B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice

Students gain hands-on experience through applied research projects, mock crime scene simulations, and community-based learning. The department is developing enhanced experiential learning opportunities, including structured simulation environments and practitioner-led workshops that allow students to apply investigative, analytical and policy evaluation skills in realistic scenarios.

• Senior Research Capstone: Students complete an original research project under faculty supervision.
• Internships: Students participate in credit-bearing internships with law enforcement agencies, courts, probation offices, advocacy organizations and nonprofit agencies.
• Professional Networking: Guest speakers from policing, federal agencies, victim advocacy and legal professions network with students.
• Certification Opportunities (in development): Students will learn targeted skill-based competencies aligned with law enforcement and justice careers.
• Community Engagement: Students will engage in coursework that integrates service learning and applied justice reform initiatives.

1. Examine the interconnected components of the criminal justice system and their effectiveness in achieving justice and public safety. [Administration of Justice]
2. Describe the major philosophies of punishment and how they influence historical and contemporary issues in corrections, including incarceration, probation, parole, and rehabilitation programs. [Corrections]
3. Identify various theoretical perspectives, including systemic, social, and individual, used to explain the causes of crime and criminal behavior. [Criminological Theory]
4. Describe the procedures involved in the court system, including legal principles and courtroom procedures, and their impact on justice outcomes. [Law Adjudication]
5. Explain the history of different policing strategies, challenges, and ethical considerations within law enforcement operations and their effectiveness in reducing crime. [Law Enforcement]
6. Critically evaluate and propose research methods for studying contemporary criminal justice problems. [Research and Analytic Methods] 
7. Identify the historical and contemporary role of systemic inequality, including issues related to race, gender and socioeconomic status, in shaping criminal justice policies and outcomes. [Systemic Inequality]
8. Deconstruct the societal and criminal justice response to victimization, including victim services and support provided within the criminal justice system. [Victimology]

Why study criminology and criminal justice at SXU?

Saint Xavier University combines rigorous academic training with personalized mentorship and a mission-driven commitment to social justice.

• Small Class Sizes: Close interaction with faculty who know your goals.
• Chicago Advantage: Access to one of the nation’s largest justice systems for internships and professional networking.
• Mission-Driven Education: Grounded in service, integrity and excellence.
• Research-Focused Curriculum: Preparation for graduate study and competitive employment.
• Leadership Development: Students graduate prepared to serve as ethical leaders in justice-related professions.

A Minor in Criminology and Criminal Justice is available for students majoring in related disciplines such as Psychology or Political Science. Students seeking a BA in Criminology and Criminal Justice may also find value in accompanying minors, such as Pre-Law, Sociology, Social Work, and Forensic Studies (coming soon!).

Program Requirements

The minor in criminology and criminal justice involves 18 credit-hours, nine of which must be taken at SXU. A grade of C or better is required for courses in the minor of criminal justice.