CRIMINAL JUSTICE MAJOR
First launched in 2016, criminal justice is one of the most popular majors on campus. The program emphasizes corrections and law enforcement, and requires major courses that range from Juvenile Justice to Constitutional Law, and Criminal Evidence and Procedure to Community Based Corrections. Majors also take courses in psychology and history to gain a better understanding of the national debates on the American criminal justice and prison systems. Upon graduating, majors have the content knowledge and analytical skills to pursue careers in law enforcement; community corrections; and federal, state, and local agencies, such as the FBI, Alabama crime scene unit, and county sheriff’s office. Majors also might apply to graduate school and law school, opening the possibility of academic and legal-related careers.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the Criminal Justice major, students will be able to perform the following:
1. Discuss the evolution of the correctional system in the United States (Content).
2. Distinguish between criminal justice and corrections (Content).
3. Distinguish between parole and probation (Content).
4. Explain the legal issues and liabilities that relate to offenders and corrections personnel (Content).
5. Differentiate between public and private federal, state and local correctional systems (Content).
6. Analyze issues relating to corrections in scholarly writings (Critical Thinking).
7. Develop skills of critical analysis, criminological research, and writings (Critical Thinking and Communication).
8. Demonstrate knowledge of legal concepts and terminology (Content).
Program Outcomes
As a result of successful completion of the Criminal Justice Program, graduates will be able to perform the following:
1. Demonstrate the professional values essential to employment by the city, county, state, and federal agencies, as well as private facilities.
2. Find employment in the field of security of local, regional and national organizations.
3. Pursue graduate degrees in criminal justice or related fields.
Semester Plan
Included below is a sample semester-by-semester plan for a major in Criminal Justice.