The Criminal Justice major investigates causes and prevention of criminal behavior, as well as the meaning and application of justice, the legal process, law enforcement, court management and correctional treatment. A minor in Criminal Justice is also available.

This degree program is designed to provide theoretical and practical knowledge for students interested in professional careers in traditional criminal justice fields such as corrections, courts, police and probation; in administrative positions in the field of criminal justice and law enforcement; and in law and paralegal occupations. Unlike many other criminal justice programs offered at other institutions, this program weaves aspects of diversity matters across the curriculum and retains a humanistic approach to studying crime, justice, punishment, legal procedures, and enforcement. Additionally, the Criminal Justice Capstone, as well as other program experiences, provides the opportunity for students to engage in individualized and meaningful criminal justice research with a faculty mentor.