Criminal Justice is the study of the American criminal justice system. This system is composed of a series of interrelated components including the prevention, investigation, and apprehension functions of law enforcement; the prosecution, defending, judging, and administrative roles of the courts; the controlling, deterring, and rehabilitative roles of corrections; and the prevention and treatment functions of the juvenile justice system. In criminal justice, interpersonal and organizational dynamics are intricate and require knowledge of human behavior, social development, political philosophy, and other interrelated courses.

Why a degree in Criminal Justice

Criminal justice practitioners of the future must have a solid educational foundation to meet the needs of a rapidly changing, diverse society.

Graduates of our program have found successful careers in federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, in federal and state correctional systems, and the private security sector. The criminal justice degree is also a stepping-stone to law school or to graduate school.

Mission Statement

The mission of the bachelor of science in criminal justice at East Carolina University is to educate people for professional practice in a constitutional criminal justice system. The major objectives of the degree are to develop knowledge, values, and skills necessary for quality service in the areas of corrections, law enforcement, and the administration of justice.