Bachelor of Science - Criminal Justice (Optional Co-op)

RIT’s criminal justice degree focuses on understanding crime and criminal justice system responses. Students explore contemporary public safety issues, especially those involving technology, and evaluate the intended and unintended consequences. This framework offers opportunities to consider policy responses and engage in hands-on research in local agencies. A focus on theory and social science provides students with the problem-solving skills necessary for addressing today’s most pressing social issues.

The criminal justice degree offers students a broad education, preparing them for a wide range of careers in federal and local criminal justice agencies. The major also provides continuing education for professionals already employed in criminal justice positions and offers a strong academic foundation for graduate or law school. The major is unique in its broad core curriculum, the scope of professional course offerings, an intensive field experience where students blend knowledge gained in the classroom with a career-oriented internship, and opportunities for cooperative education.

RIT's approach to the study of criminal justice combines theoretical perspectives with practical experience. The emphasis within the areas of crime, criminal behavior, social control mechanisms, administration, planning, and management is on problem-solving techniques based on the growing body of research in the field as well as students' own guided research.

An accelerated 4+1 MBA option is available for students who wish to earn a BS in criminal justice and an MBA. The program is offered in conjunction with Saunders College of Business and allows students to obtain both degrees in five years of study. Students should consult their advisor for more information.