Criminal Justice Degree Online

Prepare for a career in today’s increasingly complex justice system.

The Criminal Justice program focuses on several components of the justice system:
how the criminal justice system is organized and operates
basic research methods for investigative purposes
philosophical, historical, and legal underpinnings of criminal justice

Both Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degrees are available. The Bachelor of Science degree includes an internship experience option and is designed to build research and policy analysis skills. The Bachelor of Arts degree provides students with a broad education that includes foreign language skills.

Graduate from Penn State Abington or transition to an upper-division location like University Park to complete a degree in Crime, Law and Justice.

Graduates have a wide range of career opportunities including: policing and investigations, security, social services, corrections, juvenile justice and law.

Contact: Dr. Gary Calore, 215-881-7591

CRIMJ 441 (US) JUVENILE LAW AND JUSTICE (3). Prerequisite: CRIMJ 100 or permission of the program
CRIMJ 407 VICTIMOLOGY (3)
CRIMJ 408 POLICE ADMINISTRATION (3). Prerequisite: CRIMJ 100, CRIMJ 210
CRIMJ 410 THE PENNSYLVANIA COURT SYSTEM (3). Prerequisite: CRIMJ 100, CRIMJ 220
CRIMJ 415 (PUBPL) DRUG CONTROL POLICY IN COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVE (3). Prerequisite: CRIMJ 100 or PL SC 001 or PL SC 014 or SOC 001
CRIMJ 423 SEXUAL AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE (3) Prerequisite: CRIMJ 100
CRIMJ 425 ORGANIZED CRIME (3) Prerequisite: CRIMJ 100, or permission of program
CRIMJ 426 SPECIAL OFFENDER TYPES (3) CRIMJ 100, or permission of program
CRIMJ 430 ALTERNATIVES TO INCARCERATION (3). Prerequisite: CRIMJ 100, CRIMJ 230
CRIMJ 431 OFFENDER AND PRISONER TYPES (3) CRIMJ 100, 113, 230 or permission of program
CRIMJ 436 (US) WOMEN IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM (3)
CRIMJ 462 COMPARATIVE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEMS (3)
CRIMJ 465 ETHICS IN CRIMINAL JUSTICE (3) CRIMJ 100, or permission of program
CRIMJ 494 RESEARCH TOPICS (1-12)
CRIMJ 497C COMPARATIVE PERSPECTIVES OF HOMICIDE AND OTHER ACTS OF VIOLENCE (3)
CRIMJ 563 CONCEPTS AND PRACTICES IN POLICE ADMINISTRATION (3). Prerequisite: permission of program
CRIMJ 564 ADMINISTRATIVE AND LEGAL ASPECTS OF CORRECTIONS (3). Prerequisite: permission of program
CRIMJ 565 COURTS IN THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM (3). Prerequisite: permission of program
CRIMJ 567 JUVENILE JUSTICE: ISSUES AND PRACTICE (3). Prerequisite: permission of program
CRIMJ 568 QUALITATIVE METHODS (3). Prerequisite: permission of program
CRIMJ 590 CRIMINAL JUSTICE COLLOQUIUM (1-3). Prerequisites: admission to program
CRIMJ 594 RESEARCH TOPICS (1-6). Prerequisite: admission to program
CRIMJ 595 INTERNSHIP (3 or 6). A student may sign up for a maximum of 280 field hours (3 credits) or for a maximum of 560 hours (6 credit hours). Prerequisites: 6 graduate credits in Criminal Justice or permission of program
CRIMJ 596 INDEPENDENT STUDY (3). Prerequisites: CRIMJ 500 or permission of program
CRIMJ 600 THESIS PREPARATION (6). Prerequisites: completion of required courses and permission of program

The general objective of the Law and Justice programs is to encourage a broadened critical understanding of the nature, role and function of our legal and judicial institutions and of the relationship between law and justice. That is, we do not aim to produce students who can talk about what the law is and apply it, but rather students who understand why the law is as it is, the implications of the law, the relationship of the law to economic, social and political ideas and conditions and so on. The multidisciplinary course offerings and the interdisciplinary character of the backgrounds of JURI faculty promote this objective. This approach clearly distinguishes us from Law Schools, whose mandate is to prepare students for the practice of law in accordance with guidelines established by the Law Society.

