Criminal Justice, B.S. (University College)

Program Code: CRMUC_BS

Program Description

Students receiving a baccalaureate degree in criminal justice should understand each of the three main components of the criminal justice system and their interrelationships, be able to evaluate critically both current and future crime control policy proposals and criminal justice research, and understand the complexity of the crime phenomenon and its relationship to individual, social, and cultural factors. This major includes study in law enforcement, courts and corrections individually and as components of a system, plus work in theories of crime causation, and crime control policy. Students should expect reading, writing, and critical thinking skills to be rigorously applied and developed throughout the degree program. The Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice provides a broadly based liberal arts background for the study of crime, justice and the criminal justice system. The Bachelor of Science degree offers an opportunity for educational enrichment in fields not traditionally considered part of the liberal arts. Either degree is excellent preparation for a career in criminal justice, graduate, or professional study, or informed citizenship.

What is Criminal Justice?

Criminal justice is the study of the adult and juvenile justice systems, including law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. It is interdisciplinary and includes understanding the intersections of law, public policy, and behavioral science, in an effort to understand crime as a social problem and improve these systems for the good of society.

You Might Like This Program If...

You have an interest in working in corrections, courts, court administration, law enforcement, and probation and parole. Students completing this course of study are prepared to enter law school and graduate degree programs in more specialized areas. Every student in this degree will participate in an internship at a host agency located in a local, state or federal agency of their choice.

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT CRIMINAL JUSTICE

Entrance to Major

In order to be eligible for entrance to this major, a student must:

  1. attain at least a C (2.00) cumulative grade-point average for all courses taken at the University; and
  2. have at least third-semester classification.

READ SENATE POLICY 37-30: ENTRANCE TO AND CHANGES IN MAJOR PROGRAMS OF STUDY

Degree Requirements

For the Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice, a minimum of 120 credits is required:

Requirement Credits
General Education 45
Electives 18-22
Requirements for the Major 60-61

4-7 of the 45 credits for General Education are included in the Requirements for the Major. This includes: 0-3 credits of GH courses; 4 credits of GQ courses.

Requirements for the Major

A grade of C or better is required for all courses in the major. To graduate, a student enrolled in the major must earn at least a C grade in each course designated by the major as a C-required course, as specified by Senate Policy 82-44.

Prescribed Courses
Prescribed Courses: Require a grade of C or better
CRIMJ/CRIM 100Introduction to Criminal Justice Keystone/General Education Course3
CRIMJ 210Policing in America3
CRIMJ 220Courts and the Prosecution Process3
CRIMJ 230Corrections in America3
CRIMJ 290Introduction to Internship Experience2
CRIMJ/CRIM 441The Juvenile Justice System3
CRIMJ 450WSenior Seminar3
CRIMJ 495Internship in Criminal Justice3
SOC/CRIMJ/CRIM 12Criminology Keystone/General Education Course3
SOC 119NRace, Ethnicity and Culture Keystone/General Education Course3-4
STAT 200Elementary Statistics Keystone/General Education Course4
Additional Courses
Additional Courses: Require a grade of C or better
CRIMJ 250WResearch Methods in Criminal Justice3
or SOC 207 Research Methods in Sociology
PHIL 103Ethics Keystone/General Education Course3
or CRIMJ 465 Ethics in Criminal Justice
Select 9 credits from any 400-level CRIMJ course that does not already fulfill another requirement in the major9
Supporting Courses and Related Areas
Supporting Courses and Related Areas: Require a grade of C or better
Select 12 credits, in consultation with the adviser, in one or two of the following skill enhancement areas: accounting, computers, composition and rhetoric, counseling, education, law and legal studies, world language, management, public speaking, research methods and statistics, science and engineering, biobehavioral health; or in the following topics: adolescence, deviant behavior, drugs, minorities12

General Education

Connecting career and curiosity, the General Education curriculum provides the opportunity for students to acquire transferable skills necessary to be successful in the future and to thrive while living in interconnected contexts. General Education aids students in developing intellectual curiosity, a strengthened ability to think, and a deeper sense of aesthetic appreciation. These are requirements for all baccalaureate students and are often partially incorporated into the requirements of a program. For additional information, see the General Education Requirements section of the Bulletin and consult your academic adviser.

