Make your transfer to CCJA for a Criminal Justice diploma

Thinking About Transferring to CCJA? Here’s What You Should Consider Before Your Second Year of School.

As your first year of college wraps up, it’s natural to start reflecting on your academic path especially if your ultimate goal is a career in policing, corrections, military police, or justice services. If you're starting to question whether your current program is truly preparing you for the realities of this demanding and rewarding field, it might be time to consider a change. Our Criminal Justice Diploma in Calgary, offers a focused and professional pathway designed specifically for students committed to these careers. But how do you know if transferring is the right move?

Here are key questions to ask yourself as you approach your second year:

Ella - Criminal Justice Diploma Student attending the 2024 dog trials by the Calgary Police Service Dog Unit.

1. Are my current courses setting me up for real-world success in policing, corrections, or justice?

Not all criminal justice programs are created equal. Some are theory-heavy with little application, while others may lack the structure and professional environment expected by recruiters in law enforcement and related fields.

Ask yourself:

• Are my classes exposing me to real case studies, procedures, and justice systems in Canada?

• Am I learning from instructors from policing, military police, justice and correctional officers with Masters Degrees?

• Does the curriculum include practical components like fitness, defensive tactics, interview preparation, and off-campus activities such as competitive sport shooting and fitness?

At CCJA, our program is designed with the end in mind—meaning we build every part of our curriculum to align with what employers actually look for in candidates. From the first day, you're in a learning environment that mirrors the expectations of professional service.

2. Is my volunteerism and co-curricular involvement enhancing my recruitment potential?

Police and justice agencies are not just looking for a diploma—they're looking for well-rounded individuals who are committed to service, community, and teamwork. Volunteer experience, leadership opportunities, and involvement in relevant events can make a significant difference in your application.

Ask yourself:

• Have I had meaningful opportunities to volunteer with law enforcement or justice professionals and organizations?

• Is my current college helping me build a portfolio of co-curricular experiences that recruiters value?

• Do I know how to talk about these experiences in a way that demonstrates readiness for service?

CCJA prioritizes community engagement. From assisting with police canine trials to participating in G7 security events and volunteering at justice-related initiatives, students get involved early and often. It’s not just about what you know, but what you do with what you know. Being seen and being heard bridging classroom to real-world is what we do well.

3. Are my fitness classes preparing me for the physical demands of recruitment and lifestyle in the justice sector?

Physical readiness isn’t just about passing a test—it’s about building a lifestyle that supports your success and resilience in the field. If your current fitness courses feel generic or disconnected from recruitment standards, you may be missing a critical piece of the puzzle. Some justice colleges offer classroom-based fitness classes with no expectation for fitness and wellness – a key component to mental health resilience and readiness for recruitment.

Ask yourself:

• Is my coursework and coaching staff preparing me for the realities of fitness required for my program?

• Do I understand the physical demands of the career I want and do I get to practice good fitness that supports the occupational mental health best-practices?

• Are my faculty and instructors “walking their talk” as it relates to fitness and my health in and outside of the classroom?

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At CCJA, we offer purpose-driven fitness training aligned with law enforcement standards across Canada. Our instructors are not just fitness professionals—they’re part of a justice-focused team that understands how to coach and prepare you for success. We also ensure that your mental resilience and physical health go hand-in-hand, which is essential for long-term success.

Our Criminal Justice Diploma student participating with Law Enforcement for their Torch Run. It's annual Polar Plunge in support of Special Olympics Alberta

Final Thoughts: Is It Time for a Change?

Making the decision to transfer colleges isn’t easy. But when your career goals are clear, your training needs to be just as focused. If you’re serious about a future in policing, corrections, or public safety, then the environment, curriculum, and mentorship at CCJA might be the right next step.

Transferring could be the moment you shift from being a student of criminal justice to a future professional in criminal justice. If you're ready to be immersed in a police and justice-centric learning environment with real-world expectations, contact us today to talk about transfer options and how CCJA can help set you on the right path.

Interested in Transferring to CCJA?

Our admissions team is ready to answer your questions about credit transfer, program fit, and your goals in the justice profession.

Call us today 587-330-1620

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