Criminal Justice, B.A.

Shepherd University offers a program in Criminal Justice leading to a bachelor of arts degree.

The criminal justice system comprises institutions and agencies that operate to prevent and address criminal activity within society. The Criminal Justice program offers students a liberal arts education designed to enhance understanding of human behavior, culture, society, and community.

The purpose of the criminal justice program includes the following:

1. Students in the major examine the criminal justice system’s components, including investigations, law enforcement, the court system, and corrections.  
2. Courses in criminology, law, policing, corrections, and sociology help students develop as individuals and responsible citizens.  
3. Theoretical and applied learning courses build knowledge and skills applicable to a broad range of employment opportunities in criminal justice field.
4. The program will prepare students for employment in academic, governmental, non-profit, and law enforcement organizations through experiential learning, service and internship opportunities. 

Students enrolled in the major are also encouraged and prepared to pursue graduate studies. Dedicated to excellence in student learning, the Criminal Justice program provides students with a strong foundation in theory and practice, preparing them to think critically about issues of law, justice, and public safety while gaining the skills and experiences needed for meaningful careers and civic engagement. 

In the four-year curriculum for a major in criminal justice, students must also complete the Core Curriculum program, complete a concentration and a minor field of study, meet the 12-hour B.A. Foreign Language Requirement , and include at least 42 hours of courses numbered 300 and above in their program, for a minimum of 120 credits total, to meet graduation requirements for the bachelor of arts degree.