What is Criminal Justice?

Criminal justice involves a thorough understanding of the dynamics of criminal and delinquent behavior, the nature and scope of the crime and delinquency complex in contemporary society, and the current philosophy, ethics, methodology and techniques of law enforcement, the courts and corrections.

Criminal justice majors may graduate with either a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in criminal justice or an Associate (A.S.) degree in corrections or criminal Justice. Upon graduation, students in criminal justice and/or corrections will be equipped with knowledge of basic criminal justice and corrections, its current and specific areas and problems within the system.

A basic core curriculum of approximately 64 hours in areas such as foreign language, mathematics, philosophy, science, theology and fine arts rounds out the program.

A minor in criminal justice is earned by completing 15 credit hours of required criminal justice courses. Also, an 18 credit hour certification in corrections or criminal justice is available for practitioners in the field who need to be updated on contemporary trends or for others with interest in obtaining basic knowledge of the field. Students should consult the program director concerning specific requirements for the minor.