Justice and Legal Studies

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.

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

Note: This major is no longer accepting new students, effective Fall 2021.

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

Note: This major is no longer accepting new students, effective Fall 2021.

Advanced Degree Option

Master of Studies in Law Early Option for Legal Studies & Law, Criminal, Justice and Society Majors*
 
Students in the Legal Studies major and the Law, Criminal Justice, and Society (LCJS) major in the College of General Studies may obtain the MSL degree in a program in which credits obtained in the MSL program also count toward the bachelor's degree. For eligibility requirements and further details, see Early Admission Option for Graduate Study.
 

*Pending acceptance to the School of Law—completion of prerequisites does not guarantee acceptance.

Career Outlook

An undergraduate law and criminal justice degree supports a wide range of career pathways.

Criminal justice and related occupations
♦ correctional officers
♦ crime analysts
♦ forensic science technicians
♦ police and detectives
♦ private detectives and investigators
♦ probation officers and correctional treatment specialists
♦ adult basic and secondary education
♦ mental health counselors
♦ paralegal and legal assistants
Governmental and non-governmental criminal justice analysis and reform organizations
♦ Bureau of Justice Statistics (governmental)
♦ National Institute of Justice (governmental)
♦ The Marshall Project (non-governmental)
♦ Prison Policy Initiative (non-governmental)
♦ Vera Institute of Justice (non-governmental)
Advanced degrees in law and the social sciences
♦ Law school
♦ Ph.D. programs in Criminology & Criminal Justice

 

Connect with CGS Career Services to learn about current and future employment opportunities within this major.