Oregon State University

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme combines theoretical foundations in criminology with applied study of corrections, policing, courts and community supervision. You will study how social, economic and legal factors shape criminal behaviour and how agencies respond to it, with an emphasis on rehabilitation, re-entry and public safety.

• Core topics: Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminological Theory, Criminal Law, and Corrections.
• Corrections-focused modules: Institutional Corrections, Community Corrections and Re-entry, Offender Rehabilitation, Substance Abuse and Treatment, and Juvenile Justice.
• Practice and policy: Policing and Society, Victimology, Ethics in Criminal Justice, and Crime Policy Analysis.
• Research and skills: Research Methods in Criminal Justice, Statistics for Social Science, Program Evaluation, and a capstone or practicum that emphasises problem-solving and evidence-based interventions.
• Electives and special topics: Courses may include restorative justice, mental health and the law, cybercrime, and comparative justice systems depending on availability.
• Experiential learning: Opportunities for internships with local and state agencies, practicum placements in correctional settings, and collaborative research with faculty on community-based projects.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor’s programme typically requires a completed high school diploma (or equivalent) and a competitive academic record. Applicants should have strong preparation in English and social studies; mathematics or statistics at the secondary level is recommended because of the programme's research components.

• General university admission: successful completion of secondary education with a transcript showing solid achievement. Transfer applicants should provide college transcripts and meet transfer credit rules.
• Recommended subject background: courses in English, social sciences (history, civics, psychology or sociology), and mathematics/statistics.
• Non-native English speakers: proof of English proficiency through an approved test or equivalent university pathway.
• Additional materials: personal statement describing interest in criminal justice, and for some applicants, letters of recommendation or evidence of relevant volunteer/work experience can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in public, private and nonprofit sectors. The programme emphasises practical skills—investigative thinking, research literacy, report writing and ethical decision-making—that employers value.

• Law enforcement: municipal, county and state policing roles, including investigative and community policing positions.
• Corrections and community supervision: positions in prisons, jails, probation and parole, re-entry coordination and case management.
• Courts and legal support: court administration, victim advocacy, bail and pretrial services, and paralegal support roles.
• Policy, research and programme evaluation: roles in criminal justice research centres, policy organisations, think tanks and government agencies.
• Nonprofit and social services: organisations focused on rehabilitation, restorative justice programmes, substance use treatment and re-entry services.
• Further study: many graduates proceed to graduate programmes in criminal justice, public policy, social work, counselling or law.

Why study at Oregon State University

Oregon State University offers a comprehensive undergraduate experience with access to faculty engaged in applied research on corrections, justice policy and community interventions. The campus provides a supportive environment for hands-on learning through internships and partnerships with local and state justice agencies across Oregon.

• Applied research opportunities: work alongside faculty on empirical studies and program evaluations that inform policy and practice.
• Community and agency connections: local partnerships facilitate practicum placements and internships in corrections, probation, victim services and law enforcement.
• Student support: resources such as academic advising, career services and skills workshops help prepare students for employment or graduate study.
• Interdisciplinary perspective: coursework draws on sociology, psychology, law and public policy to provide a broad foundation for careers in the justice field.