Criminology and Criminal Justice (BS)

The University offers a bachelor of science (BS) in criminology and criminal justice.

The Criminology and Criminal Justice Program prepares students for careers in the fields of corrections, law enforcement, juvenile justice, and private security—and in other areas ranging from private security management to private investigation.

The program provides students with a rewarding academic experience in and out of the classroom.

• Coursework in the major covers the criminal justice system, criminal behavior, criminal law, criminal justice administration, and the relationship of these topics to the larger society.
• Specialized courses (or symposia) are offered to address specific needs and interests in areas such as homicide investigation, terrorism, and women and minorities in the criminal justice system.
• In addition, all students participate in internships with criminal justice agencies. These internships provide real-work experiences that can lead to jobs in the field following graduation.

Students benefit from classes taught by award-winning faculty who hold doctorates in criminal justice, jurisprudence, sociology, and psychology. Many have experience in the field as police and correctional administrators, prosecutors, probation officers, criminal investigators, correctional counselors and therapists, and criminal justice planners.

Facilities include two well-equipped laboratories for hands-on experience: a forensic laboratory for forensic investigations, and a cyber-laboratory for cyber security and intelligence investigations.

The School of Criminology and Security Studies sponsors activities and conferences that enable students to interact with other students and professionals in the field—and also sponsors a chapter of Lambda Alpha Epsilon, the national criminal justice professional fraternity. Additional opportunities are available through the School’s partnerships with agencies, universities, and organizations located in Indiana—and throughout the world.

In addition, the School participates in an annual career fair that enables students to explore employment opportunities with recruitment representatives from criminal justice agencies in Indiana—and throughout the United States.

Special Note: The Criminology and Criminal Justice Program is offered on the Terre Haute campus. The program is also offered via online learning.