The keystone symbol Keystone/General Education Course appears next to the title of any course that is designated as a General Education course. Program requirements may also satisfy General Education requirements and vary for each program.

Foundations (grade of C or better is required and Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)

  • Quantification (GQ): 6 credits
  • Writing and Speaking (GWS): 9 credits

Breadth in the Knowledge Domains (Inter-Domain courses do not meet this requirement.)

  • Arts (GA): 3 credits
  • Health and Wellness (GHW): 3 credits
  • Humanities (GH): 3 credits
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (GS): 3 credits
  • Natural Sciences (GN): 3 credits

Integrative Studies

  • Inter-Domain Courses (Inter-Domain): 6 credits

Exploration

  • GN, may be completed with Inter-Domain courses: 3 credits
  • GA, GH, GN, GS, Inter-Domain courses. This may include 3 credits of World Language course work beyond the 12th credit level or the requirements for the student’s degree program, whichever is higher: 6 credits

University Degree Requirements

First Year Engagement

All students enrolled in a college or the Division of Undergraduate Studies at University Park, and the World Campus are required to take 1 to 3 credits of the First-Year Seminar, as specified by their college First-Year Engagement Plan.

Other Penn State colleges and campuses may require the First-Year Seminar; colleges and campuses that do not require a First-Year Seminar provide students with a first-year engagement experience.

First-year baccalaureate students entering Penn State should consult their academic adviser for these requirements.

Cultures Requirement

6 credits are required and may satisfy other requirements

  • United States Cultures: 3 credits
  • International Cultures: 3 credits

Writing Across the Curriculum

3 credits required from the college of graduation and likely prescribed as part of major requirements.

Total Minimum Credits

A minimum of 120 degree credits must be earned for a baccalaureate degree. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 credits. Students should consult with their college or department adviser for information on specific credit requirements.

Quality of Work

Candidates must complete the degree requirements for their major and earn at least a 2.00 grade-point average for all courses completed within their degree program.

Limitations on Source and Time for Credit Acquisition

The college dean or campus chancellor and program faculty may require up to 24 credits of course work in the major to be taken at the location or in the college or program where the degree is earned. Credit used toward degree programs may need to be earned from a particular source or within time constraints (see Senate Policy 83-80). For more information, check the Suggested Academic Plan for your intended program.

Program Learning Objectives

Beaver, New Kensington, and Shenango Campuses

  • Core criminological knowledge and concepts: Students will be able to describe the functioning of the American criminal justice system and applicable special topic areas in relation to relevant issues within the three primary branches of the Criminal Justice System (Law Enforcement, Courts, Corrections).
  • Apply analysis and evaluation strategies: Students will be able to apply justice-related analysis and evaluation strategies, including applying theories of criminal and deviant behavior, to formulate solutions to criminological and societal problems.
  • Interpret research and data: Students will be able to formulate research questions, implement criminal justice research methods which may include both quantitative and/or qualitative designs, and be able to explain and interpret research findings.
  • Understand Ethical and Contextual Relationships: Students will be able to demonstrate the importance of ethics to the field of criminal justice by explaining the history and present-day relationships between culture, social class, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality, as well as by applying ethical standards in appropriate settings.
  • Communicate effectively: Students will be able to demonstrate effective interpersonal communication of major criminological issues in various forms which may include written, oral, and media formats.

DuBois and Greater Allegheny Campuses

  • Know Structure: Demonstrate understanding around the history, structure, and function of the three branches of criminal justice (Courts, Law Enforcement, Corrections).
  • Know Context: Demonstrate understanding around the relationship between culture, social class, race and ethnicity, gender and sexuality and criminal justice involvement.
  • Know and Use Theory: Demonstrate understanding of core theories in criminology and the sociology of deviance along with their relevance to different types of offenses and offenders.
  • Think Critically: Demonstrate ability to solve criminal justice problems through an understanding of context, the identification of appropriate evidence, and appreciation of potential barriers and limitations.
  • Research: Demonstrate ability to formulate research questions, implement basic quantitative and qualitative research methods, collect and analyze limited data.
  • Communicate: Demonstrate ability to effectively communicate practical and theoretical criminal justice issues through papers, visual media, and oral presentations.

