As Criminal Justice majors, students develop a broad understanding of crime, criminal law, criminal-justice procedures and the socio-cultural environment in which human behavior occurs.
Through highly qualified professors, guest lecturers and field trips, students grasp the interdependence between theoretical and research knowledge and practice. The program cultivates a commitment to the principles of justice, ethics and public service, as well as leadership skills necessary to federal agents, lawyers, foreign-service officers and police officers.
Students gain real-world knowledge through internships with court, correctional and law-enforcement agencies. Students receive career counseling and pre-law advising. Many courses incorporate case analyses, police and court observation, simulations and guest lectures by judges, lawyers, correction commissioners and lawmakers. Internships and work-study opportunities are also available at the Vermont Center for Justice Research.
There are further opportunities to enhance classroom learning through clubs, such as Alpha Phi Sigma and the Criminal Justice Student Association, and the chance to study abroad.