Canada Immigration Questions

I stayed in US for more than 5 years and now work in Canada. If I want to immigrate to Canada, is a non-criminal record certification needed?

If yes, at what step is it needed?

I was told a fingerprint in US is needed to get that certification. Is it correct that I have to do it in US?

As my staying in US ended with a Ph D degree, can that prove I have no criminal record as I think if I have ever have any criminal act, the university will expell me (therefore I can not get that degree)?

Thank you for your answer.