Criminal Justice (B.S.)

45 hours, minor required

The degree provides an academic program for those students interested in learning about the institutions, laws, and public policies of local, national, and global governance. It encompasses a broad theoretical and substantive survey of governance institutions, laws, and public policies. Students will be prepared for entry-level public service careers, law school, and many graduate programs in public policy, political science, public administration, and political management.

An OC graduate with a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice will:

Identify ways in which oppression, privilege, discrimination, and social and economic disadvantage contribute to inequalities and injustices within criminal justice systems.
Demonstrate an understanding of the origins of criminal behavior, society’s response to crime, and the consequences of crime to our society, utilizing multiple perspectives.
Articulate ethical implications of decision-making in a professional capacity.
Develop and demonstrate sufficient critical self-awareness to understand the influence of personal biases and values when interacting with diverse groups.
Demonstrate an understanding of qualitative and quantitative research methods to collect and analyze data, including basic introductory statistical concepts.
Demonstrate an understanding of selected case law and procedures outlined by the United States Constitution and Bill of Rights for criminal procedure.
Demonstrate an understanding of the adult and juvenile justice systems as they relate to corrections and alternative corrections at various levels of government.
Demonstrate an understanding of the role of community policing, as well as basic police procedures.

Students must complete a minimum of 122 hours including the major, core, and minor if required. Elective hours may be needed to reach 122 hours.

36 HOURS FOUNDATION