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.

  • Gain valuable knowledge and skills: By pursuing Criminal Justice Studies at Siena, you'll learn about the legal, social, cultural, economic, political, technological, and ethical factors that shape criminal justice policy and practice. 
  • Develop critical thinking and analysis skills: By scrutinizing existing criminal laws, policies, and structures, you will assess what works well and what might work better if we “reimagined” how we render justice. 
  • Make a difference in your community: If you’re passionate about preventing crime, promoting justice and accountability, and repairing harm, our Criminal Justice Studies Program will equip you to be a change agent in your community.
  • Enjoy diverse career options: With a degree in Criminal Justice Studies from Siena, you'll be well-prepared for a range of exciting career options, including forensics science and financial fraud investigations, legal advocacy, law enforcement, corrections, victim advocacy, policy shaping, and research roles.
  • Join a supportive community: As a student in our Criminal Justice Studies Program, you'll be part of a supportive community of like-minded students and faculty who are committed to social justice and change. You'll have the opportunity to learn from and collaborate with others who share your interests and goals.

CHOOSE FROM FOUR TRACKS:

Human Rights Track: Gain valuable insights into the impacts criminal laws, policies and practices have on individuals and communities  by taking courses like:

  • Gender Power and Society
  • Wrongful Conviction
  • Race & Minority Politics
  • Abnormal Psychology

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:

  • Public Administration
  • Crisis Theory and Intervention
  • Social Welfare Policy
  • Political Sociology

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:

  • Forensic Psychology
  • Criminalistics
  • Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy
  • Cold Case Lab

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:  

  • Forensic Inspection Methods
  • Fraud and Forensic Accounting
  • Forensic Accounting Lab
  • Forensic Psychology

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.

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES 

Study Abroad

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.

LIFE AFTER SIENA AS A criminal justice major 

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.

READY TO MAKE YOUR MARK?

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.