If you have a passion to serve—and an interest in law, public safety, and justice—then welcome to Ball State’s Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology. Pick one of our degree programs and graduate equipped for a variety of exciting and rewarding careers within the criminal justice system at the local, state, and national levels.

Your course of study will include opportunities for immersive learning, in-depth research, and hands-on internships. You’ll also learn from some of the best professors in the country—all of whom have real-world experience in criminal justice—and additionally benefit from criminal justice honor societies, social organizations, and career fairs to help you make connections with working professionals and agencies to land the perfect job.


Dr. Koslicki and Peyton Gillespie conducting research

Major in Criminal Justice and Criminology

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science

If you have a passion to serve and protect the vulnerable and better understand the causes of crime and delinquency, then our degree in criminal justice and criminology is for you. Learn more.


Ball State criminal justice graduate in uniform as police officer

Major in Criminal Justice and Criminology (Online)

Bachelor of Science

Ball State's online Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and Criminology explores the causes and impacts of crime. This is a flexible program, mirroring the on-campus curriculum, offering an in-depth knowledge and real-world skills, all accessible online for working adults. Learn More

female student smiling

Minor in Criminal Justice

A minor in criminal justice will help you understand the American criminal justice system, the philosophies and practices of various correctional programs, and the techniques and theories of law enforcement—valuable information for any social scientist or legal professional. Learn more.


Digital Forensics Minor

Minor in Digital Forensics

This on campus minor gives you knowledge and experience in the areas of digital forensics, criminal investigation and evidence, criminal law, and computer science. Learn more.


A young man scuba diving

Minor in Law Enforcement Scuba

This on campus minor will prepare you for employment in a water-related work environment, including public safety diving teams and evidence recovery for police departments. Learn more.


A legal assistant reviewing documents

Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology

Associate of Arts

Ball State’s associate of arts degree in criminal justice and criminology provides an accelerated path to the professional world and will help you compete for mid-level management positions. You may pursue this degree either on campus or online. Learn more.

 Learn about a Degree in Data Analytics

Data Analytics is an emerging interdisciplinary field with three concentration areas in Computational Data, Environmental Systems, and Social and Behavioral. Find out more about a degree in Data Analytics.