Criminal Justice

The program offers a broad liberal arts education coupled with a specialization in criminal justice. Our faculty employ innovative teaching styles and techniques to help students analyze substantive issues, develop verbal and writing skills, acquire proficiency in research methods, statistical analysis and computer applications, and enhance critical thinking.

Integrating criminal justice theory, research, administration, and policy into our curriculum, our students develop the critical thinking-skills required for careers in today’s criminal justice system, or for graduate or further education. Our bachelor of science in criminal justice program offers two exciting concentrations in Criminology and Criminal Investigation so students can choose the concentration that interests them. The concentrations blend the university’s core curriculum with our own core of criminal justice requirements as well as a wide variety of electives designed to meet students’ specific areas of interest. Central to the senior-level student’s experience is a Capstone course or Internship that offer the student the opportunity to combine their academic learning with real-world experience and professional development.

Combined Bachelor of Science/Master of Science in Criminal Justice

The Criminal Justice Department also offers an accelerated 4 +1 program that allows eligible students to earn both a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Science degree in only five years instead of the traditional six years. The program allows students to count four graduate courses toward their undergraduate degree. This innovative program saves students time and money. Applicants must meet the academic criteria, a GPA of at least 3.25 and the completion of 72 undergraduate credits. Students who have transferred 45 or less credits can apply if they meet the academic criteria. Our 4+1 students, like our graduate students, will have the opportunity to choose from two concentrations – Criminology, and Criminal Investigation.

Criminal Justice Academy

The Criminal Justice (CJ) Academy is a club made up of students at the university who are interested in the field of Criminal Justice and in the study of related legal, social, and political issues. The purpose of the CJ Academy is to provide additional opportunities outside the classroom for students to learn more about the field of criminal justice and apply what they have learned in the classroom. Activities include guest speakers, career and internship days, tours of criminal justice facilities (i.e. jails, police departments), conferences, films, and open houses. Additionally, the club also plans “just for fun” social events (i.e. laser tag, Dave & Buster’s, etc.) and participates in meaningful community service such as volunteering at the On-Point Teen Resource Center in Salem, the Walk for HAWC (Healing Abuse, Working for Change) and soup kitchens in the area as well as assisting with White Ribbon Day.

Friends of Criminal Justice

The Association includes graduates from the Criminal Justice program who participate in various activities and maintain a professional network.

Alpha Phi Sigma, Eta Eta Chapter

National recognition for academic excellence in criminal justice, professional networking and access to grants, awards and scholarships are just a few reasons to join Alpha Phi Sigma. Alpha Phi Sigma is well represented in the professional ranks of all areas of the criminal justice field. The membership directories of the national professional associations, such as the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS), The American Society of Criminology (ASC), the American Correctional Association (ACA) are studded with the names of Alpha Phi Sigma members, both active and alumni. Furthermore, the contacts made through Alpha Phi Sigma will be valuable throughout the member’s educational and professional careers.

Mission Statement

The Department of Criminal Justice is committed to provide a diverse, intellectually stimulating, student-centered environment that offers a variety of interactive academic and field experiences. The Department will foster socially responsible leaders, who are committed to continuing scholarship and to regional and global goals.

Program Goals:

1. Increase students’ knowledge of crime, and of the criminal justice system and its components.

2. Expand students’ understanding of criminological theories and research and their relevance to criminal
justice policies.

3. Develop students’ critical thinking, oral and written communication skills, and problem solving capabilities.

4. Expand students’ appreciation of social responsibility, ethics, and diversity.

5. Augment students’ leadership skills through classroom and field experiences.