Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice program is designed to provide students with an understanding of the criminal justice system. This degree program will provide students with the appropriate skills and knowledge to effectively function in a criminal justice environment. The BACJ curriculum provides a unique and innovative framework which emphasizes effective communication, ethical problem solving strategies, and collaboration with the community. The Criminal Justice degree program has components on local, state, and federal law enforcement; courts; corrections; forensics; homeland security; and victim advocacy.

A minor in criminal justice is also offered for undergraduate students completing a bachelor’s degree in a different area of study.

Program Mission Statement

The mission of the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice is to prepare students to be criminal justice professionals who apply critical analysis, ethical and legal problem-solving strategies, effective communication skills, innovative practices, and collaborative approaches within the criminal justice system and the community.

Program Learning Outcomes

• Criminal Justice System: Apply critical analysis and collaborative approaches to issues impacting the criminal justice system.
• Ethical Problem Solving: Apply ethical problem solving strategies within the criminal justice environment.
• Communication: Demonstrate effective communication skills in a criminal justice setting.
• Theory: Evaluate criminological theory to explain criminal behaviors and crime trends.
• Community: Apply innovative practices in an effort to build positive relationships with the community.

All courses taken in the major program must be passed with a letter grade of "C" or higher.

Courses may be used to fulfill both major and general education requirements.