Criminal Justice Administration, B.S.

Why Study Criminal Justice Administration?

A criminal justice administration degree provides a transformative education that imparts the durable skills and knowledge necessary to enter and advance in a wide range of careers, from law enforcement to court administration and beyond. The holistic curriculum is designed to reflect current industry practices while helping students understand the reasoning behind policies and procedures across agencies. Students gain career-ready, hands-on experience through original research and complete a capstone project, while also selecting an area of concentration that aligns with their interests and career goals. Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration not only prepares graduates for academy training and entry-level work but also positions them for early promotions and seamless transition into graduate studies.

What You’ll Learn

• Criminal justice administration courses provide a foundational understanding of the U.S. criminal justice system, including its structure, functions, and key components such as law enforcement, courts, and corrections. You’ll also explore how the American system compares to justice systems in other countries and the increasing role of private agencies.
• The criminal justice administration degree covers the principles of criminal law, including criminal responsibility, legal defenses, and the rules of evidence. This knowledge is essential for understanding how laws are applied and upheld throughout the justice process.
• As you advance in the degree program, you’ll develop skills in research and analysis specific to criminal justice and criminology. You’ll learn how to create impact by implementing original data-gathering tools, comparing your findings to published research, and presenting your conclusions through a formal research proposal. Durable skills imparted by the liberal education curriculum prepare you to engage, support, and lead teams.
• Students who choose the law enforcement concentration explore the history of policing and investigative techniques, preparing for purposeful careers in law enforcement, private security, and investigations. The corrections concentration focuses on correctional systems, probation, and parole, equipping students for roles in incarceration facilities, community supervision, and rehabilitation programs.
• Park’s bachelor’s in criminal justice administration provides two options for advanced, career-oriented practical experience: an internship with a criminal justice agency in the public or private sector, or a writing project course for those already employed in the field. The project course makes space in student’s real lives and work by supporting skill development through designing and analyzing work-related projects, with department chair approval required for substitution.