Criminal Justice

About This Program
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	Program Contact Katherine Dugan Department Chair and Associate Professor Department of Humanities, Social Sciences, and Criminal Justice (413) 748-3665 kdugan@springfield.edu
	Review our admissions requirements
	Curriculum and Delivery Our Experiential Major Map helps you visualize and design your journey Courses offered on campus in Springfield, Mass. Develop valuable critical thinking and communication skills Learn from highly qualified and dedicated faculty Have a variety of career options and be able to give back to your community Minor sample schedule Program curriculum Learning outcomes
	Graduate Success and Careers Explore outcomes, careers, and internships
	Paying for Your Education Tuition and fees Scholarships and types of aid Financial Aid
	Interested in Law School? Pre-law advising is available Learn how you can earn a bachelor's degree and law degree in six years 3+3 at WNEU 3+3 at UMass Law
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Investigate Your Future in Law Enforcement.

Take an interdisciplinary approach to studying social, political, and legal systems in the United States and around the world through the Criminal Justice major at Springfield College. You’ll explore critical questions about the legal process, examine the psychology behind why individuals commit crimes, and discuss how governments can balance individual rights with public safety.

Hands-On Experience
Gain real-world insight through internship experiences that connect classroom learning to the field.

Career and Graduate Opportunities
Our graduates are prepared for careers in law enforcement, corrections, community mediation, and local, state, and national government—or to continue on to graduate or law school.

What You’ll Learn

Critical Thinking and Ethical Decision-Making: Analyze and evaluate contemporary responses to crime and understand how diverse populations are affected by crime control policies.
Breadth and Depth of Content Knowledge: Develop a strong understanding of the nature and causes of crime, as well as the structure and function of law enforcement, the courts, and corrections.

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“The Criminal Justice faculty was the selling point for me. They teach through experience and example. They reply to students promptly, are aware of their needs and concerns, and are available both during and outside of office hours for
individual support and mentorship.” Kalia Roberson '24

“Springfield College’s mission of providing leadership in service to others helped guide me toward the career path I have chosen in criminal justice. My courses provided me with a strong knowledge-base in criminal justice and helped me develop interpersonal skills that were invaluable at my internship at Palmer District Court in the Probation Department. The education I received, the relationships I built, and the social skills I developed as a member of the Springfield College Criminal Justice Program have set me up for success in the professional world.” Zachary Wright ’19

Springfield College provided me with a quality education and the support that helped shape who I am today. The professors and advisors were always there to provide me with advice, support, and guidance as I earned my degree and worked through internships and jobs. Without Springfield College, I certainly would not be in the position I am today. Jon D'Angelo '14, Staff Assistant for U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren

"I decided to pursue a combined major in Computer Science and Criminal Justice based on the advice of Professor James O'Brien. This decision has allowed me to explore opportunities in both fields, equipping me with the knowledge and skills necessary to address contemporary challenges in law enforcement and technology."
Ali Mohsin Bozdar, Computer Science & Criminal Justice, Class of 2026

Learn about criminal justice at Springfield College.

Criminal Justice at Springfield College

"I have learned a lot about the Criminal Justice system and about all of the opportunities in the field."

Our students and alumni talk about their experience in our Criminal Justice program and why you should choose Springfield College for your degree.

Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Gary Berte speaks at the podium after being appointed to the Springfield Community Police Hearing Board.

Educated by Experts

Our criminal justice majors are educated by current experts in the field, like Assistant Professor of Criminal Justice Gary Berte who is appointed to the Community Police Hearing Board (CPHB) by Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno. Berte brings extensive first-hand experience and knowledge of criminal justice and community relations to the CPHB.

Incoming first year Springfield College students participate in June Orientation on Alden Street — Core Curriculum

Our curriculum is designed in faithfulness to the Springfield College mission and to further strengthen the Humanics philosophy of educating students in spirit, mind, and body.

The five components of the Core

Student at the Learning Commons — Career Center

The Career Center’s mission is to educate, inspire, and empower students and alumni to effectively make well-informed career decisions. The staff is committed to student learning and development, and offers a variety of opportunities and programming for students and alumni.

Career Center Information

Academic Success

Academic Success offers readily and easily accessible services including support in writing, mathematics, science, subject area tutoring, learning strategies and time management counseling, and assistance for students with documented disabilities.

Academic Success Information

Studying Criminal Justice At Springfield College

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Major Curriculum

Minor Curriculum

Careers and Internships

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