A Criminal Justice Degree Prepares You for a Career in Law Enforcement and Courts
The criminal justice system is designed to ensure the safety and security of society, prevent future crimes, and rehabilitate offenders. It is divided into two subsystems: the law enforcement and the court systems. Each has its own specific duties and functions.
The law enforcement subsystem investigates and arrests offenders and brings their cases to the court for resolution. In addition, law enforcement works with the parole officer after the offender is released from prison. Law enforcement officials need high physical fitness and fast, accurate reflexes. They also need to be knowledgeable about the law and their responsibility to uphold it.
The court subsystem handles the administration of justice, ranging from civil courts to specialty courts. It is an integral part of the justice system because it is a venue for disputes and legal proceedings. Various types of courts, including adult and juvenile criminal courts, are used.
Prosecutors are responsible for presenting evidence in court. During the trial, the police may also offer their testimony. Depending on the type of crime committed, the severity of the offense, and the nature of the offender, the punishment may vary. Often, the offender will be given probation, which includes regular checks with a probation officer and community service hours.
A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice prepares students to enter the field as a law enforcement officer. Those with https://brescia.uwo.ca/undergraduate/criminal_justice.php a criminal justice degree may also pursue a career in rehabilitative services, such as probation. Those who are interested in becoming social workers, forensic scientists, and educators should also consider a criminal justice degree. Many colleges and universities offer bachelor’s and master’s degrees in criminal justice. Some even offer a combined BS in Criminal Justice and JD in Law program.
As a criminology major, you will study a range of topics, from the law to criminal behavior and the legal system. You’ll also have an opportunity to participate in faculty research. Your coursework will include courses on analyzing and evaluating public policy, digital security risks, and the sociological issues that lead to criminal activity. While most courses are focused on quantitative and qualitative research, you’ll also get an education in ethics, the effects of race, gender, and sexuality on criminal justice policy, and the role of religion in criminal justice.
A criminology major also teaches you how to effectively communicate your thoughts and ideas. Through a series of specialized courses, you’ll learn to use a variety of theories and research methods in your own projects. You’ll also have the opportunity to engage in transformative internships in New York City and other cities. These experiences can help build your resume and give you a new perspective on the criminal justice system.
The criminology course focuses on the factors that contribute to criminal behavior and the ways in which those factors can be analyzed. It also covers the methods of criminological research.
You’ll also have the opportunity to take a forensic science course. Using a scientific approach, you’ll develop your skills as a crime lab analyst or a forensic science tech.