Fayette Campus

  • Application of research methods: Students will create a plan to answer a specific research question related to crime and criminal justice.
  • Evaluation of strategies to reduce crime: Students will evaluate the effectiveness of prominent crime control policies and strategies.
  • Identification of power structures: Students will enumerate the motives and forces that determine the shape and scope of criminal law.
  • Identify Alternatives: Students will identify alternatives to the formal criminal justice systems as a means of facilitating pro-social, non-criminal behaviors.
  • Knowledge of American Criminal Justice System: Students will identify and describe the components of the American criminal justice system and the processing of cases.
  • Knowledge of crime theories: Students will identify the elements that comprise the major biological, psychological, and sociological perspectives that attempt to explain the causes of crime.

Hazleton and Wilkes-Barre Campuses

  • Knowledge Base in Criminal Justice: Students will develop knowledge and understanding of the major components of the criminal justice system and juvenile justice system as well as how these components interact. Student understanding of the criminal justice process will be enhanced through targeted courses in courts, corrections, and policing that highlight the unique needs, challenges, and operation of these components. Across the curriculum, students will be exposed to criminological theories that help to explain the role of gender, race/ ethnicity, and other background characteristics on offending, victimization, and criminal justice processing.
    • Describe key concepts, principles, and overarching themes in criminal justice
    • Develop a working knowledge of criminal justice content domains
    • Describe applications of criminological theory
  • Research Methods: Students will understand the importance and practical use of social science research methods and the role these play in criminal justice policy.
    • Use scientific reasoning to interpret criminal justice policy
    • Demonstrate criminal justice information literacy
    • Engage in innovative and integrative thinking and problem solving
    • Interpret, design, and conduct basic criminological research
  • Professional Writing and Critical Thinking: Students will practice writing and critical thinking skills through writing assignments across the curriculum and the completion of at least one writing intensive course.
    • Demonstrate effective writing for different purposes
    • Exhibit effective presentation skills for different purposes
    • Interact effectively with others
    • Demonstrate critical thinking skills concerning issues in criminal justice
  • Ethics: Students will understand the role of ethics in criminal justice.
    • Apply ethical standards to evaluate criminal justice research and policy
    • Build and enhance interpersonal relationships
    • Adopt values that build community at local, national, and global levels
  • Placement: Students will be prepared for placement in the criminal justice field through an internship experience.
    • Apply criminal justice content and skills to career goals
    • Exhibit self-efficacy and self-regulation
    • Refine project and time-management skills
    • Enhance teamwork capacity
    • Develop meaningful professional direction for life after graduation

Schuylkill Campus

  • Students will be able to have a basic understanding of the nature of the three branches of Criminal Justice System (Legal, Law Enforcement, Corrections)
  • Students will be able to have developed critical thinking skills to understand and to formulate solutions to problems relating to criminological issues.
  • Students will be able to read and correctly interpret Criminal Justice research and data. Data will be collected from CRIMJ 494 the capstone course for the program.
  • Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and application skills regarding the fact that the criminal justice professional must operate in a climate of tolerance and respect where opposing viewpoints can be exchanged openly.
  • Analyze the nature of crime and criminal behavior and their impact on policy related to crime and public safety.

Academic Advising

The objectives of the university's academic advising program are to help advisees identify and achieve their academic goals, to promote their intellectual discovery, and to encourage students to take advantage of both in-and out-of class educational opportunities in order that they become self-directed learners and decision makers.

Both advisers and advisees share responsibility for making the advising relationship succeed. By encouraging their advisees to become engaged in their education, to meet their educational goals, and to develop the habit of learning, advisers assume a significant educational role. The advisee's unit of enrollment will provide each advisee with a primary academic adviser, the information needed to plan the chosen program of study, and referrals to other specialized resources.

