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Acquire the advanced expertise required to build a career in criminal justice.
The criminology and criminal justice program examines crime, justice systems, and societal impacts through a sociological lens. Students analyze criminal behavior patterns and their root causes while assessing how communities address crime. The curriculum covers social science theories and research methodologies, investigating critical topics like racial, economic, and gender inequalities; systemic racism; legal consequences; rehabilitation; ethical dilemmas in justice systems; mental health challenges; addiction; migration policies; and innovative approaches to crime prevention.
Through this program, you will:
Master the intricacies of justice systems, studying their evolution, framework, and societal effects on individuals and communities
Examine interdisciplinary theories from sociology, psychology, and political science that inform our understanding of crime and justice
Gain practical insights for applying social science principles to professional settings and personal decision-making across various life paths
Career Opportunities
Protect communities as law enforcement personnel, support crime victims through advocacy roles, or contribute to policy development and intelligence work. A criminal justice degree provides versatile skills for meaningful careers that create social impact.
Potential career paths include:
Social Worker
Legal Assistant
Private Investigator
Crime Analyst
Forensic Specialist
Law Enforcement Officer
Probation Supervisor
Correctional Counselor
Legal Rights Advocate
Your future success at UMass Boston is important to us, and that begins with your high school curriculum.
All non-native speakers of English must demonstrate English language proficiency. Students can demonstrate proficiency by submitting the following exams:
TOEFL (79+)
IELTS (6.0+)
SAT (Evidence Based Reading & Writing (ERWS) component of 480+)
ACT (Reading and English component scores totaling 34)
Duolingo English Test (100+)