Criminal Justice Major

A criminal justice major educates students in the scientific study and application of law to crime and delinquency. Criminal justice focuses on causation, definitions, and prevention of crime as well as legal processes, treatment and rehabilitation of criminals. A criminal justice major is an interdisciplinary field that draws from the fields of psychology, sociology, economics, political science, urban studies, history and law.

Students pursuing criminal justice should be well prepared for careers in law enforcement and prevention or law. Many colleges and universities are offering criminal justice to prepare students for roles in helping cope with the increasing consequences crime is placing on society. As this increases, society will need more community resources to aid in the education, prevention and investigation of crime.

Specializations in a criminal justice major may be available, depending on what school it is taken at. This may provide an opportunity to specialize in criminology, corrections or juvenile corrections. Students interested in criminal justice will need to be honest, have integrity, good judgment, and a sense of responsibility. Being analytical and observant will be beneficial as well.

Core classes in criminal justice may include criminal investigation, evidence and forensic law. Research methods, political science, psychology, sociology, law and profiling courses will be taught as well. Speak with a college career center or adviser about elective courses that will be valuable for employment and pursuing interests. Internships and jobs are often available from career centers as well. Criminal justice will explore issues like what punishments are cruel and unusual and whether drug criminals be treated in prison or drug rehabilitation facilities. Upon completion of a criminal justice major, several careers are available. Training received will be beneficial in positions like arson investigation, working for the Central Intelligence Agency, being a police officer, parole officer, or victim advocate.

Criminal Justice Education Opportunities

Criminal justice is growing in popularity as more students realize the benefits this degree can have when pursuing law and crime-related careers. These degrees are available at the associate’s, bachelor’s, and graduate level. Most law enforcement careers will require at least some college education so many students pursue a two-year program first. After completion of that degree there may be an option to work while continuing education further. Criminal justice programs are available at both traditional and online colleges. This makes career training possible for all types of students.

When pursuing online courses always make sure that the college is appropriately accredited and that credits will transfer to another school. When considering going back to college, speak with a member of the admissions department to discuss admissions requirements. Check to be sure that the school offers the criminal justice major. In general, a high school diploma or equivalent will be necessary and there may be minimum standardized test scores required. Online colleges will offer greater flexibility in classes and it is for this reason that many students are taking these courses. Students who work full time, returning students, or traditional students taking summer courses are all finding the convenience of these classes beneficial to their degree pursuits.