READ SENATE POLICY 32-00: ADVISING POLICY

Beaver

Mari Pierce, Ph.D.
Professor in Charge & Associate Professor, Criminal Justice
100 University Drive
213 Ross Administration Building
724-773-3549
mpb16@psu.edu

DuBois

Adam Bundy
Academic Advising Manager
214 DEF Building
1 College Place
DuBois, PA 15801
814-375-4763
ajb5294@psu.edu

Fayette

LaVarr W. McBride
Assistant Teaching Professor
Department of Administration of Justice
2201 University Drive
Lemont Furnace, PA 15456
724-430-4240
lwm13@psu.edu

Greater Allegheny

Katherine McLean
Associate Professor, Criminal Justice
109C Main Building
4000 University Drive
McKeesport, PA 15132
kjm47@psu.edu

Sandra Trappen
Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice
104B Main Building
4000 University Drive
McKeesport, PA 15132
slt62@psu.edu

Jennifer Croyle
Assistant Teaching Professor, Pyschology
104D Main Building
4000 University Drive
McKeesport, PA 15132
jmc948@psu.edu
(Internship Advising Only)

Hazleton

Pamela Black
Associate Professor of Administration of Justice
Memorial 105
Hazleton, PA 18202
570-450-3548
pup1@psu.edu

Lehigh Valley

Debra Dreisbach
Lecturer
2809 Saucon Valley Road
Center Valley, PA 18034
610-2895-5000
dad68@psu.edu

New Kensington

Richard Wentling
Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice
3550 7th Street Road
New Kensington, PA 15068
724-334-6761
rwentling@psu.edu

Schuylkill

Ron Kelly
Criminal Justice Program Coordinator
200 University Drive
Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
570-385-6075
rap179@psu.edu

Shenango

Travis Milburn
Assistant Professor, Criminal Justice
147 Shenango Avenue
Sharon, PA 16146
724-983-2954
twm5527@psu.edu

Wilkes-Barre

Rebecca Sarver
Program Coordinator, Criminal Justice
44 University Drive
Dallas, PA 18612
570-675-9216
rss5718@psu.edu

Abington

Lisa Morris
Program Chair
1600 Woodland Road
Abington, PA 19001
215-881-7397
lxv2@psu.edu

Altoona

Mary Ann Probst, Esq.
Program Coordinator/Assistant Teaching Professor
Cypress Building 103
3000 Ivyside Park
Altoona, PA 16601
814-949-5352
map141@psu.edu

Berks

Lauren Martin
Program Chair, Criminal Justice and Associate Professor of Sociology
Gaige 304
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6214
BKCrimJust@psu.edu

Suggested Academic Plan

The suggested academic plan(s) listed on this page are the plan(s) that are in effect during the 2024-25 academic year. To access previous years' suggested academic plans, please visit the archive to view the appropriate Undergraduate Bulletin edition.

Criminal Justice, B.S. at Beaver Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 100*3CRIMJ 12*3
ENGL 15 or 30H‡3CAS 100A‡3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Quantification (GQ)‡3General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)1.5
PSU 8 (if recommended or required)0-1Elective3
 15-16 16.5
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 220*3CRIMJ 210*3
SOC 119N*4CRIMJ 230*3
General Education Course3STAT 200*‡†4
General Education Course3ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D (A/D preferred)‡3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 16 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 441*3CRIMJ - 400 Level*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3Skills Enhancement Course*3
PHIL 103*†3Skills Enhancement Course*3
Skills Enhancement Course*3General Education Course3
Elective3Elective3
General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)1.5 
 16.5 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 250W*3CRIMJ 450W*3
CRIMJ 290*2CRIMJ 495*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3Elective3
Skills Enhancement Course*3Elective3
Elective3 
 14 12
Total Credits 121-122
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

‡

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

†

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Criminal Justice, B.S. at DuBois Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 100*3CRIMJ 12*3
ENGL 15 or 30H‡3CAS 100A‡3
General Education Course3General Education Course (GQ)‡3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
PSU 8 (FYS)1 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 210*3CRIMJ 230*3
General Education Course3SOC 119N*4
STAT 200*‡4ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D‡3
General Education Course3CRIMJ 220*3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 16 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 441*3CRIMJ 400 Level3
CRIMJ 400 Level3Skills Enhancement Course*3
CRIMJ 465*3Skills Enhancement Course*3
Skills Enhancement Course*3General Education Course3
Elective3Elective3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 250W*3CRIMJ 450W*3
CRIMJ 290*2CRIMJ 495*3
CRIMJ 400 Level3Elective3
Skills Enhancement Course*3Elective3
Elective3General Education Course3
 14 15
Total Credits 122
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

