COURSE CURRICULUM

University of Colorado Denver structures its Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice around a combination of core courses, research training, and practical experience designed to prepare students for careers within the justice system. The curriculum begins with foundational courses such as Criminology and Criminal Justice: An Overview, which introduces students to the criminal justice system and major issues related to crime and justice. Students then study Criminological Theory to understand the causes of criminal behavior and social responses to crime. Research Methods and Statistics for Criminal Justice provide analytical and quantitative skills that help students evaluate criminal justice data, conduct research, and interpret findings relevant to policy and practice. Students must successfully complete the research methods course before taking statistics to ensure they have the necessary academic preparation. Additional required courses focus on key areas of the justice system, including Corrections, Law Enforcement, and Courts and Judicial Process, giving students a broad understanding of policing, rehabilitation, legal procedures, and judicial operations. The curriculum also includes Understanding the Social World, a sociology course that fulfills a social science requirement while helping students understand social structures and human behavior connected to crime and justice. Beyond the required coursework, students complete 12 elective credit hours, including advanced 3000- and 4000-level criminal justice courses that allow them to explore specialized topics and areas of professional interest. The program strongly emphasizes real-world experience through the required internship course, which gives students practical exposure to criminal justice organizations and professional environments unless an official waiver is approved. Students granted an internship waiver must complete an additional criminal justice elective in its place. Academic advisors and program directors assist students in selecting approved electives and determining internship eligibility. Overall, the curriculum combines theory, research, practical training, and interdisciplinary learning to equip students with the critical thinking, communication, and professional skills needed for careers in law enforcement, courts, corrections, public service, and related fields.