The Criminology option explores how historically-generated political, economic, and power/knowledge systems influence the creation of laws, attitudes and perceptions about crime, and the actual functioning of our contemporary criminal justice system. Criminal behavior and juvenile delinquency are also examined in light of historically-generated social, economic, and political conditions. The Criminology option is designed to give students a thorough understanding of the political nature of law creation, enforcement, adjudication, and punishment, as well as a thorough understanding of the bureaucratic structure of these various components of the criminal justice system. Alternative Native American and restorative justice systems and concepts are also explored as viable ways of thinking about problems of crime.
The Criminology option offers a unique opportunity to examine the relationship between theory and practice. Students in the Criminology option are required to participate in a semester-long internship where students work and study within various criminal justice-related social service programs. The Criminology option provides excellent opportunities for those students interested in graduate school or a career in 1) law; 2) law enforcement; 3) probation; 4) social work; or 5) corrections.
A minor in Criminology is available for students majoring in other disciplines.
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