Most of our students aspire to a law related career, and many of our graduates succeed in pursuing such a career as evidenced in our survey of graduates. However, we do not aim to teach them the law per se or to prepare them for any particular legal career, but rather to provide them with the critical thinking, reading and writing skills which will allow them to pursue their career objectives. We also hope to provide a broader perspective and context than they may get from subsequent vocational training or legal education: to open their minds and broaden their horizons (paraphrasing quotations from graduates). To this end we do not limit ourselves to the teaching of black letter law, but rather look at law in an interdisciplinary context as a complex human and social phenomenon.

Law and Justice is both a multidisciplinary program, incorporating a discreet list of relevant courses from other departments and, interdiscilinary, with the core JURI courses being taught by faculty with backgrounds in both law and another discipline, including philosophy, political science and history.

Undergraduate law programs are unusual but growing in number across North America. A directory produced by the American Bar Association in 1995 listed forty eight such programs, including those at Laurentian, Carleton and York Universities.

That undergraduate law programs are unusual does not mean that their existence is not highly desirable for any university. The Smith Report of the Commission of Inquiry on Canadian University Education emphasized the importance to the “educated person” of good reading, thinking, and communication skills and of an understanding of moral codes - all things which a study of law is well suited to developing. Furthermore, law is one of the central normative phenomena of society and a major tool of social ordering. This has been recognized by SSHRC through the creation of a special research category, Law as a Social Phenomenon. It is true that in the recent past the study of law has been primarily restricted to law schools, but this has not always been so, nor should it be. Canadian law schools are professional schools whose curriculum is to a large extent controlled by the provincial law societies who control admission to the legal profession. As a consequence, at the teaching level a critical study of law as a social phenomenon is quite simply of very low priority. Traditionally this has also been true of law school research, a fact recognized in the Arthurs report, Law and Learning, a study commissioned by the Canada Council, although the situation in this respect is improving somewhat. Furthermore, to restrict the teaching of law to law schools is to restrict it to a small elite, to perpetuate the mystique of law and to prevent the general public from acquiring an understanding of the legal system by which they are governed. To argue that the study of law should be restricted to law schools is similar to arguing that the study of biology should be restricted to medical schools, or of people to schools of social work. Most high schools have now recognized the value of studying law and offer courses even at the OAC level.

The first year course is designed to provide our students with the background necessary to benefit from the interdisciplinary and critical perspectives of our programmes. Hence, in addition to introducing the student to the historical and institutional framework of our legal system, it includes a substantial legal theory component. Most of the second and third year courses focus on substantive areas of the law, beginning with JURI 2106 and 2107 which present a major division within substantive law between private and public law. An understanding of this distinction, founded in the theoretical underpinnings of our legal system, is fundamental to an understanding of the accessibility of legal remedies, the roles of various legal personnel, of the effectiveness of law in providing just solutions and so on. Other second and third year courses focus more closely on specific areas of the law, but while they teach black letter law they too are designed to present the social, historical and theoretical contexts for this law. In the fourth year required course we turn to a consideration of the legal institutions through which the substantive law is enforced, since the effectiveness of such institutions is a very significant measure of the social relevance of the legal system as a whole. The remaining fourth year selected topics courses permit faculty to pursue in greater depth topics introduced in earlier course or to introduce new substantive legal topics or ways of looking at the law, generally in the context of their personal research interests.

