In addition, criminal justice majors may go on to graduate school in fields such as social work, public policy, counseling, criminology, criminal justice or law. Students can concentrate on preparing for future graduate studies or applying sociological principles to the real world. Through their specialization, sociology students gain the ability to articulate societal values, become adept at analyzing sociological problems, and have the opportunity to suggest possible remedies to these problems. The criminal justice major gives students the opportunity to shape a program around individual interests such as corrections, law enforcement, the courts, and juvenile justice. Summer Jobs, Co-op experiences and Internships Sociology majors are encouraged to gain experience through practicum or research.
Students can do internships and fieldwork locally and with some federal agencies.
The Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice maintains connections with many social service agencies in the St. Louis area. Most internships are unpaid. Students also have the opportunity to participate in research and educational programs on social justice. Students do fieldwork with public and private agencies at the local, state, and federal level. Faculty are involved with research on relevant topics, including corrections, the death penalty, gangs, juvenile delinquency, teenage violence, and prisons.