Department of Criminal Justice

Mission

The Department of Criminal Justice prepares students to examine crime, justice, and public safety through critical inquiry, ethical leadership, and community engagement. Grounded in the Dominican tradition of the search for truth, the department develops knowledgeable professionals who are prepared to serve diverse communities and contribute to a more just society.

About the Department

The Department of Criminal Justice explores the causes of crime, the administration of justice, and the systems that promote public safety. Through the interdisciplinary study of criminology, policing, courts, corrections, law, and public policy, students develop the knowledge and analytical skills needed to evaluate complex issues, communicate effectively, and make ethical decisions in an evolving criminal justice landscape.

Faculty integrate current scholarship with practical application, encouraging students to examine crime and justice through multiple perspectives while preparing for careers in law enforcement, corrections, courts, victim advocacy, social services, government, nonprofit organizations, and graduate study.

Degrees and Programs

The department offers the following academic programs:

Associate's Degrees 

• Associate of Science in Criminal Justice (Adult Degree Program)

Bachelor’s Degrees 

• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (Adult Degree Program and Traditional Undergraduate Program)

Minors 

• Criminal Justice (Adult Degree Program and Traditional Undergraduate Program)

4+1 Program 

• Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice/Master of Science in Criminal Justice (Traditional Undergraduate Program)

Experiential Learning

Students connect classroom learning with professional practice through internships, community partnerships, research, and experiential learning opportunities. Working with law enforcement agencies, courts, corrections, nonprofit organizations, and community partners, students gain practical experience while strengthening the leadership, communication, and professional skills needed to serve diverse communities.

Department Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of a degree in Criminal Justice, students will:

• Apply critical inquiry to analyze crime, justice, and contemporary issues from diverse perspectives.
• Demonstrate professional knowledge of criminal justice systems, policies, and practices.
• Engage ethically and effectively with community and professional partners.
• Apply research, communication, and analytical skills to criminal justice problems.
• Demonstrate the knowledge and professional competencies needed for career success or graduate study.