Protection, Security and Investigation

*Domestic applicants include Canadian citizens, permanent residents, protected persons and Convention refugees.
You will study the practical aspects and applications of law enforcement, to be prepared for a career in both the public and private security sectors.
Courses such as Corrections 1 & 2, Canadian Border Security 1 & 2 and Institutional Security 1 & 2, will provide you with the skills and knowledge needed to enter these important and rewarding careers. You will learn about the justice system, gain a thoughtful understanding of Diversity and Indigenous People in Canada and develop skills in how to write effectively for the public safety sector.
With the Protection, Security and Investigation program, your ambition will be met by limitless career potential. As a graduate, you can choose to further your education through articulation agreements between Fanshawe and other colleges and universities, or you can competently, effectively and safely start your career in protection, security and investigation for the public or private sector.
Graduates of Fanshawe’s Protection, Security and Investigation program have the knowledge and skill to keep order and maintain safety as correctional officers, store investigators, loss prevention officers, security and safety officers, border services officers, retail security, court officers or other related employment.
Did you know Fanshawe consistently ranks high in graduation employment rates among large colleges in Ontario?
Here are some examples of career opportunities for graduates of Fanshawe’s Protection, Security and Investigation program:
Store Investigator/Loss Prevention Officer
Prevent theft or loss from retail companies by maintaining the safety and security of facilities and employees.
Security Guard
Maintain the security and safety of facilities and employees.
Border Services Officer
Keep Canadians safe by stopping weapons, drugs and inadmissible people from entering the country, while making legitimate trade and travel possible.
Correctional Officer
Enhancing public safety by encouraging and assisting offenders to become law-abiding citizens.
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to
Shannon Yates
Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, or a mature applicant with the following course:
- Grade 12 English (U), or
- Grade 12 English (C) with a minimum final grade of 60%
Students who do not meet the admission requirements are recommended for academic upgrading. A conditional offer may be possible with proof of enrolment. Alternatively, applicants may choose to do the one-year Public Safety Fundamentals preparatory program. Graduates who have a minimum final grade of C in WRIT-1089 will meet the admissions requirements for this program.
Note:
Both the Protection, Security and Investigation and Police Foundations programs share a common first level of courses. Protection, Security and Investigations students who meet a minimum GPA after the successful completion of their first level may be eligible to transfer into Police Foundations. Please note that Police Foundations is a competitive program that offers limited seats.
Level 1 | ||||
Take all of the following Mandatory Courses: | ||||
PSFY-1000 | Public Safety Principles in Ca | 3 | ||
This course examines the organizations that comprise Canada's public safety network, as well as their roles in protecting Canadians and their communities. Students will develop an understanding of career opportunities and hiring requirements within these organizations, as well as the interoperability of private security and public safety agencies. | ||||
LAWS-1103 | Criminal Justice in Canada | 3 | ||
The Canadian Criminal Justice System encompasses law enforcement, the courts, and the correctional system. This course will enable the student to understand Canada's central justice agencies' history, roles, and organization and how federal, provincial, and municipal laws are made and enforced. The Criminal Code of Canada is introduced regarding its purpose, structure, format, and use. Students collaborate in teams to enhance their interpretation and knowledge of Canadian law through case-based learning. | ||||
LAWS-1104 | Provincial Statutes & Regulations 1 | 3 | ||
This course introduces students to provincial legislation specific to many public safety professions. Topics covered include the Provincial Offences Act, Mental Health Act, Residential Tenancies Act, Trespass to Property Act, Liquor Licence and Control Act, Coroners Act, Blind Persons' Rights Act, Cannabis Control Act and Safe Streets Act. Through case-based learning, students apply apprehension, arrest, and search and seizure authorities. They also complete court documents enforcing common offences. | ||||
HLTH-1312 | Mental Health & Social Welfare | 2 | ||
This course will provide a perspective on mental health principles, disorders and behaviour management, the mental health system, community agencies and personal support systems. Students will learn legislation and policies to work with people affected by mental health and addiction issues respectfully and effectively. Through dynamic simulations and self-assessment, students will examine the stigma associated with mental health and how mental health is addressed in the criminal justice system. | ||||
PHRE-1047 | Fitness, Health, and Wellness 1 | 2.5 | ||
Public safety agencies recognize the importance of fitness, health, and wellness for public safety personnel. This course introduces students to occupational fitness tests, professionalism, stress management, wellness, and appropriate strategies for developing and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Students develop a personal fitness plan and perform elements of occupational fitness tests used by public safety agencies. | ||||
PSFY-1001 | Professional Practice-Teamwork | 1.5 | ||
This course introduces students to the concept of teamwork and the importance of utilizing various forms of communication in public safety professions. The topics include situational awareness and officer safety, basic interviewing and observations skills, notebook entries and incident report writing. Through scenario-based learning, students develop the ability to work in teams and investigate minor occurrences while following policies and procedures used by public safety agencies. | ||||
SOCI-1001 | Sociology & Canadian Society | 3 | ||
This course is designed to acquaint the student with the sociological perspective and the analysis of social events. Topics of study will include research methodology, culture, socialization, deviance and crime, social inequality, social change, and collective behaviour. The student will also analyze how law enforcement personnel, law enforcement services, and society have benefited from the social sciences. | ||||
WRIT-1089 | Reason & Writing 1 for Public Safety | 3 | ||
This course will introduce public safety students to essential principles of reading, writing, and reasoning at the postsecondary level. Students will identify, summarize, analyze, and evaluate multiple short readings and write persuasive response essays to develop their vocabulary, comprehension, grammar, and critical thinking. |
*Total program costs are approximate, subject to change and do not include the health and dental plan fee, bus pass fee or program general expenses.