The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program focuses on the study of the criminal justice system and its component parts, as well as the causes and consequences of crime. The degree program stresses an integrated view of the criminal justice system, highlighting relationships among system components in service provision and how the justice system influences and is influenced by other societal institutions. The curriculum provides students with a theoretical knowledge base in studies of crime and criminal justice, focusing on examining the system and its parts, as well as the roles of victims and offenders. The curriculum also provides students with a liberal arts education that focuses on basic skills, such as the abilities to read critically, write clearly, speak effectively and think analytically. The curriculum is broadly structured to meet the academic needs of pre-professional students, those already employed in the wide range of agencies that compose the criminal and juvenile justice systems, and those pursuing graduate education.

The Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice program focuses on the study of the criminal justice system and its component parts, as well as the causes and consequences of crime. The program stresses an integrated view of the criminal justice system, highlighting relationships among system components in service provision and how the justice system influences and is influenced by other societal institutions. The curriculum provides students with a theoretical knowledge base in studies of crime and criminal justice, focusing on examining the system and its parts, as well as the roles of victims and offenders. The curriculum provides students with a liberal arts education that focuses on basic skills, such as the abilities to read critically, write clearly, speak effectively and think analytically. The curriculum is broadly structured to meet the academic needs of pre-professional students, those already employed in the wide range of agencies that compose the criminal and juvenile justice systems, and those pursuing graduate education

The Ph.D. in Criminal Justice and Criminology program is designed to train researchers and teacher-scholars in criminal justice and criminology. The program provides intensive one-on-one mentorship, a flexible curriculum, and core teaching and research skills that enable graduates to excel in university settings as well as research think tanks. Current and former doctoral students are involved in presenting their research at regional and national conferences. Faculty members in the department have involved doctoral students in their research projects, resulting in numerous publications with students. In addition, graduate students help plan and attend research colloquia and participate in student governance.

The online master’s degree program in criminal justice administration strengthens core leadership abilities and broadens knowledge of the strategies necessary to address rapidly emerging issues in criminal justice systems. The degree combines courses in criminal justice and criminology with principles and practices in public management.

The degree prepares you to:

• Lead and manage in criminal justice systems in democratic societies.
• Understand, analyze and synthesize research on crime and criminal justice policy.
• Think critically to solve problems and make decisions that affect short- and long-term outcomes for the institutions you lead.
• Articulate and apply a set of ethical principles in the criminal justice system that comports with democratic values and respect for human rights.
• Communicate and interact productively with a diverse and changing workforce and citizenry.

Crime and criminal justice are at the forefront of national policy and practice. The increasing emphasis on professional preparation in criminal justice careers places additional academic demands on the in-service professional. To meet this need, Georgia State’s Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology offers a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science degree in criminal justice, as well as a Doctor of Philosophy degree in criminal justice and criminology.