Interested in studying the many aspects of the criminal justice system? Our program offers an overview of law enforcement, court systems, and the correctional systems to both the adult and traditional undergraduate students. We provide an evening and an online format for our adult learners and busy practitioners ready to complete their baccalaureate degree. Evening students can take their coursework on the main campus or Fort Jackson in Columbia, South Carolina. Traditional undergraduate students attend daytime classes on our main campus.
Curriculum
The Criminal Justice program provides students with a comprehensive liberal arts education and overview of the six major fields of criminal justice: law enforcement, corrections, court procedures, criminal investigation, administration and management, and criminal justice research. Our curriculum creates an awareness of the history of the criminal justice system through teaching theories of crime and criminal behavior, issues related to crime prevention and the rehabilitation of offenders, and concepts like the preservation and analysis of evidence.
Criminal Justice Curriculum
Student Opportunities and Experience
Courses are offered at the main campus in Orangeburg; at the Columbia at Fort Jackson location, and online. Adult learners may take classes online or in the evening setting, and traditional undergraduate students take classes during the day at the main campus.
Careers and Outcomes
The Criminal Justice degree prepares students to enter a variety of careers, including community supervision, law enforcement, court administration, community specialists, correctional officers, criminal and family law, and criminal investigations, etc. It also provides students a foundation for graduate study in criminal justice, criminology, and related areas.
Mission Statement and Learning Outcomes
Admissions Requirements
Registration for the Criminal Justice major is open to students in both the Department of Social Sciences for traditional undergraduate students and through the Department’s partnership with the Center for Professional and Continuing Studies. All undergraduates must seek admission through the University’s Office of Admission. Transfer students from any of the South Carolina Technical College System coursework are welcome.