Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies Overview
Students in the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies explore criminology, juvenile justice, and restorative justice while developing the critical thinking and ethical reasoning needed to address harm within justice systems. Through hands-on learning and internship opportunities with local agencies, students gain real-world experience that prepares them for careers in law enforcement, legal and court settings, corrections, nonprofit organizations, and graduate study. The program focuses on healing, accountability, and repairing harm while encouraging students to ask deeper questions about justice, power, and inequality, equipping students to succeed as values-driven professionals.
- 120 credit hours
- Primarily on-campus with some online course options
- Courses offered in an 8-week block schedule
- Grounded in restorative justice
- Hands-on experience from day one
Courses
Spalding’s 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies program gives students a deep, well-rounded understanding of the criminal justice system—covering law enforcement, courts and corrections—while emphasizing critical thinking, ethical leadership and the pursuit of justice.
Coursework spans key areas of criminal justice, including policing, juvenile justice, victimology, punishment, rehabilitation, and restorative justice, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of justice systems and reform.
Internship or Capstone Project
Through internship experience or a capstone project in your senior year, you’ll develop practical knowledge and research methods that can be applied directly to your career. You’ll also have the opportunity to:
- assist disadvantages communities
- be involved in public policy advocacy
- facilitate restorative justice circles and conferences
Tuition
Let’s chart your pathway to the pursuit of peace. Learn about tuition and fees for our Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies program, as well as your financial aid options.
Criminal Justice Minors
This minor will prepare you to develop the skills and knowledge needed to assess, plan and implement restorative practices. See the RJ minor program sheet (PDF).
This minor allows students outside of the criminal justice studies major to explore issues of crime and the criminal justice system. See the CJS minor program sheet (PDF).
Degree Requirements
Earn your criminal justice studies degree in 120 credit hours.
- 57 hours of general university studies
- 45 hours of criminal justice studies core courses
- 18 hours in one of our criminal justice minors
Accreditation
Spalding University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees.
Admissions Requirements
Do you want to cultivate healing and reconciliation in the justice system? Discover how Spalding’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies can prepare you to lead.
Find Possibility in the Heart of the City
DISCOVER YOUR GROWTH POTENTIAL
The Spalding University Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies program emphasizes high-demand skills, including critical thinking, communication and conflict resolution.
High-Impact Career Preparation
Make your passion for justice your profession. Spalding criminal justice studies graduates will be prepared to pursue further education or careers in a wide range of fields, including:
- Law enforcement
- Corrections
- Juvenile Justice
- Federal agencies
- Forensics
- Immigration
- Juvenile Justice
- Legal practice
- Reentry programs and facilities
- Victim advocacy
- Research
- Public Policy
Criminal Justice Day
Criminal Justice Day is a bi-annual signature event hosted by Spalding University’s Criminal Justice Studies program, connecting prospective high school students and current Spalding students with real-world justice careers.
The event features a career fair with local, state, and federal agencies, program highlights, and opportunities to explore internships, job shadowing, and career pathways.
With participation from local high schools and diverse justice-related employers, Criminal Justice Day reflects Spalding’s commitment to experiential learning, community partnerships, and early engagement in criminal justice education.
Whether you’re passionate about making a difference in your community, pursuing a career in public service, or planning for law school, Spalding’s program will prepare you with the knowledge and experience you need to succeed—and the values to lead with purpose.
Cicely J. Cottrell, PhD, Associate Professor and Chair of the School of Criminal Justice Studies
