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 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.
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Code | Title | Credits |
CJ-1020 | Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 |
CJ-2010 | Criminology | 3 |
Select one of the following courses: | 3 | |
CJ-2030 | Policing in American Society | |
CJ-2050 | Correctional Systems | |
CJ-3000 | American Criminal Courts | |
Select two CJ elective courses chosen with advisor’s consent | 6 | |
Total Credits | 15 |
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
CURRICULUM HIGHLIGHTS
Our SFC community is enhanced by the centers housed in the Sociology and Criminal Justice Department. The centers host an array of interdisciplinary guest speakers, journalists, practitioners, community activists, and research professionals. The centers are primary sponsors of the SFC Senior Lecture Series and regularly host events, film/documentary screenings, and seminars. The series brings together students, senior citizens, and other community members to explore historical and contemporary developments in sociology and criminology.
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.