Criminal Justice Major (33 hours)

This program is designed to provide perspective on the entire criminal justice system: crime as a social problem and society’s reactions to it, the organization and operation of the criminal justice system, and the correctional process, as well as causes of crime and delinquency and other current issues. 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, 2406 Sangren Hall (Telephone: 269-387-5271).

Required Prerequisites

The following courses are required before taking any of the core courses. These hours are not included in the 33 hour requirement for the major.

SOC 2000 - Principles of Sociology Credits: 3 hours
or
SOC 2100 - Modern Social Problems Credits: 3 hours
SOC 2600 - Introduction to Criminal Justice Credits: 3 hours

Writing Expectation

Students should have completed ENGL 1050 or equivalent and write at the college level before enrolling in the following advanced courses.

Baccalaureate-Level Writing Requirements

Students who have chosen the Criminal Justice major will satisfy the Baccalaureate-Level Writing Requirement by successfully completing the following course:

SOC 4660 - Advanced Criminology Credits: 3 hours

Required Core Courses (18 hours)

All of the following courses are required. It is important to check with the advisor so courses are taken in proper sequence.

SOC 3620 - Criminology Credits: 3 hours
SOC 3630 - Criminal Justice Process Credits: 3 hours
SOC 3640 - Sociology of Law Enforcement Credits: 3 hours
SOC 3650 - Correctional Process Credits: 3 hours
SOC 4540 - Juvenile Delinquency Credits: 3 hours
SOC 4660 - Advanced Criminology Credits: 3 hours

Required Research Methods

SOC 2820 - Methods of Data Collection Credits: 3 hours
SOC 2830 - Methods of Data Analysis Credits: 3 hours
(SOC 2820 is a prerequisite for SOC 2830.)

Electives

To complete the required total of 33 hours, students may take any of the following courses.

Criminal Justice Major (33 hours)

Required Prerequisites

Writing Expectation

Baccalaureate-Level Writing Requirements

Required Core Courses (18 hours)

Required Research Methods

Electives

Contemporary Issues in Sociology and Criminology

Courts

Juvenile Justice

Internship and Directed Study

Law Enforcement Administration