Department of Criminal Justice

What is Criminal Justice?

Criminal Justice is your pathway to becoming a force for positive change in communities nationwide, where evidence-based education meets real-world impact. As one of the oldest and most respected programs in the field, we prepare dedicated practitioners who serve the public good through careers in law enforcement, corrections, legal advocacy and community safety.

Our nationally recognized faculty guide you through transformative learning experiences that blend rigorous academic foundation with hands-on practice — from research projects that inform policy to internships with agencies like the US Secret Service, Kentucky State Police and Louisville Metro Police Department. Through our distinctive 3+3 Program, Criminal Justice majors can accelerate their path to legal careers by beginning law school during their senior year at the prestigious Brandeis School of Law.

Whether you're called to become a federal agent, defense attorney, probation officer or community advocate, our evidence-based approach develops the critical thinking, ethical reasoning and practical skills that create lasting impact. Here, your commitment to justice transforms into the expertise and leadership that protects communities and builds safer societies for all.

Career Prospects

Where Justice Becomes Your Life's Mission

Transform your passion for justice into a career that protects communities and shapes society's future. Criminal justice graduates don't just find jobs — they become the guardians of public safety, champions of reform and innovators driving systemic change. With justice ranking as society's fundamental need and criminal justice skills applicable across expanding sectors, your education becomes the foundation for meaningful service and professional excellence.

Traditional Law Enforcement and Public Safety 

Salary Range: $48,000-$130,000+ 
Serve your community as the first line of defense against crime and disorder. Your training in ethics, investigation and crisis management positions you at the heart of public safety, where courage meets compassion in protecting those who cannot protect themselves.

Career Opportunities:

• Police Officer building community trust and safety
• Federal Agent investigating complex crimes
• Detective solving cases that matter
• Emergency Management Specialist coordinating crisis response
• Homeland Security Officer protecting national interests
• Crime Scene Investigator uncovering truth through science
• Community Policing Specialist bridging law enforcement and neighborhoods

Corrections and Rehabilitation Leadership 

Salary Range: $42,000-$85,000 
Lead the transformation of lives through evidence-based corrections and rehabilitation programs. Your understanding of human behavior and systemic justice creates opportunities to break cycles of crime and build safer communities.

Career Opportunities:

• Probation Officer guiding successful reintegration
• Correctional Counselor providing pathway to change
• Juvenile Justice Specialist working with at-risk youth
• Victim Advocate supporting those harmed by crime
• Reentry Program Coordinator facilitating community return
• Court Administrator ensuring justice system efficiency

Emerging Justice and Technology Innovation 

Salary Range: $65,000-$170,000+ 
Pioneer the future of justice at the intersection of technology, data and human rights. These rapidly expanding fields reward your analytical thinking and ethical foundation with exceptional growth potential and the chance to define new approaches to public safety.

Career Opportunities:

• Cybercrime Investigator protecting digital communities
• Digital Forensics Analyst uncovering electronic evidence
• Crime Data Analyst predicting and preventing criminal activity
• Intelligence Specialist identifying emerging threats
• Corporate Security Manager protecting organizational assets
• Compliance Officer ensuring ethical business practices
• Risk Assessment Specialist evaluating public safety threats

Your Service, Your Impact, Your Legacy

Every path in Criminal Justice connects your desire to serve others with the power to create lasting change. Whether you're drawn to frontline law enforcement, rehabilitative justice or innovative crime prevention, your criminal justice education provides the foundation for a career that protects the vulnerable while strengthening the fabric of society. With strong job placement rates and opportunities spanning traditional law enforcement to cutting-edge cybersecurity, your commitment to justice becomes your pathway to professional fulfillment and community transformation.