Program Description
The criminal justice major emphasizes a multidisciplinary and experiential approach to crime, justice, and the reduction of violence. It is a liberal arts major, requiring students to think critically, contemplate and appreciate alternative viewpoints, and communicate effectively. It encourages students to take both an analytical and experiential approach to criminal justice.
Students who complete the criminal justice program may go on to careers in law enforcement, corrections, social services, the justice system, or law. Regardless of student career track, the study of criminal justice provides a deeper understanding of crime and justice in contemporary American society.
The bachelor’s degree program may be completed in 4 years for students who carry a full course load of 30 credits per year.
The associate’s degree program may be completed in 2 years for students who carry a full course load of 30 credits per year.
Learning Outcomes
Students completing the Criminal Justice Program should be able to:
- Articulate the purpose, structure, and function of the American criminal justice system.
- Discuss the roles of law enforcement, the courts and the corrections system and compare the common values each shares with the competing goals of crime control and due process.
- Demonstrate proficiency in the use of terminology and fundamental constructs necessary for competence in the field.
- Identify and evaluate basic theories of crime causation.
- Explain how research in criminology can result in changes in social policy and legislation.
- Identify the foundation of our system of laws and explain the philosophical underpinnings of criminal responsibility and punishment.
- Recognize that crime is defined by, and is a reflection of, societal attitudes and tolerances.
- Apply the concepts of justice, morality and ethics to law enforcement practice and the trial process.
- Demonstrate analytical and problem solving skills in reading and writing about issues in law and criminal justice.
- Articulate accepted standards of professional and ethical behavior.
- Produce written material that demonstrates a proficiency in composition, grammar, and proper documentation.
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