Criminal Justice Studies Major
This program offers an interdisciplinary understanding of the impact of justice and injustice on individuals, communities, institutions and/or nations. Students engage in the study of how crime and justice are linked to power, ideology, social control, and social change in our contemporary society, Students select a substantive study track in one of two areas.
The Criminal Justice Track focuses on criminal justice structures and processes. The program explores crime as a social problem and society’s reactions to it, the organization and operation of police, courts and punishment, as well as causes of crime and delinquency and other current issues.
The Justice Studies Track focuses on sustainable and just solutions to social, political and economic problems. The program explores critical issues related to socioeconomic, racial/ethnic and gender justice, cultural identity, human rights, human relationships to the environment, deviant behavior and social control policies.
While the goal of the program is to provide knowledge and skills necessary for students interested in careers in criminal justice, it will support a number of related areas. In addition, students will be well prepared to pursue professional or graduate work in law, criminology, or other areas.
Students should consider internships for the fall, spring and summer sessions. Not all students are guaranteed internships and some placements require the applicant to undergo security checks. Applications are required. Further information and application forms may be obtained at the Criminal Justice office, 3229 Sangren Hall (Telephone: (269) 387-5271).
The minimum grade for all Criminal Justice coursework is a “C.”