| program Type | Department | School |
| Undergraduate Major, Undergraduate Minor | Criminal Justice | School of Liberal Arts |
Siena’s unique interdisciplinary Criminal Justice Studies Program examines criminal law and policies through the prism of social, restorative, and transformational justice.
Human Rights Track: Gain valuable insights into the impacts criminal laws, policies and practices have on individuals and communities by taking courses like:
You'll learn about strategies for promoting restorative and transformational justice, including harm reduction and repair, and how to take a communal approach to addressing issues in the criminal justice system. With this specialized training, you'll be well-prepared for a variety of rewarding careers in law, advocacy, non-profit management, social services, research, and beyond.
Policy, Practice & Administration: Pursue your dream of working in government, the court system, the law, or corrections. You'll have the chance to take courses like:
Gain the skills and knowledge you need to make a positive impact on our world through the shaping and implementation of laws and policies in just and fair ways. Our program focuses on restorative and transformational justice, empowering you to find ways to minimize harm and increase accountability for the common good.
Forensics Science Track: Unlock a world of exciting career opportunities in forensics science, crime scene investigations, genetic sequencing, cyber security, and data analytics by diving into courses like:
With this specialized training, you'll learn how to investigate crime scenes and cold cases, and build a strong foundation to hold institutions accountable for harms such as in wrongful convictions, among other injustices. Imagine the impact you could have on the criminal justice system and your community as a knowledgeable and ethical forensic science professional.
Financial Forensics Track: Discover the quickly expanding, fast-paced world of financial fraud investigation by engaging in courses like:
With this unique, hands-on training in financial fraud investigations, you will learn how to prove a case of financial fraud, and understand the value of repairing the harm done to the individuals and businesses impacted.
Uncover a world of adventure and opportunity! Survey global legal and justice systems and explore diverse cultures firsthand. Broaden your perspectives on what is considered “just” in other places, enhance your critical thinking, and be better prepared for a career in criminal justice.
Siena’s Criminal Justice graduates are leaders and change agents in their communities and beyond. Siena’s strong academics and real-world experience prepare graduates for careers in the law (law firms, DA’s/Public Defender’s/AG’s offices, courts), advocacy work (non-profit orgs), law enforcement (policing, corrections), government (Homeland Security, legislature, public office), forensic science investigation (state/private crime labs, FBI, police), financial forensic investigation (banks, DA’s offices, law firms), and beyond.
Yes. A criminal justice degree can prepare you for careers in law enforcement, courts, corrections, advocacy, government, forensic investigation, policy, and other areas. At Siena, Criminal Justice Studies takes an interdisciplinary approach, examining how law, justice, economics, policy, technology, and social change intersect while emphasizing restorative and transformational justice.
A criminal justice degree can lead to careers in law enforcement, corrections, courts, legal advocacy, government, victim advocacy, forensic science, financial fraud investigation, policy, research, and nonprofit organizations. Siena's Criminal Justice Studies program offers four tracks that allow students to focus their education on different areas of the field.
Criminal justice graduates can pursue careers such as police officer, detective, criminal investigator, probation or parole officer, corrections professional, victim advocate, court professional, forensic investigator, financial fraud investigator, policy analyst, and government or nonprofit professional. Some graduates also continue their education in law, public policy, or other graduate programs.
No. Law enforcement is just one career path for criminal justice graduates. The field also includes courts, corrections, advocacy, government, forensic science, financial investigations, policy, research, and nonprofit work. Siena's Criminal Justice Studies program prepares students to explore many of these areas rather than focusing exclusively on policing.
Criminal justice students study how laws, policies, institutions, and social factors shape the justice system. At Siena, students examine legal, social, cultural, economic, political, technological, and ethical issues while developing skills in critical thinking, research, analysis, communication, and problem-solving. Students also explore how the justice system can better prevent harm, promote accountability, and repair harm.
Yes. A criminal justice degree can provide a strong foundation for students interested in law school by developing skills in critical thinking, research, writing, analysis, and understanding legal systems. Siena's Criminal Justice Studies program includes coursework focused on criminal law, policy, courts, and justice, giving students an opportunity to explore the legal system before pursuing a law degree.
Yes. Criminal Justice Studies can lead to careers involving forensic investigation and crime analysis. Siena's Forensics Science track includes courses such as Criminalistics, Forensic Psychology, Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy, and Cold Case Lab, giving students opportunities to explore crime scene investigation, forensic science, cybersecurity, and data analytics.
Siena is what college should be—an education that leads to real opportunities and a future you’re excited to step into. Apply now and take the first step towards a rewarding career.
