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. Students complete the the major’s senior seminar experience, where they 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
Student in interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement, should view the Criminal Justice/Criminology, B.A. with Police Academy Training catalog page.
A minor is not required for the B.A. in Criminal Justice/Criminology.
