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Criminal Justice at Penn State Harrisburg

The Criminal Justice program educates students to become effective problem-solvers as professionals in the field of criminal justice.

Criminal Justice (B.S.)

The bachelor of science degree program in criminal justice educates students to become effective problem-solvers as professionals in the field of criminal justice and provides its graduates with the communications and analytical skills critical to succeed in criminal justice and related careers. Through an interdisciplinary approach to the problems of crime and society, the program also equips students to pursue graduate study in criminal justice or related disciplines.

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Make the change you want to see in your community

Learn to tackle tough challenges that impact our society.  Develop skills to excel at problem-solving.  Explore coursework in law, criminal justice policy, victimology and more.

Design your individualized program in Criminal Justice

Advance your understanding of criminal behavior and the justice system through an interdisciplinary approach.  Work with a Criminal Justice advisor to tailor your criminal justice program to your interests and career goals.

Improve the skills employers want

Stand out among your peers.  Hone communication and analytical skills critical to success in criminal justice and related areas.

Secure a job in this fast-growing field

Criminal justice employment opportunities - especially policing - are projected to grow through the year 2030.  Employment opportunities for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors are expected to grow 23 percent through the year 2030 - much faster than the national average for all occupations.

Prepare for graduate study

Develop the skills and credentials you need to for a competitive application and success in graduate school.  A graduate degree in criminal justice is a great step for those interested in doctoral studies or a career in the legal system.  Exceptional students can earn a head start and save time (and money) to graduate degree completion through the Integrated B.S./M.A. program.

Already in the field?  Earn credit for the Police Academy!

Students with Pennsylvania State Police training, Municipal Police training, Act 120 or Act 102  transcripts may receive up to 16.5 credits toward their undergraduate criminal justice degree.

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Criminal Justice (B.S.)

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Emma Leaman

Grad student Emma Leaman discusses her research

In an interview with Sage Publishing, Criminal Justice graduate student Emma Leaman discusses her research on the evaluation of a mental health liaison program at a small police department.

Watch the interview
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This program is also available via World Campus.

For more information see the World Campus program listing

Transfer to Penn State Harrisburg
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Criminal Justice Programs

Criminal Justice (B.S.)
Criminal Justice (M.A.)
Criminal Justice Policy and Administration (M.P.S.)
Accelerated B.S./M.A. in Criminal Justice (IUG)
Criminal Justice (A.S.)
Criminal Justice (Minor)

See Also

  • Suggested Academic Plan
  • Honor Society
  • Request More Information
  • Criminal Justice Internships
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Penn State Harrisburg

A comprehensive college in southcentral Pennsylvania offering more than 70 undergraduate and graduate programs.
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