Criminal Justice (BS)
About the Criminal Justice Degree
Criminal justice is a broad field, encompassing everything from traditional work in local law enforcement, courts, and corrections to privately run non-profit intervention and prevention programs. Graduates from Fisher College’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program enter the workforce with a strong social science background that prepares them for traditional criminal justice careers, careers as crime analysts and policy analysts, and further education at the graduate level.
Criminal Justice Program Requirements
Learning Outcomes
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Discuss the development and philosophies of the disciplines of the criminal justice system as they relate to both adults and juveniles
- Describe and analyze the present day role, responsibilities, authority, and practices of the disciplines of the criminal justice system
- Demonstrate competency in understanding the nature of the relationship between and among the disciplines of the criminal justice system
- Explain the social and political forces that impact the criminal justice system, its practitioners, and its clients
- Analyze the theories of crime and deviance and critique the effectiveness of their practical application to behavioral changes
- Apply professional standards of writing and research to criminal justice issues
- Discuss the ethical theories and the values that guide criminal justice professions
- Demonstrate professional competencies to meet the needs of career opportunities and requirements for employment in the disciplines of the criminal justice system.
Criminal Justice Career Track
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program prepares students to enter a variety of careers that utilize the knowledge, skills, and experiences gained during their course of study. Although many graduates may wish to pursue careers in the more traditional fields of law enforcement, corrections, and the court system, students today can take advantage of a wealth of opportunities. Careers in research, crime analysis and computer forensics, are growing in popularity, as are careers that combine interests in criminal justice and psychology/human services, such as offender re-entry; intervention with at-risk youth; and legal advocacy for victims.
Take the Next Step
Program Snapshot
Online
Credits: 120
Term Length: 8-weeks
Typical Time to Completion*:
20 terms; 3 years, 4 months
On-Campus
Credits: 120
Semester Length: 15-weeks
Typical Time to Completion:
4 years
Degree Pathways
Students who have earned 30+ college credits are encouraged to inquire about the Degree Completion Program (DCP).
Students who have completed the Police Academy may be eligible for credits through Prior Learning Assessment.
*Based on continuous enrollment of two courses every term. Time to completion may be shorter based on eligible transfer credit or longer if course enrollment varies.
