Bachelor of Science - Criminology and Criminal Justice

The School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Emergency Management works collaboratively to investigate, understand, and solve social problems related to crime and criminal behavior, primarily by examining the policies and systems designed to control criminality. They offer the bachelor's and master's degrees in criminology and criminal justice, an undergraduate minor in criminology and criminal justice, an undergraduate minor in forensic studies, and a certificate in crime scene investigations. They also offer fully online master's degrees in emergency services administration and in criminology and criminal justice. All of their programs are interdisciplinary in nature, drawing on the fields of criminology, law, sociology, psychology, political science, philosophy, public health, and, when applicable, the natural sciences as well. Through a social scientific lens, their challenging curricula are designed to sharpen students’ reasoning, ethical decision making, problem solving, and communication abilities. The School promotes life-long learning among students who develop into professionals prepared to lead public and private efforts that make communities safer and that promote the equitable application of the law across all boundaries, both perceived and real. Graduates of their degree programs are well-prepared to become agents of positive change through evaluation, research, ethical practice, and dedicated service. Their first-rate faculty is comprised of teacher-scholars who enjoy national reputations in their respective areas of expertise. A supporting group of part-time faculty members who are dedicated, highly knowledgeable professionals assist in the delivery of a curriculum that combines the best of theory, policy, research, and practice. And, the comprehensive internship program allows all students to integrate their classroom-based knowledge with practical, applied experiential learning that, in turn, helps students make informed decisions about employment and/or further educational opportunities. Graduates enter careers in policing, corrections (including probation and parole), the court system, emergency management, social service agencies, private security, juvenile justice, investigations, and in research and/or policy divisions of numerous governmental agencies. Undergraduates are also well-prepared to pursue advanced degrees in criminology/criminal justice, law, public affairs, and related graduate fields.