Anna Maria College recognizes that criminal justice professionals face increasing challenges that demand knowledge and an appreciation of our diverse society. Over the years, Anna Maria College’s criminal justice programs have changed with the national scene, contributing to and living within some of the field’s highest academic standards. As criminal justice has grown and evolved, so have our programs, which continue to stand as a model for academic change and excellence. Collaborations and partnerships have allowed the programs to provide education and leadership beyond the traditional classroom walls. Emphasis on intellectual involvement, career preparation, social awareness, and dedication to peace and justice are cornerstones of our programs. 

The faculty brings a broad spectrum of educational achievements and professional experiences to the classroom. Faculty and students come together as a community of scholars and learners to acquire knowledge in an ever-changing field and explore the boundaries of that knowledge through research and analytical thought. Anna Maria College-educated criminal justice professionals commit to professionalism and excellence and are mindful of their responsibilities to the community.

In addition to the general graduate studies admissions criteria, applicants must possess an undergraduate major in criminal justice or a closely related field. Employment in the field of criminal justice may be considered instead of the major.

The program consists of 12 courses: a required four-course sequence, seven electives, and successful completion of the Capstone Project or a written thesis.

Required Courses (4)

• PHL 600 Ethical Theory (or equivalent 
• CRJ 710 Research Design and Methodology
• CRJ 711 Statistical Analysis
• CRJ 816 Criminological Thought

 Total credits: 36

Elective Courses (7)
Seven elective criminal justice courses are required. Students may choose to take up to three courses (nine credit hours) in elective graduate coursework from related disciplines with program director approval.

• Capstone/Thesis Requirement (1)
• CRJ 891 Policy and Strategy or CRJ 892 Thesis

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program should:

• Evaluate and analyze a contemporary CJ issue with advanced knowledge of CJ terminology, major topic areas/issues in criminal justice and criminological theory, and ethical issues in crime and justice.
• Design a research proposal and conduct computer-based statistical analysis at basic (descriptive) level.
• Understand the interdisciplinary nature of criminal justice and ethical issues in law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
• Integrate valid, reliable, and ethical research to inform policy and decision-making in the field of criminal justice.
• Communicate in a manner that is scholarly, professional, and consistent with the expectations for members of the criminal justice profession