Criminal Justice/Criminology, B.A.

The Criminal Justice/Criminology major develops in students an understanding and appreciation of the various dynamics related to criminality, the law, and its enforcement. Grounded in an interdisciplinary approach to examining crime as a social phenomenon, the major combines an emphasis on theoretical learning with professional field-based education.

Criminal Justice/Criminology majors learn the theoretical foundations for comprehending the occurrence of criminality in  society. They receive professional instruction regarding the operating structures and processes of the various social agencies charged with the control of criminality in society, and they have the opportunity to research in greater detail the diverse issues related to criminality and the criminal justice system.

The Maryville student who majors in Criminal Justice/Criminology is prepared for a variety of career trajectories. For students interested in working within the criminal justice system upon graduation, the Criminal Justice/Criminology major prepares them for jobs in law enforcement, probation and parole, and community service. For students interested in pursuing a graduate degree, the Criminal Justice/Criminology major with its grounding in the social sciences has proven to be excellent preparation for future success in graduate school or law school.

To assist students in achieving their career goals, the Criminal Justice/Criminology major offers a number of unique learning opportunities. The Criminal Justice/Criminology program maintains a programmatic partnership with the St. Louis County and Municipal Police Academy. Students who meet the entrance standards for the Academy and choose to pursue Academy training can use that experience to earn 13 hours of college credit toward completion of the major. Students who are interested in pursuing a law degree or other graduate degree may take advantage of the major’s senior seminar experience.  Students choosing this path for their major have the opportunity to work more directly with a faculty member in the development of an independent research project. In the project the student explores in greater detail an area of interest in the student’s chosen field of study. All students in the major are exposed to excellent learning opportunities in preparation for a career beyond graduation.

Students who do not pursue police academy training are required to complete the student practicum. This practicum provides students with a significant hands-on learning experience tied to various areas of criminal justice operation and assists them in making valuable contacts for future employment.

A minor is not required for the B.A. in Criminal Justice/Criminology.