If you are passionate about justice and making a positive difference in the lives and safety of communities, then a major in the law & justice field may be a good fit for you. Pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Law, Criminal Justice, and Society (LCJS), and take courses in core areas such as criminal law, criminology, and criminal justice ethics. Supplement these with specialized courses in forensics, cybercrime, legal psychology, law enforcement, corrections, and civil rights. The new LCJS major merges, builds on, and augments the strengths of two other majors, Administration of Justice and Legal Studies, which remain available as separate degree options for new majors through September 10, 2021.
| IMPORTANT NOTICE:
The CGS Administration of Justice and Legal Studies BA majors are being phased out, with no new students being accepted after September 10, 2021. New students interested in criminal justice and legal studies can major in the new Law, Criminal Justice, and Society program. Applications are now open. |
NEW MAJOR: Law, Criminal Justice, and Society (BA)
The Law, Criminal Justice, and Society (LCJS) major is an interdisciplinary course of study leading to a Bachelor of Arts degree. LCJS examines the workings of the criminal justice system in the broader context of society and the legal system. A core curriculum develops understanding and critical analysis of the legal system, criminological theory, criminal law, criminal justice institutions, and social inequality. In fulfillment of the major, students have the opportunity to complete six credits of professional skills as well as a capstone course on ethics in criminal justice. The LCJS major equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to pursue advanced degrees in law and social science, and to succeed as professionals and advocates in justice-oriented occupations and organizations that serve American society’s diverse and dynamic communities.
Degree Offered: BA
Credits: 120
Time to Complete: 2 to 4 years
Internship Required: No, but enouraged
Format: On campus with select courses offered online
Administration of Justice (BA)
In American society, the justice system is a central social institution whose effects on individuals and social groups give it a pivotal role in our changing society. The Administration of Justice Program is an upper-division undergraduate program of interdisciplinary study in the liberal arts and sciences that leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree. Students have the option to take some courses through Butler County Community College.
Degree Offered: BA
Credits: 120
Time to Complete: 2 to 4 years
Internship Required: Yes
Format: On campus with select courses offered online
Locations: Pittsburgh and Butler County
Concentrations: Adult & Juvenile Corrections; Law Enforcement Practice; Forensics; Cybercrime
*The Administration of Justice major requires that you complete an internship at a facility outside the University. This facility may require a criminal background check, Act 33/34 clearance, and perhaps drug screening to determine whether you are qualified to participate in the internship. Additionally, in order to become licensed or employed, many states will check whether the applicant has been convicted of a misdemeanor, a felony, or a felonious or illegal act associated with alcohol and/or substance abuse.
Legal Studies (BA)
The Legal Studies major is an interdisciplinary course of study that combines the theories and methods of several social science disciplines with law. The major is intended to help students develop an understanding of the nature, content, and operation of American law and legal institutions.
Degree Offered: BA
Credits: 120
Time to Complete: 2 to 4 years
Internship Required: No, but encouraged
Format: On campus with select courses offered online
Location: Pittsburgh
Advanced Degree Option
*Pending acceptance to the School of Law—completion of prerequisites does not guarantee acceptance.