Criminal Justice, BS

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Normal Time for Completion: Four Years

This program is offered on Main Campus, online, evenings, and weekends.

Students in the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program develop skills in report writing, fingerprinting, and crime scene investigation. Students will gain well-rounded knowledge in the areas of law enforcement, forensic science, corporate security, courts and corrections. Students are encouraged to seek out internships that will grant them hands-on access to work in corrections, the court system and local, state, and federal law enforcement. Graduates are prepared for a variety of career options at the federal, state and local levels of law enforcement, court systems, and corrections. Graduates may consider employment opportunities with the Federal Marshall's office, FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Department of Homeland Security, or IRS.  

The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree is not designed to fulfill the educational requirements for any professional credential, such as a police officer certification. Professional credentials also have other requirements outside of education. Law enforcement and other public safety positions often require testing, specialized trainings, background checks, and more. Job requirements also vary by jurisdiction, involving the local, state, or national levels. Learn about law enforcement and public safety careers through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Program Outcomes

1. Students will examine the structure of the American Criminal Justice System, including, but not limited to identifying and demonstrating an understanding of the branches of government, their functions, and how they interrelate with juvenile and adult proceedings.
2. Students will be able to describe the nature of criminal law and its derivative in Common Law, analyze and apply the U.S. Constitution to contemporary issues in criminal justice.
3. Students will be able to assess theories relating to the causation of crime and criminal activity and identify the categories of crimes, penalties and their defenses.
4. Students will develop and demonstrate leadership in analyzing vital issues of concern within their field.
5. Students will be able to compare and contrast the foundations of American criminal law and demonstrate how they translate to modern day criminal law.
6. Students will be able to distinguish and identify discretion in the context of a criminal justice professional and demonstrate an understanding of ethical and professional responsibility.
7. Students will develop and demonstrate effective communication on a college level to write and articulate criminal justice principles in the field.
8. Students will be able to explain the role and function of law enforcement, including municipal police, the county sheriff, local agencies, state and federal law enforcement, and the public and private security industry.
9. Students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of the purpose and function of probation, parole, and imprisonment.
10. Students will be able to identify, analyze, and apply research-based techniques to complex issues facing criminal justice practitioners.