Minor
Criminal Justice
Explore the foundations of law, justice, and society through Southern Virginia University’s new Criminal Justice minor, designed to connect psychology, sociology, and legal studies to real-world issues.
About the Criminal Justice Minor
The Criminal Justice minor at Southern Virginia University provides students with a multidisciplinary foundation in law, psychology, and social science. Students will examine the structure of the justice system, causes of criminal behavior, and strategies for rehabilitation and reform. With courses ranging from criminal profiling to mental health in criminal justice, the minor complements majors in psychology, history, politics, and related fields.
Through classroom learning and hands-on experiences—including visits to correctional facilities and internships with local law enforcement offices—students will develop practical insights into the complex challenges of crime and justice. Whether pursuing graduate study or preparing for careers in public service, the Criminal Justice minor equips students to think critically, act ethically, and contribute meaningfully to society.
Learning Outcomes
What you’ll learn in the Criminal Justice minor:
- Analyze the causes and consequences of crime from psychological and sociological perspectives.
- Understand the structure and function of the U.S. criminal justice system.
- Evaluate approaches to rehabilitation, punishment, and reform.
- Apply principles of criminal profiling and behavioral analysis.
- Recognize the role of mental health and mental illness in crime, corrections, and community safety.
- Communicate effectively about criminal justice issues in both written and oral formats.
Career Opportunities
A background in Criminal Justice, Criminology, or a related social science provides the foundation for a wide array of challenging and rewarding careers focused on law, rehabilitation, and social advocacy.
- Law enforcement officer
- Probation or parole officer
- Correctional counselor
- Victim advocate
- Forensic or criminal psychologist (with graduate study)
- Policy or legal researcher
- Juvenile justice specialist
- Social service caseworker
Getting Started in the Criminal Justice Minor
Follow these simple steps below to get a head start in the Criminal Justice Minor today.
Enroll
Begin by taking Introduction to Criminal Justice (SBS 105) in your first or second year
Contact Your Advisor
Get in touch with New tabDr. Jeff Batis to discuss your interests and goals.
Declare
Turn in a completed PDFDeclare Minor form to the Registrar’s Office.
Questions? Contact the Registrar at emailregistrar@svu.edu.
Criminal Justice Faculty
Jeff Batis
Professor of Psychology; Psychology Program Coordinator