Criminal Justice Program

The Criminal Justice major at Roanoke College is a multidisciplinary program that enhances the College’s liberal arts curriculum by offering students a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system and its broader social context. Students explore criminological theories, analyze the relationship between social inequality and justice, and examine how media influences public perception of current events in criminal justice. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical application, including the opportunity to design and conduct original research projects. Through this rigorous academic training, students gain the ability to think critically about complex issues and articulate informed perspectives on crime, justice, and society. 
 
In addition to classroom learning, the Criminal Justice program strongly encourages experiential education through initiatives like the Inside-Out Prison Exchange program and a robust internship program, including internships through the Washington Semester program. These hands-on experiences allow students to engage directly in justice-related environments and apply their skills in real-world settings. Students also develop discipline-specific writing and presentation abilities, along with methodological expertise that prepares them for both graduate study and professional careers. Whether pursuing work in law enforcement, legal services, policy analysis, or advocacy, graduates of the program are equipped with the tools to make meaningful contributions to the field of criminal justice. 

Criminal Justice Major Requirements

Crime, Deviance, and Social Control Concentration Requirements