Be sure to refer to the Suggested Academic Plan and consult with your adviser regarding the proper sequence of courses.
The bachelor of science degree program in Criminal Justice educates students to become effective problem-solvers as professionals in the field of criminal justice. The study of criminal justice is approached as an applied interdisciplinary science, teaching students the theoretical and the practical aspects of public safety and the administration of justice, along with incorporating other related fields. The criminal justice curriculum provides students with the opportunity and assistance to learn about the roles of police, courts, laws, and corrections as they relate to the adult and juvenile justice system. CRIMJ 012 introduces theories of human behavior, particularly criminal or deviant behavior – why do people commit crime? CRIMJ 210 covers the historical development in our American policing, while CRIMJ 220 explains what happens once a defendant is brought to the court of law and CRIMJ 230 explains the role of prison – what do we do about criminals?
Pursuant to the national trend of data-driven informatics, the program requires students to learn quantitative methodology and statistical analysis. Students also learn the history, fundamental concepts, and critical issues related to the role of gender and race/ethnicity in the criminal justice system, victimology, and ethics in criminal justice. Further, students have the freedom to tailor their studies to their career of choice through the required fifteen credits, chosen in consultation with their adviser.
Students are encouraged to complete an internship in the field to build their network and their knowledge about a potential career. Students also can participate in a research project or conduct their own independent research studies, some of which have been published in academic journals. Interested students have the option to complete the integrated undergraduate-graduate (IUG) program to earn both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in five years.