Bachelor Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice

About

The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Saint Louis University incorporates an interdisciplinary perspective to examine the causes and correlates of criminal behavior and the institutions that respond to such behavior. A degree in criminology and criminal justice from SLU provides a comprehensive academic foundation into the nature of criminal offending, victimization, law enforcement, court administration, the law, and both community and institutional corrections. Consistent with Saint Louis University’s Jesuit tradition, the CCJ program seeks to strengthen the criminal justice systems and, more importantly, communities by focusing on the factors that cause crime and violence and on the humanity of victims, offenders and practitioners. This major is a good fit for students interested in legal studies, law enforcement at the local, state or federal levels and working with adults and/or juveniles in correctional settings, as well as those pursuing graduate education or a law degree. SLU's criminology and criminal justice curriculum covers a wide array of topics, including theories of crime, criminal justice ethics, law enforcement, corrections, legal procedures and criminal justice research. In addition, students tailor the major to their individual needs and interests by selecting from elective courses. The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Criminal Justice requires a minimum of 120 credits for graduation. The program offers coursework that provides students with a foundation for understanding the causes and correlates of crime and the systems that respond to criminal and delinquent behavior. The program’s unique focus on human justice supports students’ understanding of the humanity of all involved in the justice system, including victims, offenders and practitioners. Through rigorous academic coursework, students become educated consumers of information and research that can be applied to justice settings.  

Career Path 

Graduate career path includes Police Officer, Detective/Investigator, Correctional Officer, Border Security Agent, Probation Officer, Parole Officer, Court Security Officer, Crime Scene Technician, Legal Assistant (Criminal Law Focus), Court Clerk, Victim Advocate, Criminal Court Liaison, Juvenile Justice Specialist, Bailiff, Litigation Support Specialist, Case Management Assistant, Policy Analyst (Criminal Justice Focus), Public Safety Program Coordinator, Community Development Specialist (Justice), Legislative Research Assistant (Criminal Justice), Public Affairs Officer (Justice/Policy Focus), Homeland Security Specialist, Intelligence Analyst, Emergency Management Specialist,Research Assistant (Criminology/Justice Studies), Community Education Program Coordinator, Academic Advisor (Social Sciences), Curriculum Developer (Criminal Justice Programs), Teaching Assistant (Criminology/Justice Studies).