Criminal Justice
The program in Criminal Justice is a comprehensive interdisciplinary program that blends a strong liberal arts education experience with pre-professional instruction in the field of criminal justice. The program provides students with a rich understanding of crime and criminal justice in the United States and abroad. Graduates of the program are well-informed citizens on the subject of crime and justice, and are qualified for graduate study or for employment as practitioners in a variety of legal, policy-making, and law enforcement areas.
The Rutgers academic affiliation varies by partner community college location:
Transfer requirements vary by location. Review the transfer guidelines for your specific partner community college location for details.
Partner Locations Offering this Degree
Atlantic Cape Community College
Courses are offered in a hybrid format (in-person and online), making the program accessible for working or non-traditional students.
Brookdale Community College
Find everything you need to know about the program, including course format and prerequisites, plus location-specific requirements that vary by partner campus.
Camden County College
Find everything you need to know about the program, including course format and prerequisites, plus location-specific requirements that vary by partner campus.
County College of Morris
Find everything you need to know about the program, including course format and prerequisites, plus location-specific requirements that vary by partner campus.
Additional Information
Admission Requirements
- An A.A. or A.S. degree from a reginally accredited community college.
- Recommended GPA 2.5 or higher
- Completion of prerequisite coursework is recommended
- Applicants should consult with an academic advisor prior to applying
Transferring Credits
- Up to 60 credits accepted from NJ county colleges
- Up to 90 credits may be accepted from a 4-year institution
Visit the NJ Transfer website for more information.
Where This Degree Can Take You
Employment opportunities exist for criminal justice majors in all areas of the legal, law enforcement, and justice systems.
Students are also prepared to pursue graduate coursework in law or public policy as well as many other criminal justice-related disciplines. Employment opportunities exist at the managerial level in country, state, and federal criminal justice agencies.
Understanding the Criminal Justice System
Explore how policing, courts, corrections, and other parts of the justice system work together to maintain public safety and uphold the law.
Crime, Causes, and Society
Examine why crimes occur, the social factors that influence criminal behavior, and how communities and institutions respond.
Law and Legal Foundations
Build a strong understanding of laws, legal procedures, and the role of the justice system in society.
Critical Thinking and Public Safety
Develop analytical and problem-solving skills to evaluate crime, justice policies, and public safety issues from multiple perspectives.
Career Preparation in Criminal Justice
Gain practical knowledge and transferable skills that support careers in law enforcement, the courts, corrections, and public service.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
You don’t have to navigate the transfer process alone. Rutgers on-site advisors and community college staff work together to help you understand your options, plan your path and prepare for your transition to a Rutgers degree program.