Criminal Justice
If you're passionate about justice, want to help others, or dream of making a change in the legal system, Criminal Justice is the path for you.
Criminal Justice is all about understanding the law, the criminal justice system, and how societies deal with crime and punishment. Whether you’re interested in law enforcement, corrections, legal studies, or social justice, a degree in Criminal Justice prepares you to make a real impact in your community.
What is Criminal Justice?
Serve, protect, and make a difference. Criminal Justice combines legal theory with practical knowledge of policing, courts, corrections, and rehabilitation. You’ll explore crime prevention, criminal behavior, the legal process, and how the justice system operates in the real world. By the completion of your degree, you’ll have the skills to work toward fair, just, and effective solutions to complex issues in law enforcement and criminal justice.
What you'll study
You’ll dive into the core aspects of criminal law, criminology, and social justice. Depending on your major, you might study:
- Research methods in criminology and criminal justice
- Forensic science and research investigation
- Justice and rehabilitation
- Persuasion and advocacy
- Ethics in criminal justice
- Juvenile justice
NAU’s Criminal Justice programs emphasize both theoretical knowledge and hands-on coursework, with opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and interaction with professionals in the criminal justice field.
Career possibilities
Graduates in Criminal Justice often pursue careers that involve protecting communities, upholding the law, and ensuring justice. These roles can be found in law enforcement agencies, government organizations, nonprofits, and the court system.
Criminal Justice degrees offered at NAU
Ready to make a difference in the criminal justice system? Explore NAU’s degrees in Criminal Justice and Law to start your journey in this impactful field.
FAQs: Criminal Justice degree
Do I need to become a police officer or lawyer if I study Criminal Justice?
Not at all! A degree in criminal justice opens doors to a variety of careers, from law enforcement to corrections to social work. You can work in many areas of the criminal justice system without becoming a police officer or lawyer.
What’s the difference between Criminology and Criminal Justice?
Criminology focuses more on studying the causes of crime and criminal behavior. Criminal justice on the other hand, is about how crime is handled by the system: policing, courts, and corrections.
Is Criminal Justice a good fit if I want to work in law?
Absolutely. A Criminal Justice degree is a great foundation for law school or careers in legal support, such as becoming a paralegal or legal assistant.
Will I have opportunities for hands-on experience in this field?
Yes! Criminal Justice programs at NAU include internships with law enforcement agencies, the court system, and nonprofit organizations, plus opportunities to get involved in research and community-based projects.
What makes NAU’s Criminal Justice program unique?
NAU’s Criminal Justice program offers a balance of theory and practice, plus opportunities for internships, hands-on training, and interactions with local law enforcement and legal professionals.
Arizona's blend of urban, rural, tribal, and border communities provides students with exposures to a range of criminal justice systems and challenges. Students can intern with local, state, federal, and tribal agencies to increase exposure and understanding on topics ranging from tribal law enforcement to environmental law, and beyond.
What's next on your trail to NAU?
Find your home at NAU!
Looking for attainable and valuable degree programs? Searching for a community as unique as you are? Wishing for adventure? Explore all your passions at NAU.