The Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice is designed to prepare individuals academically in the behavioral, natural and social science perspectives, as well as for further study in graduate or professional schools in any of these fields. The program provides intensive study in areas of criminal justice theory, research methodology and data analysis, criminal law, organizational functioning, and program planning. The program strives to promote understanding of key criminal and legal issues of contemporary urban society and respect for racial, ethnic, cultural, and gender diversity. By incorporating a multidisciplinary social, behavioral and natural science approach to undergraduate study, the program provides two important benefits for the student. First, it encourages the development of an interrelated perspective with regard to the study of criminal justice. This perspective facilitates a more comprehensive focus on the connections among the endeavors of crime prevention, law enforcement, adjudication, and punishment. Secondly, the program is designed to encourage the development of effective analytical and problem-solving skills that will equip professionals with the intellectual capacity necessary for a variety of positions in criminal justice.

The total number of units required for the Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice is 180 units, of which 88 units are in the major. Consult with an advisor for the specific number of units required in all areas of the degree including GE and free electives.

Limitations on Transfer Credit

Students intending to transfer to Cal State L.A. from a community college to continue work toward a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice are advised to complete general education requirements and any lower division core courses equivalent to those in the Cal State L.A. curriculum prior to transferring. Students are advised to contact the school for information on transfer agreements between Cal State L.A. and specific community colleges.

Criteria for Admission to the Major

Students seeking admission to the major must first be admitted to the university as a pre-criminal justice major and then directly apply to the School of Criminal Justice and Criminalistics to be accepted as a major. Criteria for admission to the major are a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 and a grade of B- or better in CRIM 101, 126 (or the equivalent) and CRIM 301. Students will have a single opportunity to take and achieve a grade of B- in each of these courses.