‡

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

†

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Criminal Justice, B.S. at Fayette Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 100*3CAS 100A‡3
ENGL 15 or 30H‡3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3Elective3
General Education Quantification (GQ)‡3CRIMJ 12*†3
PSU 81 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 210*3CRIMJ 230*3
CRIMJ 220*3ENGL 202A‡3
SOC 119N*†4General Education Course3
STAT 200*‡†4CRIMJ 250W*3
CRIMJ 250W*3General Education Course3
 17 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 441*3CRIMJ - 400 Level*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3Skills Enhancement Course*3
CRIMJ 465*†3General Education Course3
Skills Enhancement Course*3General Education Course3
Elective3Elective3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 290*2CRIMJ 450W*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3CRIMJ 495*3
Skills Enhancement Course*3Elective3
Skills Enhancement Course*3Elective3
Elective3General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)1.5
 General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)1.5
 14 15
Total Credits 122
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

‡

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

†

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Criminal Justice, B.S. at Greater Allegheny Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PSU 81CRIMJ 12*3
ENGL 15, 30H, or ESL 15 (GWS)‡3BA 243 or PHIL 103*3
CRIMJ 100*3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course (GQ)‡3
General Education Course3CAS 100, CAS 100A, CAS 100B, or CAS 100C‡3
General Education Course3 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 210*3ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D‡3
General Education Course3SOC 119N*†4
General Education Course3STAT 200*‡†4
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 CRIMJ 220*3
 12 17
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 290*3CRIMJ 250W*3
CRIMJ 451 (or other 400-level CRIMJ course)*3CRIMJ 230*3
CRIMJ 413 (or other 400-level CRIMJ course)*3Elective3
Major Supporting Course*3Major Supporting Course*3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 453 (or other 400-level CRIMJ course)*3CRIMJ 441*3
Major Supporting Course*3CRIMJ 495*3
General Education Course3CRIMJ 424W (or other 400-level CRIMJ course)*3
CRIMJ 450W*3Elective3
Elective3Elective3
 15 15
Total Credits 120
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

‡

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

†

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Program Notes:

  • Additional CRIMJ 400-level courses: Select at least 9 credits at the 400-level.
  • Major Supporting Courses: Select 12 credits, in consultation with adviser. Recommended options include psychology courses (e.g., abnormal, forensic), BBH courses (e.g., Drugs, Behavior and Health), ECON 104 or ECON 102, HDFS courses (e.g., courses on developmental or family problems), or IST or SRA security courses.

Criminal Justice, B.S. at hazleton Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 12*†3CRIMJ 100*3
ENGL 15 or 30H‡3CAS 100A‡3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Quantification (GQ)‡3Elective3
PSU 81 
 16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 210*3CRIMJ 230*3
CRIMJ 220*3CRIMJ 250W*3
SOC 119N*†4ENGL 202A‡3
STAT 200*‡†4General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 17 15
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 441*3CRIMJ - 400 Level*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3Skills Enhancement Course*3
PHIL 103*†3General Education Course3
Skills Enhancement Course*3General Education Course3
Elective3Elective3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 290*2CRIMJ 450W*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3CRIMJ 495*3
Skills Enhancement Course*3Elective3
Skills Enhancement Course*3Elective3
Elective3General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)1.5
 General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)1.5
 14 15
Total Credits 122
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

‡

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

†

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Criminal Justice, B.S. at Lehigh Valley Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
ENGL 15 or 30H‡3CAS 100A‡3
CRIMJ 100*3CRIMJ/SOC 12†3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Quantification (GQ)‡3
First Year Seminar3General Education Course3
 15 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 2103ENGL 202A or 202B‡3
CRIMJ 2303General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3CRIMJ 220*3
Elective3STAT 200 (GQ)‡4
 15 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
PHIL 103†3CRIMJ 4413
SOC 119N†4Elective3
CRIMJ 250W*†3400 Level CRIMJ Selection*3
CRIMJ 290*3Skills Enhancement Selection*3
Skills Enhancement Selection3General Education Course (GHW)1.5
 Elective3
 16 16.5
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 495*3-6CRIMJ 450W*†3
400 Level CRIMJ Selection*3400 Level CRIMJ Selection*3
Skills Enhancement Selection*3Skills Enhancement Selection3
Elective3Elective3
General Education Course (GHW)1.5General Education Course3
 13.5-16.5 15
Total Credits 122-125
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

