and Indigenous people, thus challenging their beliefs and assumptions about present day relations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people, specifically in the criminal justice system. In doing so, learners will develop an enhanced understanding of the impact of colonization on Indigenous people and be better prepared in their selected field and the people they serve.

The Community and Public Safety Certificate Program aims to provide graduates with:

• a decolonized perspective on criminal justice and a deepened understanding of traditional justice practices relevant to a contemporary movement toward alternative methods for addressing crime and punishment


• an enhanced understanding of recent publications relevant to the field of public safety including but not limited to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s (TRC) Calls to Action, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) and Bill 41 in British Columbia, and the Murder and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls Inquiry (MMIWG) and the relationship between public safety and the purpose of these documents


• an understanding of the disparities that exist in the criminal justice system that has contributed to the overrepresentation of Indigenous people in the system


• an understanding of the mistrust that Indigenous people have for Canada’s criminal justice system


• an understanding of how political, social and economic environments contribute to challenges faced by Indigenous people


• an understanding of public service theory and practice


• excellent interpersonal communication skills


• a professional manner


• empathetic and caring attitude


• a basic understanding of trauma-informed practice


• an understanding of public safety principles and ethics


• problem solving abilities


• an ability to work effectively individually and in groups


• a combination of academic, experiential and community-based learning


• skills for self care and mindfulness

The Community and Public Safety Professional Certificate and Diploma program is delivered over two terms in one year and consists of six courses per term.  The delivery model will consist of classroom instruction and opportunites for field study.

Classroom concepts may be evaluated through written exams, assignments, class participation, presentations.  Student’s knowledge and competencies are evaluated by written exams, assignments, and/or classroom participation.  Performance is assessed by instructor observations of students in work experience situations. All courses are evaluated per the NVIT Grading System.

Learners will receive a certificate upon successful completion of the required courses within the program. A minimum 2.00 GPA for course work in the certificate program is required to graduate.

• Be a minimum of 18 years of age by the start of the program or obtain permission from the program;


• Grade 12 or equivalent or mature student status


• C+ minimum in English Studies 12 or English First Peoples 12 or English 12 or English 060;


• Foundations of Mathematics 11 or MATH 057;


• Be a Canadian Citizen or have Permanant Resident status;


• Completed Medical Clearance Form from Physician; and


• Completed Criminal Record Check.

Applicants are encouraged to meet academic requirements before program entry.

Applicants must contact their local physician to obtain medical clearance to participate in the program, which includes physical education and simulated fitness tests.

Applicants are required to possess a valid, unrestricted Canadian-issued Class 5 driver’s license to apply to most fields in public safety; therefore, applicants are encouraged to start the process of obtaining their license before program completion.

Before participating in the CAPS 280: Public Safety Field School in the Diploma year, students are required to contact their local RCMP detachment to complete a current criminal record check and are responsible for associated fees.

Professional requirements for a career in the public safety field include an enhanced reliability security check and hearing and vision testing. Although these are not requirements for program admission, applicants should consider these requirements when selecting their career pathway.

NVIT is committed to ensuring education is accessible to all people. Students who do not meet program requirements should contact an NVIT Academic and Financial Planner regarding upgrading opportunities.

Course Listing for this program

Current Course Offerings