The University of Georgia's Criminal Justice program is a renowned and interdisciplinary field of study that examines the nature, extent, and causes of crime, as well as the societal responses to it. The program is housed within the Franklin College of Arts and Sciences and offers undergraduate and graduate degree options. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, corrections, and juvenile justice.
Overview of the Program
The University of Georgia’s Criminal Justice program is accredited by the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences and is one of the largest and most respected programs in the country. The program’s faculty includes renowned scholars and practitioners who have expertise in a wide range of areas, including criminology, law enforcement, corrections, and juvenile justice. Students in the program have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a crime lab and a mock courtroom, which provide hands-on learning experiences and opportunities for research and internship.
Undergraduate Program
The undergraduate program in Criminal Justice at the University of Georgia offers a Bachelor of Arts degree that requires 120 credit hours of coursework. The curriculum includes a combination of core courses, electives, and a capstone project. Core courses provide a foundation in criminology, law enforcement, courts, corrections, and research methods, while electives allow students to specialize in areas such as forensic science, terrorism, and cybercrime. The capstone project requires students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems and issues in the field.
| Courses | Description |
|---|---|
| CRJU 1100: Introduction to Criminal Justice | Overview of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections |
| CRJU 2100: Criminology | Theoretical perspectives on the nature, extent, and causes of crime |
| CRJU 3100: Research Methods in Criminal Justice | Introduction to research design, data collection, and statistical analysis in criminal justice |
Graduate Program
The graduate program in Criminal Justice at the University of Georgia offers a Master of Arts degree that requires 30 credit hours of coursework. The curriculum is designed to provide advanced knowledge and skills in areas such as criminological theory, research methods, and program evaluation. Students in the program can specialize in areas such as corrections, law enforcement, and juvenile justice, and have the opportunity to work with faculty on research projects and internships.
The graduate program is highly competitive, with admission limited to students who have a strong academic background and a demonstrated interest in the field. Applicants must submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement, and must meet the minimum GPA and test score requirements.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the University of Georgia’s Criminal Justice program have a wide range of career opportunities in the public and private sectors. Many go on to work in law enforcement, corrections, and courts, while others pursue careers in policy analysis, research, and advocacy. The program’s strong reputation and alumni network provide students with access to job opportunities and professional connections in the field.
Some potential career paths for graduates of the program include:
- Law enforcement officer
- Corrections officer
- Probation officer
- Policy analyst
- Researcher
- Advocate
What are the admission requirements for the undergraduate program in Criminal Justice?
+Admission to the undergraduate program in Criminal Justice at the University of Georgia requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 and completion of the University's core curriculum. Students must also submit transcripts and test scores, and meet the minimum admission requirements for the University.
Can I specialize in a particular area of Criminal Justice?
+Yes, the University of Georgia's Criminal Justice program offers a range of specializations, including corrections, law enforcement, and juvenile justice. Students can also pursue a certificate in areas such as forensic science and terrorism.
Research and Internship Opportunities
The University of Georgia’s Criminal Justice program provides students with a range of research and internship opportunities that allow them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems and issues. Students can work with faculty on research projects, participate in internships with law enforcement and corrections agencies, and engage in service-learning projects that address community needs and problems.
Some examples of research and internship opportunities available to students in the program include:
- Research projects on topics such as crime trends, policing strategies, and correctional programs
- Internships with law enforcement agencies, such as the Athens-Clarke County Police Department
- Internships with corrections agencies, such as the Georgia Department of Corrections
- Service-learning projects, such as working with at-risk youth or providing support to victims of crime
