COURSE CURRICULUM

The Criminal Justice BS curriculum at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is a four-year program totaling 120 credit hours, designed to provide students with a strong academic foundation and practical experience in the field of criminal justice. In the first year, students are introduced to the basics of the discipline through courses such as Seminar in Criminal Justice and Introduction to Criminal Justice, along with a range of general education subjects including writing, ethics, arts, science, and social perspectives. Electives also allow students to begin exploring specific interests early in the program.During the second year, the curriculum focuses on developing analytical and research skills through courses like quantitative methods and criminology, followed by research methods. Students also complete mathematics and science requirements along with immersion courses that broaden their academic perspective. This stage builds a deeper understanding of crime patterns, data analysis, and the scientific study of criminal behavior.In the third year, students have greater flexibility to choose criminal justice electives and general education courses, allowing them to tailor their studies toward specific career interests. Open electives further enhance this flexibility, enabling students to explore interdisciplinary areas or strengthen particular skill sets.The fourth year emphasizes practical application and advanced study. Students complete a field experience internship, gaining real-world exposure in criminal justice settings, and take a senior seminar focused on policy and reform. Additional electives and coursework help refine their expertise. Overall, the curriculum blends theory, research, and hands-on experience, preparing graduates for careers in law enforcement, corrections, policy analysis, or further education in graduate or law school.