The curriculum leads to the bachelor of arts degree. The mission of the department must be conceived as interdisciplinary in nature, since no traditional discipline covers the wide spectrum of expertise required. The undergraduate program addresses issues respecting the entire criminal justice system, from the nature of crime and delinquency to society's varied responses to crime. Such a focus includes the organization and operation of each of the functional components in the field. The department recognizes the value of internships.
Internships provide a direct learning experience, helping students combine theory and practice.
A maximum of 6 hours of internship may be used to satisfy requirements of the major or minor. Students may work with their advisers to plan other internships and should consult their advisers for further internship information. An application to major or minor in criminal justice is required. Acceptance requires at least 12 earned hours and a 2.25 higher education grade point average. The number of criminal justice majors and minors is limited.