Program Overview
Sacred Heart University's Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice provides a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, preparing students for careers in law enforcement, legal studies, security, and more. The program features an internship, study abroad opportunities, and membership in the Alpha Phi Sigma Honor Society. Graduates are well-equipped for employment in various criminal justice settings and have a high rate of success in graduate school and professional development.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at Sacred Heart University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system. The program prepares students for careers in law enforcement, legal studies, security, and more.
Objectives:
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system
- Gain real-world experience through an internship at a public or private criminal justice agency
- Take courses in the areas of corrections, law enforcement, legal studies, and security
- Learn to apply scientific methods in conducting research
- Enhance critical thinking skills
- Learn to apply criminological theory and evaluate policy and law
- Have the opportunity to join Alpha Phi Sigma, the National Criminal Justice Honor Society
- Have the opportunity to study abroad
Outline:
Program Content:
The program covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Causes of crime
- Nature of serial killers and the work of criminal profilers
- Terrorism
- Capital punishment
- Criminal law
- Policing
- Corrections
- Private security
Structure:
The program consists of 120 credit hours, including:
- 36 credit hours of core courses
- 30 credit hours of concentration courses
- 24 credit hours of electives
- 12 credit hours of internship
Course Schedule:
The program can be completed in four years of full-time study or five years of part-time study. The course schedule is flexible, allowing students to take courses at their own pace.
Individual Modules:
The program includes the following modules:
- Core Courses: These courses provide students with a foundation in the criminal justice system.
- Concentration Courses: These courses allow students to specialize in a particular area of criminal justice, such as law enforcement, corrections, or legal studies.
- Electives: These courses allow students to explore their interests and develop their skills.
- Internship: The internship provides students with real-world experience in the criminal justice field.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods:
Students are assessed through a variety of methods, including:
- Exams
- Quizzes
- Papers
- Presentations
- Projects
Assessment Criteria:
Students are assessed on their:
- Knowledge of the criminal justice system
- Critical thinking skills
- Writing skills
- Presentation skills
- Research skills
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Case studies
- Simulations
- Role-playing
Faculty:
The program's faculty are experts in the field of criminal justice. They have a wealth of experience in teaching, research, and practice.
Unique Approaches:
The program offers a number of unique approaches to teaching criminal justice, including:
- Internship Program: The internship program provides students with real-world experience in the criminal justice field.
- Study Abroad Program: The study abroad program allows students to study criminal justice in a different country.
- Alpha Phi Sigma Honor Society: The Alpha Phi Sigma Honor Society is a national honor society for criminal justice students.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
Graduates of the program are prepared for a variety of careers in the criminal justice field, including:
- Law enforcement
- Security management
- Corrections
- Crime prevention
- Law
- Victim assistance
- Policy making
Opportunities:
Graduates of the program have the opportunity to work in a variety of settings, including:
- Department of Homeland Security
- Municipal or state police departments
- Correctional system
- Probation system
Outcomes:
Graduates of the program have a high rate of employment in the criminal justice field. They are also well-prepared for graduate school and other professional development opportunities.
Other:
Benefits of a Flexible Course of Study:
The program offers a flexible course of study, allowing students to take courses at their own pace. This is ideal for students who are working full-time or have other commitments.
Dual Degree Program Options:
Sacred Heart University offers dual degree programs that allow students to earn a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in five years. This is a great option for students who want to advance their careers in the criminal justice field.