Law, Criminal Justice, & Society Minor
Explore the connections among law, criminal justice, and society through an interdisciplinary minor designed to complement your major and broaden your understanding of legal and justice systems.
Current Pitt students interested in the LCJS minor should apply directly through the College of General Studies. CGS students interested in adding the minor should contact their CGS academic advisor.
Minor at a Glance
Complete five LCJS courses to earn the minor.
Build a foundation in law, criminal justice, and their broader social context.
Choose courses that emphasize law or criminal justice.
Many LCJS courses are available in online or hybrid formats.
Shape Your Minor
The LCJS minor is designed to complement a wide range of majors. Choose courses that align with your interests while developing a broader understanding of law, criminal justice, and society.
Explore Law
Build your understanding of legal systems, institutions, policy, and the relationship between law and society through courses focused on legal topics.
Explore Criminal Justice
Examine crime, criminal justice systems, policing, corrections, and other issues related to how societies respond to crime and maintain justice.
Minor Requirements
In order to complete the minor, you will take 15 LCJS credits (five courses), as outlined below. At least three courses must be from the University of Pittsburgh. A 2.0 average GPA is required. Courses used for a minor cannot overlap with courses used for a major, minor, or a certificate.
Core Courses: 9 Credits
Foundations: 3 Credits
Complete one of these two LCJS courses:
Theories of Crime or Criminal Law: 3 Credits
Complete one of the following five courses:
Criminal Justice or Legal Institutions: 3 Credits
Complete one of these five courses:
LCJS Electives: 6 Credits
Complete two additional electives with an LCJS subject code. Please keep in mind that course selections must comprise a total of at least six credits. These courses can come from the lists above if not used to fulfill a specific area requirement and/or from the following list:
Flexible Options & Resources
Plan your minor around your academic goals and schedule. Many LCJS courses are offered in online or hybrid formats.
Explore Online Courses
Browse current online course offerings to see which LCJS courses may fit your schedule.
View Online Course Offerings »Plan Your Minor
Use the LCJS Minor Checklist as a planning tool, and work with your academic advisor before registering for courses.
View the LCJS Minor Checklist »Questions About the Minor?
Wesley Hiers, PhD
Director, Administration of Justice, Legal Studies, and LCJS
Requirements are subject to change. Check with your academic advisor before registering for courses.