Overview

Learn about the criminal justice system and the causes of crime. Explore disciplines such as policing, courts, and corrections, or special interest topics such as forensics or legal advocacy. Prepare for a variety of career paths through high quality clsassroom and experiential learning opportunities.

The B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice offers a curriculum designed to give students optional focus points, personalizing their educational experience with career-focused courses. Course clusters are designed to give you optional focus points within the degree.

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In addition to earning the B.A. from the University of Maryland, graduates acquire an excellent foundation for careers in criminal justice, government, politics, public policy, and activism, and security and investigation.

The B.A. in Criminology and Criminal Justice is offered through the University’s College of Behavioral and Social Sciences (BSOS), which educates and inspires the next generation of students by increasing their understanding of and pursuing innovative solutions to the issues facing our global community. Maryland BSOS – Be the Solution to the World’s Great Challenges.

Learn More and Apply!

Students entering the program at Shady Grove will have completed their freshman and sophomore years at a community college or accredited 4-year institution. The program is designed to be completed in two years of continuous full-time enrollment. Part-time study is welcomed.

Admission Requirements

See Program Requirements. On this site, you’ll also find transfer guides which provide course equivalency information.

Schedule an Appointment

Before applying, students are encouraged to schedule an appointment. The session helps determine how previous coursework will apply to your UMD degree, identify remaining general education and major requirements, and estimate your time to degree completion. To ensure that the advice you receive is specific to your academic situation and goals, bring a copy of your unofficial transcript/s to the meeting. To request a meeting with a CCJS at USG advisor, please complete the Prospective Student Information Form and one of our staff members will reach out to you.

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Apply for UMD Admissions at Shady Grove

Admissions for University of Maryland Shady Grove undergraduate programs is through the Office of Undergraduate Admissions. To apply and become a Terp at the Shady Grove location, see UMD Admissions - Shady Grove Applicants.

  • Note: Students who were previously enrolled at the University of Maryland, College Park (either at main campus or at the Universities at Shady Grove) must complete the re-enrollment application.

Minor in Criminal Justice

The College of Behavioral and Social Sciences also offers an undergraduate minor in Criminal Justice! This minor is open to non-CCJS majors admitted into a University of Maryland undergraduate program offered at the Shady Grove campus. The minor explores the strengths and weaknesses of the criminal justice system in the U.S., focusing specifically on police, courts, and corrections. Learn More and Apply.