In the United States, over 1.16 million professionals contribute to the maintenance of law and order in a wide variety of jobs across the criminal justice spectrum. Those interested in pursuing one of the many diverse career paths related to criminal justice often choose to obtain a degree in this field as an entry point for their training and knowledge.
A bachelor’s in Criminal Justice degree is a path of higher education that delves into the complex and intricate workings of the US legal system and prepares individuals for important roles within the criminal justice system.
What is a Criminal Justice degree?
A broad and multidisciplinary field that encompasses the study, application, and administration of laws, regulations, and policies within the context of the criminal justice system, a Criminal Justice degree is best suited for those interested in maintaining safe neighborhoods and social order, the prevention and investigation of crimes, and the rehabilitation of those who violate established laws.
Aspects of Criminal Justice
As mentioned, Criminal Justice includes a variety of careers and systems put in place to keep society functioning as safely and fairly as possible. The three biggest components of the criminal justice system include:
- Law Enforcement: This is the branch of the criminal justice system that is responsible for preventing, detecting, and investigating criminal activities. Police officers, detectives, and other law enforcement personnel play a major role in apprehending individuals suspected of committing crimes.
- Courts: The judicial branch of the criminal justice system is responsible for interpreting laws, deciding cases, and guaranteeing fair and impartial trials. Judges, attorneys, and a jury work together to administer justice, determining guilt or innocence and assigning appropriate penalties.
- Corrections: This branch of criminal justice deals with the rehabilitation and supervision of individuals convicted of crimes. Corrections officers, probation officers, and rehabilitation specialists contribute to the rehabilitation of offenders.
Areas of study for Criminal Justice degrees
The field of criminal justice is diverse, to say the least. Within the three categories explored above, there is a wide range of studies that you can pursue to fit your chosen career path. For example:
- Criminology: The scientific study of crime, criminal behavior, and societal responses to crime. Criminologists analyze crime patterns, causes, and effects to develop effective crime prevention and intervention strategies.
- Forensic science: The application of scientific methods to investigate crimes, including the collection, analysis, and interpretation of evidence. Forensic scientists provide crucial evidence that aids in criminal investigations and legal proceedings.
- Criminal law: The body of laws that define and regulate offenses against the public, establishing expectations of acceptable behavior. Lawyers and legal professionals in the criminal justice system work to apply the system fairly across the board.
- Juvenile justice: This part of the justice system deals with crimes committed by minors. Juvenile justice professionals work to rehabilitate young offenders and redirect them toward lawful behavior.
Objectives of Criminal Justice
All jobs within the criminal justice system work to protect people and make sure criminal behavior is stopped and handled correctly. This is done in four primary ways:
- Maintaining social order: Professionals both establish and maintain social order by deterring criminal behavior through laws and regulations.
- Protecting individuals and property: The system aims to protect individuals and their property by identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting those who threaten safety and security.
- Ensuring Fair Trials and Justice: Criminal justice professionals strive to provide fair and impartial trials, protecting the rights of both victims and defendants.
- Rehabilitation and reintegration: While far from perfect, the system aims to rehabilitate offenders, address root causes of criminal behavior, and facilitate reintegration into society.
Overall, criminal justice is a dynamic field full of individuals who play a crucial role in upholding the law and preserving social order by addressing criminal activities through prevention, investigation, legal proceedings, and rehabilitation efforts.
Interested in a career safeguarding your community? Learn more today!
What are the requirements for a Criminal Justice program?
For individuals wanting to join this influential workforce, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the entry requirements of a Criminal Justice program. The program typically demands meeting specific entry-level requirements such as:
- High school diploma or GED
- Application to chosen school
- Proof of residency: While not always required, documentation confirming residency status is often necessary for state schools and international students.
- SAT or ACT Scores
- Minimum GPA requirements
Education: in-person or online
Most Criminal Justice programs offer flexibility in terms of education. Students can begin their educational journey with either an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree, with a master’s in Criminal Justice and Human Security being a future educational option down the line.
Luckily, no matter where you live, many top-quality educational institutions offer hybrid and online classes to accommodate diverse student needs so you can make massive career moves from the comfort of your couch.
Curriculum
The curriculum of a Criminal Justice degree, like the career path itself, involves a diverse set of courses. While foundational courses for most degrees include basic English, math, and science, more specialized courses in Criminal Justice follow as students progress through their degrees.
At University of Bridgeport, we require the following specialized courses for our bachelor of Criminal Justice and Human Security students:
- Introduction to Criminal Justice
- Human Security
- Intro to Corrections
- Law Enforcement & Society
- Criminology
- Court Systems and Practices
Plus, our graduates get a firm knowledge base around ethical research practices as well as access to internships that prepare them for success in their chosen Criminal Justice career.
If you believe that a Criminal Justice and Human Security degree is right for you, apply to University of Bridgeport today.