The Bachelor degree in Criminal Justice major emphasizes a multi-disciplinary and experiential approach to crime, justice, and the reduction of violence. It is a liberal arts major that requires students to think critically, communicate effectively, and to contemplate and appreciate alternative viewpoints. It encourages students to take both an analytical and active approach to criminal justice.

Pursuing a Bachelor in Criminal Justice shows students the “working side of the street,” encouraging them to interact with people on the front lines of the criminal justice system and to confront real-life issues. Courses in the major take students to criminal justice sites such as corrections facilities, police departments, courts, and community agencies. Classes will involve guest speakers who discuss first-hand experiences with specific aspects of criminality and crime prevention.

     Students who complete the Bachelor in Criminal Justice program may go on to careers in law enforcement, corrections, social work, the justice system, or law. Whether or not they pursue employment in any of these areas, students will leave with a deeper understanding of crime and justice in contemporary American society.

The criminal justice department is not like any other I’ve seen, it’s a strong group of driven individuals that morphs into a family every year. Nothing is impossible for this department; within one semester I was able to go to Washington, DC on a trip to see the FBI training academy, DEA, visit the Supreme Court, and so much more. I also had the chance in the same semester to see the NH State Troop Aviation unit as well as visit both the NH men’s and women’s prison in Concord and Goffstown. I have no question in my mind that I made the right choice by coming to NEC and enrolling in the Criminal Justice department. So many doors have opened up in the field with the connections I’ve made on the trips I’ve had the chance to take apart in as well as the presenters that come into the classroom.  -Megan McGowen Class of 2011

I transferred from Salve Regina to NEC in the fall of 2008. A little nervous I didn’t get any criminal justice classes, I started the school year; I got all general education classes, Writing 1020 being one of them. My Professor, Susan Nagelson, told me about an internship at the Women’s Prison in Goffstown. So, I met with Professors Larry Taylor and Susan Nagelson, rearranged my schedule and did the internship. It was one of the greatest experiences I've ever had. I think that is one of the best qualities of NEC,  the fact that they encourage students to take internships. Working with the women in the prison was definitely a college memory/experience I'll always remember.

-Megan McDevitt Class of 2011

"The New England College Criminal Justice program promotes a positive learning environment, which instills confidence in your own skills while encouraging you to step into new roles as a leader.  Professors are available to meet students' needs in order to pursue their desired career path.  The Criminal Justice program is further benefited by the College's Criminal Justice Club (NECCJC), which provides you with opportunities to see, learn, and network with professionals in law enforcement, corrections, law and legal practices, probation and parole, juvenile justice services, etc. at the local, state, and federal level. New England College gave me the confidence to apply to the Washington Center program in Washington, DC, where I had the opportunity to intern as an investigator for the Montgomery County Office of the Public Defender.  This experience provided me with an accurate portrayal of the issues you will face, along with providing me with real life experiences, which I could reflect upon in the classroom.  Furthermore, the NEC classes gave me an excellent overview of the ethical decisions, present issues, and terminology I will be faced with working in the criminal justice field." - Daniel Thwaits, Class of 2009

Meet the Criminal Justice Faculty

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