BA in Criminology and Justice
Loyola University, United States
Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Justice
Loyola University New Orleans
Criminology and Justice
BA in Criminology and Justice at Loyola University New Orleans
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Justice at Loyola University New Orleans prepares you to study the structure of the justice system, the ethical questions surrounding imprisonment and rehabilitation, and the operation of homeland security and the courts. Rooted in the Jesuit tradition of social justice and ethical inquiry, this program equips you with the analytical and research skills needed to pursue a career dedicated to sustaining justice.
The program features a strong social science research component that allows you to conduct original research and critically evaluate agency-generated data. You will examine how social structures influence crime and explore strategies for crime prevention, intervention, and offender rehabilitation within a broader societal context.
As part of the College of Arts and Sciences, the BA program includes a foreign language requirement and the interdisciplinary Loyola Core curriculum, which emphasizes spiritual, intellectual, moral, and ethical development. The program may also be eligible for completion in three years through Loyola's Degree in Three option, allowing motivated students to accelerate their path to graduation.
Program Highlights
- Strong social science research component with training in original research methods and data analysis
- Jesuit values-driven curriculum emphasizing ethics, social justice, and community engagement
- Flexible elective options including forensic science courses, capstone projects, and internships
- Potential to complete the degree in three years through the Degree in Three program
Curriculum and Course Modules
The BA in Criminology and Justice requires 120 credit hours, including 48 credits of major core courses, 9 credits of major electives, 39 credits in the Loyola Core general education curriculum, 6 credits of foreign language coursework, and 27 credits of general electives. The curriculum balances theoretical foundations with practical applications across all areas of the criminal justice system.
Introduction to Criminal Justice Systems
3 CreditsProvides a comprehensive overview of the American criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections. Students examine how these interconnected components function to maintain public safety and administer justice.
Criminology: Fundamentals
3 CreditsExplores the foundational theories of criminal behavior and the sociological, psychological, and biological factors that contribute to crime. Students analyze selected criminological theories and their application to real-world criminal justice issues.
Organized Crime
3 CreditsCovers the nature of organized crime, its history in America, emerging forms such as transnational organized crime, and the unique challenges law enforcement encounters in controlling it. Students study theories explaining the emergence, development, and persistence of organized criminal networks.
Forensic Psychology
3 CreditsFamiliarizes students with the field of forensic psychology, covering topics such as police negotiations, serial offenders, school violence, domestic terrorism, and the roles of mental health professionals within the criminal justice system.
Deviant Behavior
3 CreditsCritically examines the nature and extent of deviant behavior in complex industrial societies. Particular attention is given to the causes, consequences, and social processes associated with common forms of deviant and criminal expression in America and other societies.
Criminalization in the U.S.
3 CreditsAnalyzes the processes through which behaviors become defined as criminal within the United States. Students explore the social, political, and legal forces that shape criminal law and justice policy in contemporary American society.
Elective Options
Admission Requirements
Loyola University New Orleans operates a selective admissions process and is a test-blind institution, meaning SAT or ACT scores are not considered during the admissions review. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic record, personal qualities, and potential for success. To begin your application, reach out to Uni4Edu for guidance on the process and required materials.
Academic Requirements
- High School DiplomaCompletion of a recognized secondary school diploma or equivalent qualification
- GPA RequirementCompetitive cumulative GPA; a minimum 3.0 GPA is preferred for scholarship consideration
- Standardized TestsTest-blind institution; SAT and ACT scores are not required or considered for admission
- Academic PreparationStrong preparation in English, social sciences, and humanities is recommended
- International CredentialsInternational applicants may need credential translation or evaluation for fair comparison
English Language Requirements
- TOEFLContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for current minimum band score requirements
- PTE AcademicContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Loyola University New Orleans is committed to making education accessible and offers a range of merit-based and need-based financial support. Upon applying, you are automatically considered for academic merit scholarships. International students are also eligible for institutional scholarship awards. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance on funding opportunities.
Academic Merit Scholarships
Automatically awarded to qualifying applicants based on academic achievement. Merit scholarships are renewable for up to eight semesters provided students maintain satisfactory academic progress. International students with a minimum 3.0 GPA are eligible for merit-based awards up to and including full tuition.
Honors Program Scholarship
USD 5,000 per year (renewable for up to four years)Awarded to students admitted to the University Honors Program, which provides an enriching academic environment that fosters community and challenges students to utilize their gifts. The application deadline for Honors consideration is December 1.
International Student Scholarship
USD 1,500 per award cycleAwarded to F-1 visa holders who have demonstrated significant contributions to cultural understanding and awareness on the Loyola campus. Recipients must maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA at Loyola University New Orleans.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects for Criminology and Justice Graduates
Graduates of the BA in Criminology and Justice program at Loyola University New Orleans are prepared for a wide range of careers in law enforcement, corrections, social services, and public policy. The program's emphasis on research, critical thinking, and ethical reasoning gives graduates a competitive edge in both public and private sector roles related to justice and public safety.
Potential Career Paths
Typical Employing Organizations
Rankings and Recognition
Loyola University New Orleans is a respected private Jesuit institution accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The university has been recognized in multiple national rankings for its commitment to undergraduate teaching and academic quality. Criminology is among the university's most popular majors, reflecting the program's strong reputation.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Online Graduate Criminal Justice | U.S. News & World Report | Nationally Ranked |
| Best Undergraduate Teaching | U.S. News & World Report | #61 (historical) |
| Online Business Programs | U.S. News & World Report | #88 |
| Graduate Medical Education (Primary Care) | U.S. News & World Report | #109 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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