Harper College

Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice and Legal Studies

Understand where laws come from, how they are upheld, and how laws interact with cultures to affect social justice. Prepare for a career in the criminal justice field or a law-related field such as politics, business and law.


Criminal Justice (BA)

Through the University Center at Harper College, explore the tensions and challenges in the criminal justice system and seek to improve it through a socially responsive perspective. The BA in Criminal Justice is the only degree program of its kind in Chicagoland devoted to social justice. Students work collaboratively with community organizations to achieve common social justice goals. You can mentor at-risk youth, design meaningful social justice activities and assist organizations in developing community programs. We also offer a dynamic study abroad program that allows you to spend one week abroad studying the justice system in a foreign country.

Through comprehensive curriculum in such classes as Crime in America, Police and Society, and Women and Crime, you will:

  • Become an attractive candidate for meaningful internships with local criminal justice agencies.
  • Learn the nuts and bolts of the criminal justice system from expert faculty.
  • Engage in issues impacting policy and and legislation
  • Prepare for graduate school or pursue diverse career options.

Legal Studies (Minor)

Roosevelt’s minor in legal studies prepares students for a professional career in a law- related field (law, politics, business) and is open to anyone interested in law in society and legal development.

Where are classes offered? 

Courses are offered in-person at the University Center. Some courses are offered online.

Sample Courses

  • Philosophy of Law 
  • U.S. Constitutional Law
  • Civil Rights & Civil Liberties
  • The Art of Persuasion
  • Business Communication

Career Outcomes

  • Criminal Justice: Policing
  • Homeland Security
  • Courts
  • Corrections 
  • Juvenile Justice
  • Child and Victim Advocacy
  • Security
  • Associated support agencies
  • Permitting specialist
  • Legal assistant
  • Administrator--legal division
  • Claims technician
  • Legal Studies: Public or Private Sector Lawyers (e.g. district attorney, counsel-at-large)
  • Staff of elected pr public offciails (e.g. legislative analyst, cheif of staff)
  • Government affairs/lobbying

Apply Now

roosevelt.edu/apply

Contact Us

admission@roosevelt.edu
(877)277-5978
430 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL

Last Updated: 12/14/23