Criminal Justice

Restorative justice is at the heart of the criminal justice major at Messiah College.

The criminal justice program at Messiah College will equip you to be an agent of social change and will encourage you to actively work toward what one sociologist calls “the good society.” Study the causes and responses to crime and the many criminology theories associated with it.

In this liberal arts and professional major, you also will study issues related to crime and justice from the restorative justice perspective and will grow in how you think about responsible citizenship. Steeped in biblical principles, restorative justice seeks healing, wholeness and reconciliation for all parties touched by crime.

As a criminal justice major at Messiah College, you’ll be able to:

Gain professional experience through internships with social services agencies and government entities such as police departments, the US Marshals, adult and juvenile probation, work release facilities, the coroner’s office, and a secure facility for youth offenders.
Join the Criminal Justice Club.
Combine your major with a minor in sociology and anthropology, urban studies, gender studies, peace and conflict studies, or a number of other minors.
Delve into courses ranging from Criminology, Ethics in the Criminal Justice System, Restorative Justice and Victimology.
Prepare for a career in judicial services, law enforcement, private security, adult and juvenile probation, adult and juvenile correctional institutions, adult and juvenile parole supervision, victim assistance programs, and community-based correctional and rehabilitation agencies.
Participate in field experiences in various social service agencies and government entities.
Study at Messiah College’s Philadelphia campus at Temple University, which offers students the opportunity to explore issues of diversity, social issues, and potential solutions through immersion in a large city context.