Master of Science in Terrorism and Homeland Security Policy at American University

The major in Criminology provides a comprehensive understanding of crime and the criminal justice system.  The major prepares students to assume roles of leadership in this critical area of modern society.  Courses are designed to review theory, research, and applications of knowledge regarding delinquency and crime, as well as to understand the manner in which offenders are processed.  Students learn about the nature and extent of crime, different types of crime and theories to explain crime.  In addition, detailed analyses are made of the functions of the law, police, courts, and correctional systems and the ways in which these are linked to broader aspects of society.  Students may also minor in Criminology.  The Criminology major and minor are administered through the Department of Sociology and Criminology.

The major in Criminology provides a comprehensive understanding of crime and the criminal justice system.  The major prepares students to assume roles of leadership in this critical area of modern society.  Courses are designed to review theory, research, and applications of knowledge regarding delinquency and crime, as well as to understand the manner in which offenders are processed.  Students learn about the nature and extent of crime, different types of crime and theories to explain crime.  In addition, detailed analyses are made of the functions of the law, police, courts, and correctional systems and the ways in which these are linked to broader aspects of society.  

The major in Criminology provides a comprehensive understanding of crime and the criminal justice system.  The major prepares students to assume roles of leadership in this critical area of modern society.  Courses are designed to review theory, research, and applications of knowledge regarding delinquency and crime, as well as to understand the manner in which offenders are processed.  Students learn about the nature and extent of crime, different types of crime and theories to explain crime.  In addition, detailed analyses are made of the functions of the law, police, courts, and correctional systems and the ways in which these are linked to broader aspects of society.  Students may also minor in Criminology.  The Criminology major and minor are administered through the Department of Sociology and Criminology.

Students wishing to complete a double major must complete the Declaration of Major form for the College of Arts and Sciences and fill in both majors. Students completing a double major are not required to complete a minor as well.

Protect the innocent. Maintain public order. Identify crime trends and risk factors in the community. Intervene in the lives of young people who’ve made a mistake, and help them get back on track. Assist people who’ve served their time in re-entering society and becoming productive citizens.

This is a field that engages both the head and the heart: You’ll need to know the law and be able to process information and make smart decisions, but you’ll also need people skills, empathy, and a desire to contribute to something greater than yourself.

By studying Criminal Justice, you’ll learn to identify patterns of criminal behavior and understand the different facets of the criminal justice system. You’ll study the processes for rehabilitation and treatment for those who’ve committed crimes, and learn about the law and judicial philosophy.