Criminal Justice

The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice introduces students to the many aspects of the nation’s complex criminal justice system, while giving them a strong background in the liberal arts. The Criminal Justice major investigates causes and prevention of criminal behavior, as well as the meaning and application of justice, the legal process, law enforcement, court management and correctional treatment. A minor in Criminal Justice is also available.

This degree program is designed to provide theoretical and practical knowledge for students interested in professional careers in traditional criminal justice fields such as corrections, courts, police and probation; in administrative positions in the field of criminal justice and law enforcement; and in law and paralegal occupations. Unlike many other criminal justice programs offered at other institutions, this program weaves aspects of diversity matters across the curriculum and retains a humanistic approach to studying crime, justice, punishment, legal procedures, and enforcement. Additionally, the Criminal Justice Capstone, as well as other program experiences, provides the opportunity for students to engage in individualized and meaningful criminal justice research with a faculty mentor.

A distinguishing element to the Rockhurst University Criminal Justice program is that students have the option to pursue either a minor or certificate in paralegal studies. This option provides students with an additional professional credential: a Certificate in Paralegal Studies. As the profession has become increasingly more recognized and diversified, paralegals with a variety of skills and backgrounds are being sought. Therefore, the certificate is complementary to a major in Criminal Justice. Students have other minor courses of study available to them as well.

Program Goals

• Understand the historical, philosophical, and organizational foundation of the criminal justice system  

• Understand the etiology and prevalence of crime 

• Demonstrate effective critical thinking and analysis skills

• Demonstrate knowledge of the scientific method

Student Learning Outcomes

• Students will identify the three primary components of the criminal justice system.

• Students will evaluate sources of knowledge.

• Students will describe empirically supported correlates of criminal behavior. 

• Students will compare rationales for punishment.

• Students will compare criminological theories.

• Students will create a valid research project.
   

For additional information, see Criminal Justice, B.A. , Criminal Justice, B.A.: Forensic Track , Criminal Justice Minor . Also see Paralegal Studies Minor  and Paralegal Studies Certificate .

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