The Criminal Justice major prepares students for both careers and advanced studies through a combination of courses in criminal justice, psychology and sociology providing an interdisciplinary understanding of the nature of crime as well as the processes that prevent and respond to crime. Additionally, the program considers justice principles and methods of social control and their applications to various areas within the criminal justice system. Through the analysis of crime, justice, and social control, students will develop a personal definition of justice, a fuller understanding of the world in which they live, and the ability to identify careers and strategies for action. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking skills as students examine crime, criminal behavior, social control and theories of justice.

* Describe the historical and developmental aspects of crime and justice in the United States. * Analyze the operations, policies, and procedures of the criminal justice system * Analyze the theories of crime and deviance and critique the effectiveness of their practical application to behavioral changes. * Explain the role of the criminal justice system in the administration of justice in the United States and other countries. * Discuss the ethical theories and the values that guide criminal justice professions. * Apply professional standards of writing and research to criminal justice issues.