Ball State criminal justice graduate in uniform as police officer

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If you are looking for the flexibility in how you take your classes, consider our all-online option for a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and criminology. Learn more.

Crime is an unfortunate part of our world every day. If you have a passion to serve and protect the vulnerable and better understand the causes of crime and delinquency, then our bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and criminology are for you.

This major provides you with a combination of in-class education, immersive learning opportunities, and internships in a professional environment. Upon graduation, you will be well-versed on the theory and practice of the criminal justice system and you’ll be well-prepared for employment with local or national criminal justice agencies.

What You Will Learn

As part of our criminal justice and criminology program, you will gain in-depth knowledge of how social, political, and cultural contexts influence crime and the justice system. You’ll gain the experience to conduct yourself professionally as you interact with peers, educators, members of the community, and criminal justice professionals.

You’ll also learn to:

  • critically evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of criminal justice policy
  • conduct research and/or interpret qualitative and quantitative findings and relate them to criminal justice policy

Program Benefits

Our instructors combine successful professional careers with strong teaching abilities. They’ll take an active interest in your success, using their ties to the field to help you grow through practical experiences.

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Through immersive learning opportunities, internships, and community projects, you’ll develop valuable, hands-on experience that will prepare you for your career.

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Our students lead in the classroom, on campus, and in the community—we take pride in helping others.

You’ll have the opportunity to mentor at-risk youth, teach adults to read, participate in blood drives, clean up neighborhoods, and many other activities. There are literally hundreds of opportunities within CJC and the university to volunteer your time.

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Department Scholarships

On top of the dozens of scholarships the university offers its students, our department gives awards every year to its own students to recognize them for their achievements. Learn more.

Ready to Apply?

Are you interested in pursuing a BS or BA in criminal justice and criminology? The first step is to apply as an undergraduate student to Ball State University. Begin the journey today.

Questions?

Do you want to learn more about our program or have questions about the application process or financial aid? We’re here to help! One of the best ways to understand why Ball State is right for you is to schedule a visit through our Office of Undergraduate Admissions to see it for yourself. Or if you’d like to speak directly to someone in our department, please feel free to call or email us.

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