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The Criminal Justice program prepares students for a career in law enforcement or corrections. The degree program provides students with knowledge in the areas of U.S. law enforcement, criminology, criminal investigation and community relations. Available areas of study help students focus on juvenile issues, causes of crime and criminal behavior, corrections and incarceration, investigative procedures and/or forensics and investigative techniques.  A concentration is also available providing students greater knowledge in the specific area of interest. The Criminal Justice program provides the student with an understanding of the United States Criminal justice system. The Curriculum offers a useful educational experience and academic skills for students who wish to pursue graduate study or possibly a career as a Police or Corrections Officer, Criminal Investigator, Probation Officer, Customs Officer, Secret Service Officer or Special Agent.

Degree Program Objectives
In addition to the institutional and general education level learning objectives, the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice also seeks the following specific learning outcomes of its graduates. With reference to each of the respective areas of criminal justice, graduates in this degree program will be able to:

Criminal Justice Administration and Organization

• Recognize and explain the major international, U.S., and localized law enforcement systems and organization.
• Describe and analyze the political and public administrative aspects of law enforcement organizations.

Criminal Justice Theories and Concepts

• Communicate and apply the major theories and concepts of crime, criminal justice, and criminology.
• Conduct research associated with criminal justice and criminology theories.

Criminal Justice Operations, Practices, and Processes

• Assess the operations, practices, and processes associated with leading standards of evidence and law. While learning objectives that are specific to the academic discipline have been identified for each degree program, the University System also outlines general education outcomes (Level 1 and 2) that are sought throughout the institution and at each degree level. For a comprehensive discussion of these objectives please refer to the academic catalog.

Degree Program Requirements

Total = 121 semester hours