Fairleigh Dickinson University

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical and applied perspectives on crime, criminals and the criminal justice system. You will study foundational topics in criminology and criminal justice alongside research methods and opportunities for practical experience.

Core subjects and modules

• Introduction to Criminology — theories of crime, historical and contemporary perspectives.
• Criminal Law and Procedure — basics of substantive and procedural law relevant to criminal cases.
• Criminal Justice Systems — structure and functions of policing, courts and corrections.
• Research Methods and Statistics — quantitative and qualitative methods for studying crime and justice.
• Juvenile Justice — development, policy and practice in youth offending and diversion programmes.
• Victimology — study of victims, impact of crime and support services.
• Policing and Community Safety — policing models, community relations and contemporary challenges.
• Correctional Theory and Practice — rehabilitation, prisons, probation and re-entry issues.
• Electives — options may include forensic psychology, cybercrime, white-collar crime, comparative criminal justice and immigration/crime intersections.

Structure and experiential learning

• Programme structure follows an undergraduate credit model with a mix of lower- and upper-level courses building research and analytical skills.
• Applied learning opportunities typically include internships or field placements with local law enforcement, courts, community organisations or probation services.
• Many students complete a capstone project or senior seminar that applies research methods to a substantive criminological question.

Entry requirements

Admission to the bachelor's programme requires a secondary school completion certificate or equivalent. Typical applicants present a strong academic record with coursework in social sciences or related areas recommended but not always required.

• Completed secondary (high school) credentials from an accredited institution or equivalent qualification.
• Transcripts demonstrating satisfactory academic performance; specific GPA expectations are set by the university for each cohort.
• Applicants whose first language is not English are usually required to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives.
• Some applicants, especially transfer students, may be asked for college transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
• Practical experience, volunteer work, or interest in criminal justice can strengthen an application but are not always mandatory.

Career prospects

Graduates with a degree in criminology move into a wide range of careers across the public, private and third sectors. The degree builds analytical, research and communication skills relevant to roles that address crime, safety and justice.

• Law enforcement careers such as police officers, detectives and federal agency positions (often requiring additional training or agency-specific selection processes).
• Corrections and community supervision roles including probation officer, parole officer and rehabilitation support.
• Policy, research and analyst positions in think tanks, government agencies or non-governmental organisations focused on criminal justice policy, crime prevention and victim services.
• Victim advocacy and social work roles in community organisations, crisis services and victim support programmes.
• Private sector opportunities such as security management, loss prevention and corporate compliance.
• Further study pathways include graduate degrees in criminology, criminal justice, forensic psychology, public policy or law.

Why study at Fairleigh Dickinson University

Fairleigh Dickinson University offers a campus-based learning environment with small class sizes and faculty who combine academic expertise with practitioner experience in criminal justice and related fields. The university's location in New Jersey provides access to a wide range of internship and field placement opportunities with local and regional criminal justice agencies.

• Focus on applied learning: internships, practicum placements and community partnerships are integrated to help students gain practical experience.
• Faculty with professional backgrounds in policing, corrections, research and policy who provide mentorship and industry connections.
• Career support services and alumni networks that assist students with placement, internships and career planning in criminal justice fields.
• Opportunities to participate in research projects, student organisations and public service initiatives that complement classroom study.