COURSE CURRICULUM

The Criminal Justice and Homeland Security program at Auburn University at Montgomery prepares students to understand, analyze, and respond to complex issues in law enforcement, the legal system, and public safety. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in the principles of criminal justice, covering areas such as policing, corrections, juvenile justice, legal studies, public administration, and emergency management. Students explore the causes and consequences of crime, the structure and function of the judicial system, and the ethical and legal responsibilities of criminal justice professionals. The program integrates specialized studies in Homeland Security, including disaster management, intelligence analysis, terrorism, weapons of mass destruction, emergency preparedness, and human trafficking, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to address threats to public safety and national security. Students gain practical experience through internships, independent research, and capstone projects, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and applied problem-solving abilities. The curriculum also emphasizes contemporary topics such as cybercrime, forensic investigation, community corrections, public policy, and comparative criminal justice, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to work in diverse law enforcement, government, and private sector roles. Ethical decision-making, social responsibility, and cultural awareness are central components of the program, preparing students to navigate complex social and legal environments. Through a combination of theoretical study and experiential learning, students develop the ability to critically evaluate policies, design interventions, and implement effective strategies for crime prevention and public safety management. Graduates are equipped for careers in law enforcement agencies, courts, corrections, emergency management, federal and state security organizations, and related fields, or for advanced study in criminal justice, public policy, or law. The program’s comprehensive approach ensures that students leave with both the practical skills and the scholarly understanding necessary to succeed as informed, ethical, and effective professionals in the fields of criminal justice and homeland security.