Courses on the Law and Justice course list from other departments enhance the students ability to assess the law within a broad social context. For example, in three native studies courses students can consider how well the law serves the needs of one segment of society, the native community; in the Philosophy of Law they delve more deeply into the theoretical justifications for law and legal systems; in Canadian Government and Politics they are exposed to the political context within which new laws are made; in Crime and Punishment they critique the effectiveness of the law in protecting society from aberrant behaviour; and in the Psychology courses they learn to understand the criminal mind.

aw and Justice is just one of several undergraduate programs offered through the Department of Justice Studies. Other program options include:
BA / BS in Criminal Justice
BA / BS in Justice and Ministry (Chaplaincy)
BA / BS in Law and Justice (Pre-law)
AA Online Leading to a BA / BS (2+2) Program
Minor in Criminal Justice
Minor in Justice and Ministry

Taylor University Fort Wayne combines faith-application with a stellar Justice Department to prepare students for ministry in law and justice. As a justice student, you are guided spiritually and intellectually toward the most powerful use of your skills. Through the spiritual formation we offer, you receive more than just a diploma. You attain fundamental skills and knowledge that are firmly placed within a reflective framework of Christian values.

At TUFW we are a community. Not just a college community. A Christ-centered community. We gather together to love God and to be accountable to him and each other. The teachings and principles of the Bible guide our personal and academic activities.

In each program this continues to be TUFW’s goal. A minor in the Law and Justice program makes this spiritual growth and formation a priority. This program was specifically designed as premier preparation for students planning to attend law school. It blends courses from justice education, English, political science, philosophy, business and economics to meet the expectations of law schools throughout the country.

Curriculum

Read this program’s curriculum guide.

Justice and Ministry is just one of several undergraduate programs offered through the Department of Justice Studies. Other program options include:
BA / BS in Criminal Justice
BA / BS in Justice and Ministry (Chaplaincy)
BA / BS in Law and Justice (Pre-law)
AA Online Leading to a BA / BS (2+2) Program
Minor in Criminal Justice
Minor in Law and Justice (Pre-law)

What do we mean when we say that Taylor University Fort Wayne is a “Christ-centered community?” We mean that following Christ’s example is central to our life together. With our Justice department, you will add to your academic knowledge while experiencing life in a Christ-centered community. Our program can prepare you for an influential and Godly life while living and growing in the company of fellow believers.

At Taylor University Fort Wayne we focus on expanding your calling. Spiritually and educationally. Here, spiritual reflection and fellowship combine with relevant classroom instruction and real-world application, ensuring that you prepare for your calling with a complete education.

Blending courses from Christian ministry and behavioral science, a Minor in Justice and Ministry is the only one of its kind in the country. This major provides excellent preparation for chaplains in corrections or law enforcement. Graduates may also pursue para-church and social service positions. The principle of restorative justice, providing rehabilitation to the offender and help for the victim, is the foundation of all that is discussed. Students in this minor will also benefit both academically and experientially by special partnership with Prison Fellowship.

Curriculum

Read this program’s curriculum guide.

Law and Justice is just one of several undergraduate programs offered through the Department of Justice Studies. Other program options include:
BA / BS in Criminal Justice
BA / BS in Justice and Ministry (Chaplaincy)
AA Online Leading to a BA / BS (2+2) Program
Minor in Criminal Justice
Minor in Justice and Ministry
Minor in Law and Justice (Pre-law)

The Law and Justice degree is designed for those wanting to attend law school. This degree is designed to provide students with a broad based liberal arts education, which most law schools desire of their applicants. The Bachelor of Arts degree is particularly appropriate because this degree requires a two year proficiency in a foreign language, a much needed skill for lawyers today. The Bachelor of Science degree includes at least 12 hours of science classes. Students in the TUFW Law and Justice program will be better equipped than most pre-law students because:
The degree requires several law and criminal justice courses, providing a thorough understanding of the criminal justice system.
There is an emphasis on the Judeo-Christian basis of the law.
There is the opportunity to do real work with attorneys.
Students are prepared for what to expect in law school, doing actual law school assignments.

Curriculum

Read this program’s curriculum guide.

