Help Protect Others: Pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice
Do you have an inquisitive mind? Do crime investigation shows intrigue you? Are you
passionate about social justice? Choosing to major in criminal justice may be perfect
for you.
At South Carolina State University, our Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree
takes a deep dive into the study of crime, its causes, and how our society reacts
to it. Our criminal justice degree will provide you with a deep understanding of three
primary components of the criminal justice system: law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
Through studying criminal justice topics of interest to you — as well as experiential
learning opportunities in the community — you’ll be prepared for a career path in
law enforcement, investigating, corrections, forensics, crime prevention, customs,
government agencies and more.
Criminal justice: Reality vs. TV
We all know popular television shows like “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation” and “Law
& Order” glamorize and exaggerate crime investigation for entertainment value. Reality-based
shows like “Cops” offer a more realistic view of law enforcement activities and a
career in criminal justice, but they focus on just a small portion of what law officers
do.
By selecting a major in criminal justice at South Carolina State, you’ll become an
expert in the law, courts, and corrections — preparing to be a real-world hero.
Method of Instruction
- Face-to-face
Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Program Highlights
Our criminal justice degree program prepares you for a career in criminal justice and provides you with a comprehensive understanding through a proven mix of coursework and experiential learning opportunities. While studying criminal justice at SC State, prepare to:
Gain real-world experience in the criminal justice field
In your senior year studying criminal justice, you’ll complete a valuable internship designed to develop your skills and insights in an area focusing on law, criminal justice administration, juvenile justice, crime and delinquency, crime prevention, corrections, law enforcement, security, or other options.
Choose your focus and kickstart your career
Through your major in criminal justice, you can choose classes to focus on an area of criminal justice that interests you — whether it’s law enforcement, forensic science, crisis management, corrections, and more. This will make you more marketable and help you focus your career path.
Join forces to connect and deepen your understanding
You’ll enjoy connecting with other students as you strengthen your understanding of the criminal justice field. Join the Alpha Phi Sigma Criminal Justice Honor Society, the National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice, or the Criminal Justice Club. Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice majors attend national conferences, participate in competitions, take field trips, participate in public service, and more.