Make an Impact
Criminal justice as a discipline is concerned with the broad areas of law enforcement, courts/law and corrections, as well as criminological and legal theories which inform practice in these areas. The work of criminal justice practitioners includes police patrol, criminal investigations, supervising juveniles on probation, practicing law, counseling and correctional work in institutions, group homes or halfway houses and other rewarding careers. Within these and other career fields, criminal justice practitioners enjoy exciting professional challenges and opportunities for serving society and helping people.
Criminal Justice Major
The Criminal Justice major explores law enforcement, courts, corrections and social services. Career paths include federal, state and local law enforcement, probation and parole, victim advocacy, corrections and community service agencies.
NDSU graduates have gone on to work for organizations such as the FBI, DEA, local police departments, Border Patrol, the U.S. Secret Service, correctional facilities and crime prevention programs.
The curriculum covers all areas of the criminal justice system, with specialized courses in topics like criminal investigations, deviant behavior and serial killers. Drawing from disciplines such as social sciences, behavioral sciences, computer science and accounting, the program provides a broad foundation for careers in criminal justice.
Criminal Justice Minor
The minor in Criminal Justice provides an opportunity for students with majors in fields outside of the Criminal Justice program to gain valuable knowledge regarding criminological theory and the history, operation and effectiveness of various parts of the criminal and juvenile justice system.
Graduate Program
NDSU’s graduate program in Criminal Justice prepares students to lead in law enforcement, research, policy and academia. With opportunities for hands-on research, expert mentorship and flexible coursework, you’ll gain the skills and experience to make a lasting impact in the justice system.
