Sociology: Social and Criminal Justice
Major
Program Overview
If you have a passion for community-based justice, a major in sociology with a concentration in social and criminal justice is for you. You’ll immerse yourself in the study of corrections and criminology and prepare for a rewarding career at the intersection of social justice and criminal reform.
AT A GLANCE
Why This Program & What You'll Learn
Our program focuses on understanding criminal justice in the broader context of social justice. You’ll explore all sides of the issue — from offender rehabilitation to meeting victims' needs to conflict resolution and security.
You’ll dive deep into the study of criminology; alternative sentencing; inequalities; juvenile delinquency; victimology; government and corporate crime; and policing. Beyond the classroom, you’ll get real-world experience through internships with social-service agencies and justice advocates.
Our graduates go on to fulfilling work with homeless youth, incarcerated fathers and their children and other marginalized communities. Others go on to scholarly work on pressing topics like the link between adolescent substance use and violent behavior.
Program Highlights
As a sociology student with a concentration in social and criminal justice, you can:
- Tailor your education by choosing electives such as Social Issues through the Prism of a Prison; Government and Corporate Crime; Victimology; and Police and Community Relations.
- Make friends and connections by joining the Justice Society, the international sociology honor society, or another of our many registered student organizations.
- Apply for scholarships designed specifically for students of sociology or anthropology.
Careers & Outcomes
A sociology major with a concentration in social and criminal justice is excellent preparation for graduate study in law, criminal justice, sociology and related fields. It also prepares you for a career in probation, parole, alternative sentencing and diversion programs, community mediation and social and human services.
| Career | Projected Salary |
|---|---|
| Social Science Researcher | $55,076 |
| Child/Family/School/General Social Worker | $50,820 |
| College Professor/Instructor | $79,640 |
| Social and Community Service Manager | $74,240 |
| Community Relations Director | $58,212 |
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