The program focuses on the application of psychological and sociological theories to understand criminal behavior, with emphasis on conducting and critiquing social science research as it applies to policies impacting the criminal justice system. Coursework includes eight core courses including introductory sociology, psychology, criminal justice, and explorations in the behavioral sciences, the junior experience, and the senior capstone, as well as a two-semester sequence in research methods and data science. Additionally, students must pick two courses focusing on practice within the criminal justice system and three courses highlighting theoretical perspectives common in the study of criminology. At completion of this major, students should be able to: A) explain, both orally and in writing, the criminal justice system, specifically the roles of citizens, police, corrections and courts; B) explain theoretical accounts of crime from a variety of perspectives, including biological, psychological, sociological, and critique those accounts; C) utilize appropriate tools, techniques, and data sources for empirical analysis; D) explain contemporary issues in criminal justice, including the roles of race, class, and gender.
The major also requires a junior experience designed to emphasize a more hands-on study of issues related to criminology, providing students with a high impact experience that will transfer to postgraduate opportunities for employment or further study. Completing at least three credits in one of the following courses will satisfy junior experience: BSC 370 , BSC 371 , BSC 372 .
Coursework in biology, chemistry and computer science are strongly recommended. In addition, we expect students to work closely with their advisors to choose courses in the areas of language, science, mathematics, business and communications that further their professional development.
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