Scales of Justice

Undergraduate Program Criminology and Criminal Justice


Degree Details

  • Bachelor of Arts (BA)
    Total Credits
    180
    Start Term
    Any
    Delivery Method
    On campus
  • Bachelor of Science (BS)
    Total Credits
    180
    Start Term
    Any
    Delivery Method
    On campus
  • Minor
    Total Credits
    32
    Start Term
    Any
    Delivery Method
    On campus

Learn more about our academic program delivery methods



Criminology and Criminal Justice Bachelor's Degree and Minor Overview

Delivered by nationally-known, award-winning faculty, Portland State University’s bachelor’s degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice blends practice and theory. Students learn how the legal system works with an in-depth look at the American court system, legal reasoning, and research. Additionally students explore the role of law enforcement and examine corrections and rehabilitation strategies to determine what methods work best to keep offenders from repeating their mistakes and communities safe. Overall, students will get an in depth look at the professions, policy, and challenges of crime and justice in American society, while pointing to tools to develop solutions.

Criminology and Criminal Justice Bachelor's Degree or Minor: Why PSU?

At Portland State University, we recognize the increasing demand for critical thinkers, problem solvers, innovators, and reformers. That’s why our criminology and criminal justice program is designed for intellectually curious, open-minded, and highly motivated individuals eager to make a difference in the criminal justice system and their communities. When students graduate from our criminology and criminal justice program, they view social trends and legislation in a new light. They see patterns when others see isolated incidents. They prefer to test a theory instead of blindly accepting it. They realize their passion and ambition can change the world—and they go for it.

What can I do with a bachelor's degree or minor in Criminology and Criminal Justice?

Our criminology and criminal justice degree foster skills that are sought after in the field and that drive hiring and promotion decisions.

Career opportunities can span from politics to business, investigations, law enforcement agencies, nonprofit leadership, and beyond. Apply your knowledge and skillset to become a leader in whatever area you choose.

Jobs in criminology and criminal justice include police officers, deputies, probation/parole officers, correctional officers, private security, prosecutors, defense attorneys, judges, magistrates and legal assistants, victim advocates, case managers, federal law enforcement, policy, and crime analysts.