Criminal Justice BS, Minor
What is Criminal Justice?
Interested in making communities safer while ensuring justice is fair for everyone? Criminal Justice is a field that explores how societies prevent crime, enforce laws, and maintain public safety. As a Criminal Justice student, you'll study the entire justice system – from investigating crimes and enforcing laws to understanding court procedures and rehabilitation programs. This field combines practical knowledge of law enforcement with important insights into human behavior, psychology, and social dynamics.
At MSU-Northern, you'll learn how criminal investigations really work (beyond what you see on TV), how our legal system functions, and how communities can prevent crime before it happens. Whether you're passionate about law enforcement, forensic investigation, or helping people rebuild their lives after being affected by crime, this program gives you the professional foundation to succeed.
Why Choose the Criminal Justice Program?
MSU-Northern's Criminal Justice program gives you the flexibility to earn your degree in a way that works for you, with both online and in-person classes. Our professors bring years of real-world experience from careers in law enforcement, investigations, and the justice system. You'll learn from professionals who have actually worked the jobs you're interested in, gaining practical insights alongside academic knowledge.
Our comprehensive curriculum covers essential areas like criminology, forensic science, law enforcement practices, and corrections. Through internships with local agencies, you'll gain valuable hands-on experience that employers look for. Whether you plan to enter law enforcement directly, continue to law school, or work in social services, our program prepares you for the next step in your career.
Criminal Justice: Bachelor of Science (BS)
- Best for students interested in law enforcement, corrections, legal studies, or public service.
- This program covers criminology, criminal law, and justice systems, preparing graduates for careers in policing, probation, courts, wildlife management law enforcement, and federal agencies, or for law school and graduate studies.
Criminal Justice: Minor
- Best for students in complementary majors, including Community Psychology, Biology, or Liberal Studies for students who want to enhance their understanding of the justice system.
- The minor explores crime theory, legal processes, and the roles of law enforcement and corrections, supporting careers in public service, legal advocacy, and wildlife conservation.
Here are some of the things you'll learn:
- Apply criminal law and justice system principles in real-world situations
- Conduct professional criminal investigations and evidence collection
- Analyze complex social issues affecting crime and public safety
- Develop effective crime prevention and community protection strategies
- Work with diverse populations in various justice system roles
- Think critically about challenges facing modern law enforcement
Put your knowledge into practice through hands-on experience with local law enforcement agencies, probation offices, and social service organizations. Our co-op program lets you work alongside professionals in the field, building real-world skills and professional connections. Whether you're studying online or in person, you'll learn from professors who share experiences from both rural and urban justice systems, giving you a complete picture of career possibilities in the field.
Our program stands out for its blend of flexibility and expertise. Study completely online, attend classes on campus, or combine both approaches to fit your needs. Our experienced faculty bring years of professional experience into every class, sharing real cases and practical insights you won't find in textbooks alone. Through immersive internships and hands-on learning experiences, you'll graduate ready to start your career or continue your education.
A Criminal Justice degree opens doors to meaningful careers where you can make a real difference in your community. Our graduates work in diverse roles across law enforcement, legal services, and community support.
This degree provides excellent preparation for law school or graduate programs in criminal justice, social work, or public administration. At Northern, we'll help you develop both the professional skills and academic foundation needed to succeed in this important field.
| Career | Description | Median Salary* |
|---|---|---|
|
Police Officer or Detective |
Enforces laws, maintains public order, investigates crimes, and apprehends suspects. | $74,910 |
| Border Patrol Agent | Monitors and secures national borders to prevent illegal entry and smuggling activities. | $63,000 |
| Conservation Officer | Enforces laws related to wildlife, natural resources, and environmental protection. | $57,500 |
| Probation Officer | Supervises offenders placed on probation instead of serving time in prison, ensuring compliance with probation terms. | $59,910 |
| Corrections Officer | Oversees individuals who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or who have been sentenced to serve time in jail or prison. | $53,300 |
| Forensic Science Technician | Collects and analyzes physical evidence from crime scenes to assist in criminal investigations. | $47,537 |
| Private Investigator | Conducts private investigations to gather information on legal, financial, or personal matters. | $47,628 |
| Victim Advocate | Provides support and assistance to victims of crime, helping them navigate the legal system and access necessary services. | $49,470 |
| Social Services Professional | Assists individuals and families in accessing social services and support to improve their well-being. | $50,000 |
| Drug Enforcement Officer | Specializes in combating drug-related crimes, often working for agencies like the DEA. | $77,210 |
| First Responder | Provides immediate assistance during emergencies, including police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel. | $50,310 |
| Law Enforcement Specialist | Focuses on specialized areas within law enforcement, such as cybercrime, homicide, or narcotics investigations. | $62,281 |
*Please note that the salaries provided here are for illustrative purposes only and are general estimates based on various data sources. Salaries can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and specific employer. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, consulting industry-specific reports or professional organizations is recommended.
Read about Brianna's Court Appointed Special Advocate experience
Read about how Wylie Novak became a lawyer
Academic Maps provide a clear semester-by-semester breakdown of the courses required to complete the program.
Criminal Justice BS
Criminal Justice Minor
Example Courses:
- Criminal Justice Ethics
- Introduction to Criminology
- Deviance and Social Control
- Fundamentals of Forensics
- Introduction to Corrections
- Sociology of Violence
- Victimology
Our Financial Aid team is here to support you in overcoming financial barriers and unlocking opportunities. Learn about scholarships, grants, loans, work study, and federal aid.
For estimated tuition/fees, residence hall rates and more, see the 2024-2025 Estimated Costs of Attendance document, and for detailed tuition and fee costs including course fees, see the Tuition and Fees page.