Criminal Justice, Minor
Program overview
The Criminal Justice minor provides students with an interdisciplinary understanding of the criminal justice system and the social, legal, and institutional factors that shape crime and justice in society. The minor is designed for students pursuing bachelor’s degrees in related fields such as sociology, political science, psychology, history, communications, English, philosophy, economics, and other areas that intersect with issues of law, crime, and public policy.
Through courses in criminology, policing, courts, and criminal justice institutions, students gain insight into how the justice system operates and how laws and policies influence communities. The program encourages critical thinking about crime, social responsibility, and the role of justice institutions in promoting safety and fairness.
Students develop analytical, communication, and research skills that complement their primary field of study while gaining a broader understanding of criminal justice practices and policies. The minor provides valuable preparation for careers in law enforcement, public service, legal support, policy analysis, and community organizations, as well as for graduate study in criminal justice, law, public administration, or related disciplines.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Introduction to Criminal Justice
Criminology
Select one of the following courses:
Policing in American Society
Correctional Systems
American Criminal Courts
Select two CJ elective courses chosen with advisor’s consent
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PROGRAM LEARNING OBJECTIVES
PLO 1: Identify the function and interrelationships between the major components of the American criminal justice system.
PLO 2: Critically analyze key criminological theories.
PLO 3: Understand the relationship between theory and criminal justice policy.
PLO 4: Explain the impact of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and class on criminal justice outcomes.
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
Specialized centers offer students the opportunity to hear lectures by experts in the fields of criminal justice and sociology including personal testimonies, film screenings featuring Q&A’s with directors/actors/producers, book authors that discuss their recent research, world-renowned professionals working in criminal justice, and activists who are dedicated to fighting for social justice.
The Sociology and Criminal Justice Department houses three centers: Center for Crime and Popular Culture, Institute for Peace and Justice, and the Post Prison College Opportunities Program @ St. Francis College.
Qualified bachelor of criminal justice degree students seeking an additional academic challenge can participate in the St. Francis Honors Program, where students participate in a series of small, intensive seminars, trips, and other activities that lead towards a senior thesis.
Located in New York City, St. Francis College is also home to 15 national honor societies and its own Duns Scotus Honors Society which recognizes students for their academic and community achievements.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
👮 Law Enforcement & Public Safety
You will support community safety and crime prevention through roles in law enforcement agencies or public safety organizations.
⚖️ Legal & Court Support
You will assist legal professionals, courts, and public agencies in the administration of justice and legal processes.
🔒 Corrections & Rehabilitation
You will work with correctional institutions or community supervision programs that focus on rehabilitation and reintegration.
🕵️ Security & Investigative Services
You will help protect people, property, and organizations through roles in private security, investigations, or risk management.
🏛️ Government & Policy Support
You will assist public agencies or nonprofit organizations that develop programs and policies related to crime prevention and justice.
🎓 Graduate & Professional Study
You will strengthen your preparation for advanced study in criminal justice, law, public administration, criminology, or related fields.