Career Opportunities
Attorney
Prosecutor
Defense Council
Judge
Court Lawyer

Criminal Justice is just one of several undergraduate programs offered through the Department of Justice Studies. Other program options include:
BA / BS in Justice and Ministry (Chaplaincy)
BA / BS in Law and Justice (Pre-law)
AA Online Leading to a BA / BS (2+2) Program
Minor in Criminal Justice
Minor in Justice and Ministry
Minor in Law and Justice (Pre-law)

Law Enforcement Track
There are few professions that provide Christians with such a marvelous opportunity to show love and mercy. Police officers are almost universally the first persons to an accident/tragedy, and how well they do their jobs will have dramatic consequences for offenders, victims, and their families. The Bachelor of Arts degree is particularly appropriate because this degree requires a two year proficiency in a foreign language, a highly desired skill in law enforcement. The Bachelor of Science degree includes at least 12 hours of science classes. A Christian is the perfect person for law enforcement work for several reasons:
It is important to deal with victims of crime and tragedy with compassion.
It is important to deal with suspects and offenders in a respectable and professional manner.
It is important that police officers not abuse their power.It is important that police officers are ethical and have the respect of the community.

Corrections Track
Corrections officials are professionals who are charged with protecting society by assisting restoration of victims, communities and offenders. The Bachelor of Arts degree is particularly appropriate because this degree requires a two year proficiency in a foreign language. The Bachelor of Science degree includes at least 12 hours of science classes. This ability greatly enhances the ability of the professional to respond to client needs. A Christian is the perfect person for corrections work for several reasons:
It is just to remove those who have victimized citizens.
It is important to make sure victims are supported and restored.
It is merciful to assist offenders to return to a productive role in society.
Taxpayers should expect cost-effective decisions about their tax dollars.

Curriculum

Read this program’s curriculum guide.

Career OpportunitiesCase Management
Criminal Investigation
Juvenile Services Officer
Police Officer
Probation/Parole Officer
Security Specialist
Special Agent
State Trooper
Victim Advocate
Warden

The B.A. in Law and Society is an interdisciplinary program that examines the role of law as it permeates social, political, and economic institutions. The complex relation of law and justice, broadly conceived, is the central consideration in this program of study. Drawing on the social sciences and humanities, this curriculum offers an historical and international perspective on legal issues. Both undergraduate majors can be considered prelaw majors.

Admission to the Program

New freshman and transfer students are admitted through the Office of Admissions. Current students in good academic standing who wish to transfer into the department or develop a double major may do so through a formal declaration of major.

University Requirements
A total of 120 credit hours
Six credit hours of college writing
Three credit hours of college mathematics or the equivalent by examination

General Education Requirements
A total of 30 credit hours, consisting of one foundation course and one second-level course in an approved sequence from each of the five curricular areas. No more than 6 credit hours may be taken in the same discipline.

Major Requirements
A total of 48 credit hours with grades of C or better

Course Requirements

Twenty-one credit hours from the following courses:
ECON-100/ECON-100G Macroeconomics 4:1 (3)
JLS-103 Critical Issues in Justice (3)
JLS-110/JLS-110G Western Legal Tradition 2:1 (3)
JLS-225 American Legal Culture 2:2 (3) or
JLS-310 The Legal Profession (3)
JLS-307 Justice, Law, and the Constitution (3)
JLS-380 Introduction to Justice Research (3) (prerequisite: STAT-202 Basic Statistics)
JLS-402 Comparative Systems of Law and Justice (3)
Twenty-seven credit hours must be completed from the following with at least 15 credit hours at the 300 level or above, with one course from each of the five cluster areas:

