About
The Department of Criminal Justice is dedicated to building safer, more just communities through collaborative partnerships, policy-relevant research and evidence-based practice in the classroom and t
Explore Comprehensive Programs
The Department of Criminal Justice offers comprehensive programs, from a bachelor of science to a master of science and PhD, plus minors in investigative forensics and AI in criminal justice. Through evidence-based teaching, applied research and strong community partnerships, we prepare students for careers in law enforcement, the courts, forensics, policy, research and beyond.
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History & Mission
Since 1969, the University of Louisville’s Department of Criminal Justice has shaped justice education and strengthened community safety. Guided by a mission rooted in justice, evidence-based policy, and improving community outcomes, the department brings together faculty members whose scholarship and teaching reach students, aspiring professionals, seasoned practitioners and policymakers.
The department’s origins trace to 1960, when Southern Police Institute founder David McCandless proposed the School of Police Administration, an idea approved in 1969 that launched a two-year associate degree program. As the field evolved, the unit expanded into Justice Administration in the early 1980s and emerged as the Department of Criminal Justice by the 2010s.
Throughout this evolution, the department has remained committed to high‑quality research, meaningful community partnerships and cutting-edge education. Today, recognized for its nationally ranked programs and funded research, the Department of Criminal Justice continues to inform policy, advance theory and prepare leaders dedicated to improving the justice system.
Who we serve
Our undergraduate students pursue a bachelor’s degree or a minor in Criminal Justice to strengthen majors across the university. Our program welcomes a community of traditional, first‑generation, non‑traditional and working students. Courses also fulfill multiple Cardinal Core requirements, including Written, Quantitative, and Social/Behavioral requirements helping you make efficient progress toward graduation.
Our graduate students come from backgrounds in criminal justice, sociology, political science, psychology, anthropology and related fields. Many are aspiring law students, law enforcement leaders, criminal justice professionals seeking managerial roles, federal agents, active military personnel, or those preparing for doctoral study.
Across all levels, the department supports students through a rigorous, relevant curriculum, faculty mentorship tailored to academic and career goals, and experiential learning opportunities that connect theory to practice through applied projects, internships, research and professional engagement.
Turn Your Commitment to Justice Into Career Impact
Ready to turn your commitment to public safety and equity into professional impact? Join the UofL Department of Criminal Justice and build the foundation for a career that protects, reforms and leads.