‡

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

†

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Criminal Justice, B.S. at New Kensington Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 100*3CRIMJ/SOC 12*3
ENGL 15 or 30H‡3CAS 100A‡3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Quantification (GQ)‡3General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)1.5
PSU 81Elective3
 16 16.5
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 220*3CRIMJ 210*3
SOC 119N*4CRIMJ 230*3
General Education Course3STAT 200*‡†4
General Education Course3ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D (A/D Preferred)‡3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 16 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 441*3CRIMJ - 400 Level*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3Skills Enhancement Course*3
PHIL 103*†3Skills Enhancement Course*3
Skills Enhancement Course*3General Education Course3
Elective3Elective3
General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)1.5 
 16.5 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 250W*3CRIMJ 450W*3
CRIMJ 290*2CRIMJ 495*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3Elective3
Skills Enhancement Course*3Elective3
Elective3 
 14 12
Total Credits 122
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

‡

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

†

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Criminal Justice, B.S. at Schuylkill Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 100*†3CRIMJ 12*†3
ENGL 15 or 30H‡3CAS 100A‡3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education (Quantification)‡3Elective3
PSU 82General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)1.5
 17 16.5
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 210*3CRIMJ 230*3
CRIMJ 220*3ENGL 202A‡3
SOC 119N*4STAT 200 or CRIMJ 260*‡†3-4
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 16 15-16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 250W*3CRIMJ 441*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3CRIMJ 465*3
Skills Enhancement Course*3CRIMJ - 400 Level*3
Skills Enhancement Course*3Skills Enhancement Course*3
General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)1.5General Education Course3
Elective3 
 16.5 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 290*2CRIMJ 450W*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3CRIMJ 495*3
Skills Enhancement Course*3Elective3
Elective3Elective3
Elective3 
 14 12
Total Credits 122-123
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

‡

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

†

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Criminal Justice, B.S. at Shenango Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 100*3CRIMJ 12*†3
ENGL 15 or 30H‡3CAS 100A‡3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Quantification (GQ)‡3General Education Health & Wellness (GHW)3
PSU 8 (if recommended or required)0-1 
 15-16 15
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 220*3CRIMJ 210*3
SOC 119N*†4CRIMJ 230*3
General Education Course3STAT 200*‡†4
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3Elective3
 16 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 441*3PHIL 103*†3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3CRIMJ - 400 Level*3
ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202C‡3Skills Enhancement Course*3
Skills Enhancement Course*3General Education Course3
Skills Enhancement Course*3General Education Course3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 250W*3CRIMJ 450W*3
CRIMJ 290*2CRIMJ 495*3
CRIMJ - 400 Level*3Elective3
Skills Enhancement Course*3Elective3
Elective3Elective3
 14 15
Total Credits 121-122
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

‡

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

†

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Criminal Justice, B.S. at Wilkes-Barre Campus

The course series listed below provides only one of the many possible ways to move through this curriculum. The University may make changes in policies, procedures, educational offerings, and requirements at any time. This plan should be used in conjunction with your degree audit (accessible in LionPATH as either an Academic Requirements or What If report). Please consult with a Penn State academic adviser on a regular basis to develop and refine an academic plan that is appropriate for you.

First Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 100*3CAS 100A‡3
ENGL 15 or 30H‡3SOC 12†3
Elective3SOC 119N†4
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
PSU 81 
 16 16
Second Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 210*3CRIMJ 230*3
CRIMJ 220*3STAT 200*‡†4
General Education Course3ENGL 202A, 202B, 202C, or 202D‡3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
General Education Course3General Education Course3
 15 16
Third Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 290*2CRIMJ 441W*3
CRIMJ 250W*3Skills Enhancement Course3
CRIMJ 465*3Skills Enhancement Course3
CRIMJ 400 Level*3Elective3
CRIMJ 400 Level*3Elective3
General Education Course3 
 17 15
Fourth Year
FallCreditsSpringCredits
CRIMJ 400 Level*3CRIMJ 450W*†3
Skills Enhancement Course3CRIMJ 495*3
Elective3Skills Enhancement Course3
Elective3Elective3
Elective3 
 15 12
Total Credits 122
*

Course requires a grade of C or better for the major

‡

Course requires a grade of C or better for General Education

#

Course is an Entrance to Major requirement

†

Course satisfies General Education and degree requirement

University Requirements and General Education Notes:

US and IL are abbreviations used to designate courses that satisfy Cultural Diversity Requirements (United States and International Cultures).