Law and the Justice System
JLS-235/JLS-235G Justice in America 4:1 (3)
JLS-200/JLS-200G Deprivation of Liberty 4:2 (3)
JLS-308 Justice, Morality, and the Law (3)
JLS-309 Justice and Public Policy (3)
JLS-310 The Legal Profession (3) (if not taken for requirement above)
JLS-342 Judicial Administration (3)
JLS-343 Issues in Civil Justice (3)
JLS-382 Determination of Fact (3)
JLS-420 Legal Reasoning (3)
JLS-504 Comparative Criminology and Criminal Justice (3)
JLS-541 Law and Authoritarian Societies (3)
JLS-551 Comparative Justice Studies Abroad (3-6)
SIS-322 Human Rights (3)

Sociology and Anthropology
ANTH-215/ANTH-215G Sex, Gender, and Culture 3:2 (3)
ANTH-336 Social Structure (3)
ANTH-431 Taboos (3)
JLS-220/JLS220G Cities and Crime 2:2 (3)
JLS-303 Drugs, Alcohol, and Society (3)
JLS-454 Violence in America (3)
JLS-517 Victimology (3)
JLS-535 Gender and the Law (3)
SOCY-350 Social Problems in a Changing World (3)
SOCY-351 Race and Ethnic Conflict: Global Perspectives (3)

Political Science/Government
GOVT-215/GOVT-215G Civil Rights and Liberties /S 4:2 (3)
GOVT-305 Modern Political Thought (3)
GOVT-321 Congress and Legislative Behavior (3)
GOVT-335 Democratization, Participation, and Social Movements (3)
GOVT-350 Constitutional Law I: Powers and Federalism (3)
GOVT-352 Law and the Political System (3)
PHIL-221 Philosophy, Politics, and Society (3)
SIS-321 International Law (3)

Economics
ACCT-201 Legal Issues in Business (3)
ECON-200/ECON-200G Microeconomics 4:2 (3)
ECON-302 Comparative Economic Systems (3)
ECON-309 Public Economics (3)
ECON-317 Political Economy (3)
ECON-320 History of Economic Ideas (3)
ECON-325 Social Choice and Economic Justice (3)
JLS-513 Law and Economics (3)
JLS-525 Law and the Corporate World (3)

Psychology
JLS-215/JLS-215G Violence and Institutions 4:2 (3)
JLS-301 Drugs, Consciousness and Human Fulfillment (3)
JLS-333 Law, Psychology, and Justice (3)
JLS-352 Psychiatry and the Law (3)
PSYC-205/PSYC-205G Social Psychology 4:2 (3)
PSYC-215/PSYC-215G Abnormal Psychology and Society 4:2 (3)
PSYC-240/PSYC-240G Drugs and Behavior 5:2 (3)

University Honors Program

Students in the University Honors Program have the opportunity to graduate with University Honors in the major. To do so, students complete 12 hours of advanced-level Honors work in the department and, upon departmental recommendation, graduate with University Honors in the major. The department’s Honors coordinator advises students in the University Honors Program regarding departmental options. See the section on the University Honors Program in this catalog for further details.

For students with another major.

LE 253 Probation, Parole & Community Corrections (3)
LE 263 Introduction to Criminal Law and Justice (3)
LE 273 Criminal Procedures and Evidence (3)
LE 343 Criminalistics and Crime Scene Investigations I (3) PSY 383 Forensic Psychology (3) Law enforcement and/or psychology electives (12)

TOTAL IN MINOR PROGRAM: 27 HRS.

St. Joseph’s College offers a B.A. degree in Criminal Justice on both campuses ( and ). it Criminal Justice prepares students for law school, graduate school and research. The program also offers a great base the student who is ready to devote him/herself to the criminal justice system as a practitioner or leader. The program contains a unique curriculum in which students choose one of three tracks of study to go along with courses in criminal justice.

Juvenile Justice

Mental Health

Law and Justice

By choosing a track, students specialize in a specific field while obtaining an understanding of the nature of crime and criminal law in society and the inner workings of the police, courts and corrections. Together these components make up the elements of the criminal justice system. One aspect of the program is the requirement of an internship for students to attain experience in the field and enhance their prospects for employment.

Agencies with whom St. Joseph’s currently places students include: