Certificate in Criminal Justice

The Certificate in Criminal Justice (CCJ) is a specific sequence of courses for students wanting to learn about the dynamics of America's criminal and juvenile justice systems. CCJ studies focus on the causes of crime and delinquency, examine fundamental concepts underlying the practice of justice, and analyze the impact of crime on society. The undergraduate Certificate in Criminal Justice provides a comprehensive study of law enforcement, the legal system and corrections, the sociology of crime and the justice system—police, courts, and prisons.

Employment opportunities in the criminal justice field are expected to increase at a faster rate throughout the year. The Occupational Outlook Handbook reports that a more security-conscious society coupled with concerns about terrorism and drug-related crimes will influence this demand. Opportunities are expected to expand in prosecutors' offices, courts, private investigation firms, police forces, community and youth centers, correctional facilities, and social services agencies.

Upon completion of this program, graduates will be able to:

  • examine the functions of criminal law as it relates to the criminal justice system
  • identify the various roles and functions of the professional in the criminal justice system
  • describe the landmark cases that currently govern the rules of arrest, search, and seizure
  • describe the major theoretical explanations for crime and delinquency
  • demonstrate basic skills in law enforcement/corrections
  • understand and apply basic principles of human behavior

Those interested in careers in law enforcement, corrections, juvenile justice, or with the courts will find the CCJ curriculum invaluable to their future endeavors.

To acquire the CCJ, a student must complete six courses with a grade of "C" or higher; three Required Intro Courses, two Required Advanced Courses, and one Elective Course. At least one Intro Course must be completed prior to enrollment in an Advanced Course or an Elective Course.

Certificate Courses

Required Intro Courses

  • SOC 118 – Introduction to Criminal Justice
  • PSCI 233 – Introduction to U.S. Legal System
  • SOC 102 – Sociology of Social Problems

Required Advanced Courses

  • SOC 311 – Juvenile Delinquency
  • SOC 315 – Criminology

Elective Courses (select one):

  • HUSV 315 – Substance Abuse and Chemical Dependency
  • SOC 270 – Sociology of Deviance
  • SOC 271 – Law Enforcement and Society
  • SOC 299 – Domestic Violence
  • SOC 316 – White Collar Crime