This major is not accepting new admits as of Autumn 2023.
The interdisciplinary curriculum for this major examines criminology, crime data analysis and mapping, and the contexts in which crime is rooted, or conversely, communities flourish.
With a degree in Criminology, you’ll graduate with an understanding of criminal behavior and the procedures and institutions within the criminal justice system. You’ll see the links among the criminal justice system and criminal behavior and larger social forces. You will understand alternative approaches to address crime and related social problems and how to apply Christian values and ethical principles to criminal justice practices.
This major provides the academic foundation for a career in law enforcement, social work, mental health services, or corrections, as well as graduate work in criminology, sociology, social work, or law.
- A minimum 66 credits are required for this major, including at least 30 upper-division credits.
- A maximum 10 credits of CRIM 4940 “Internship in Criminal Justice” can apply to this major.
Entering and completing the major
In order to earn a degree, you must complete at least one academic major. SPU encourages students to explore various academic paths, so if you change your mind about a major or minor, or want to include an additional program, you are able to do so, as outlined below.
Note that the University encourages you to enter your chosen major(s) and minor(s) by the start of your junior year. Students who transfer as juniors and seniors should enter a major within their first two quarters at SPU.
- If this is your first quarter at SPU and you identified a major in this department as your first choice on your application for admission to the University, you have gained entry to the major.
- To change to or add a major or minor in this department, follow these instructions.
- The University requires a grade of C- or better in all classes that apply to a major or minor; however, programs may require higher minimum grades in specific courses. You may repeat an SPU course only once for a higher grade.
- To advance in this program, meet with your faculty advisor regularly to discuss your grades, course progression, and other indicators of satisfactory academic progress. If your grades or other factors indicate that you may not be able to successfully complete the major or minor, your faculty advisor can work with you to explore options, which may include choosing a different major or minor.
- You must complete the major or minor requirements that are in effect in the SPU Undergraduate Catalog for the year you enter the major or minor.