Criminal Justice (BA)
Understand the roots of criminality. Build a safe and just society.
As our world continues to evolve, social change can impact our sense of security, identity, and community trust. Pursuing a degree in criminal justice introduces you to important societal topics like intercultural competency and
homeland security. MBU’s criminal justice program equips you with essential analytical, technical, and communication skills, preparing you to make a meaningful difference in the field and your community.
- Time to Completion4 years
- FormatOnline, On Campus
- Degree(s)Bachelor of Arts
- Minor(s)Homeland Security, Criminal Justice
- NeighborhoodEducation & Society
Next steps
Why study criminal justice at Mary Baldwin?
Mary Baldwin’s criminal justice majors explore the psychology and sociology of criminality and corrections.
As a student in our program, you’ll have the opportunity to study under experienced professionals in the criminal justice field, gaining valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of working in this dynamic industry. Many of our courses are taught by industry professionals like attorneys and police officers. Criminal justice students also get to explore current events and local examples of cases, often in real-time.
As a criminal justice major at Mary Baldwin, you’ll learn to:
- Analyze criminal behavior and apply theories to real-world situations
- Understand the complexities of the criminal justice system and its various components
- Conduct original research and analyze data to inform criminal justice policies and practices
- Exercise your ethical thinking and decision-making
Features & Benefits
- Semester-long internships
- A wide array of community partners
- Contact with professionals in a variety of related careers
- Advanced scholarly research opportunities and applied projects
- Possible induction into Nu Sigma, MBU’s chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma, the National Criminal Justice Honor Society
Next steps
Learning about youth courts, as well as actually visiting a fully developed one in Richmond, has been an amazing opportunity that I am so thankful for. This project has allowed me to make many connections with individuals who work in various aspects of the criminal justice field.
Meagan Cuomo BA ’23Criminal justice major who studied teen court programs for her senior capstone project
Courses & Curriculum
The criminal justice curriculum provides a wide variety of topics within the field, offering a truly individualized learning experience. Students also work closely with faculty who have practical and research experience in the Staunton community and around the nation.
Sample courses include:
An introduction to the social scientific theory explaining crime and criminal behavior, with an emphasis on sociological theory. Topics include an overview of common crimes, crime measurement methods, contemporary criminology theory, and the social origins of crime and criminal behavior. You’ll also learn how legislators, politicians, mass media, law enforcement, and court and corrections systems profoundly impact crime.
Examines the social causes and rates of juvenile delinquency and society’s treatment of young people who break the law. Explore related criminological and sociological theories, and apply your new knowledge to current events and media reports.
Introduces the changing dynamics of homeland security at the national and state levels. Explores the history and future of terrorism in a global context, and the dynamics of providing security in a range of different settings.
A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice requires 120 credit hours.
Explore the Neighborhood
This major is part of the Education & Society Neighborhood. Neighbors live together their first year, study and take classes together, and enjoy special curated activities.
Our Faculty
Our faculty is made up of dedicated professionals who’ve helped communities across the nation and are passionate about teaching. Many of our faculty are still actively involved in criminal justice and social work with the expertise, insights, and connections to help you on your career path.
Cost & Financial Aid
A great education is worth it. Mary Baldwin offers generous financial aid packages and a broad range of scholarships to help you bring your aspirations to life.
MBU also helps you fast-track your path to a bachelor’s degree with the opportunity to transfer up to 18 credits (6 courses) through direct course equivalents from the Virginia Community Colleges System.