W, M, X, and Y are the suffixes at the end of a course number used to designate courses that satisfy University Writing Across the Curriculum requirement.

General Education includes Foundations (GWS and GQ), Knowledge Domains (GHW, GN, GA, GH, GS) and Integrative Studies (Inter-domain) requirements. N or Q (Honors) is the suffix at the end of a course number used to help identify an Inter-domain course, but the inter-domain attribute is used to fill audit requirements. Foundations courses (GWS and GQ) require a grade of 'C' or better.

Career Paths

Graduates of the Criminal Justice program are prepared to enter the workforce or can continue their graduate education in Master’s and PhD programs, as well as law school. Penn State Altoona Career Services supports and serves students in all areas related to career development and preparation including: Major and Career Exploration Career Decision-Making Preparation of Employment Documents Internship and Job Search Strategies Interview Preparation Preparing for Graduate School Developing your Professional Online Brand Presentations and Workshops.

Contact

Beaver

100 University Drive
213 Ross Administration Building
Monaca, PA 15061
724-773-3549
mbp16@psu.edu

https://beaver.psu.edu/academics/majors/crimj

DuBois

1 College Place
DuBois, PA 15801
814-375-4703
lvn5194@psu.edu

https://dubois.psu.edu/academics/degrees/crimj

Fayette

2201 University Drive
Lemont Furnace, PA 15456
724-430-4240
lwm13@psu.edu

https://fayette.psu.edu/academics/baccalaureate/criminal-justice

Greater Allegheny

109C Main Building
4000 University Drive
McKeesport, PA 15132
kjm47@psu.edu

https://greaterallegheny.psu.edu/academics/criminal-justice

Hazleton

Memorial 105
Hazleton, PA 18202
570-450-3548
pup1@psu.edu

https://hazleton.psu.edu/criminal-justice

Lehigh Valley

ACADEMIC AFFAIRS
2809 Saucon Valley Road
Center Valley, PA 18034
610-285-5000
dad68@psu.edu

https://lehighvalley.psu.edu/criminal-justice-babs

New Kensington

3550 7th Street Road
New Kensington, PA 15068
724-334-6761
rwentling@psu.edu

https://newkensington.psu.edu/academics/criminal-justice-ba-or-bs

Schuylkill

200 University Drive
Schuylkill Haven, PA 17972
570-385-6075
rap179@psu.edu

https://schuylkill.psu.edu/academics/bacc-degrees/criminal-justice

Shenango

CRIMINAL JUSTICE
147 Shenango Avenue
Sharon, PA 16146
724-983-2954
twm5527@psu.edu

https://shenango.psu.edu/academics/degrees/criminal-justice

Wilkes-Barre

44 University Drive
Dallas, PA 18612
570-675-9216
rss5718@psu.edu

https://wilkesbarre.psu.edu/academics/bachelors/criminal-justice

Abington

DIVISION OF SOCIAL SCIENCES
1600 Woodland Road
Abington, PA 19001
215-881-7397
lxv2@psu.edu

https://www.abington.psu.edu/academics/majors-at-abington/criminal-justice

Altoona

DIVISION OF EDUCATION, HUMAN DEVELOPMENT, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
Elm Building 103
3000 Ivyside Park
Altoona, PA 16601
814-949-5756
alg177@psu.edu

https://altoona.psu.edu/academics/bachelors-degrees/criminal-justice

Berks

DIVISION OF HUMANITIES, ARTS AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
Gaige Building
Reading, PA 19610
610-396-6214
BKCrimJust@psu.edu

https://berks.psu.edu/academics/baccalaureate-degrees/babs-criminal-justice