Department of Criminology, Law, and Justice

Contact Information: 
Campus Location: 4022 Behavioral Sciences Building (BSB) 
(312) 996-5290 
clj.uic.edu

Administration: 
Department Head, Amie M. Schuck
Associate Department Head, Lisa Frohmann
Director of Undergraduate Studies, William McCarty

Criminology, law, and justice is a social and behavioral science field of study that selects crime, law, and the criminal justice system for its subject matter. Using social science methodologies, the program examines the nature, extent, and causes of crime in various settings, the impact of crime on victims and society, and both formal and informal responses to crime. These responses include individual and community reactions, the investigation of crimes and arrest of offenders by the police, and their prosecution, defense, and adjudication by the courts; and an array of sentencing and correctional outcomes. The nature and effectiveness of criminal justice reform efforts are also studied.

The degree prepares graduates for a broad range of professional roles in the criminal justice system, advocacy, as well as the broader legal system. It also serves as entry to graduate programs of criminal justice and related research and professional programs such as law, sociology, public administration, paralegal studies, public health, and various social services.

Distinction

Departmental Distinction. A candidate must have a 3.50/4.00 cumulative GPA in all criminology, law, and justice courses and a 3.25/4.00 cumulative GPA in all UIC courses.

High Distinction. A candidate must have a 3.50/4.00 cumulative GPA in all criminology, law, and justice courses, a 3.25/4.00 cumulative GPA in all UIC courses, and complete a paper written for CLJ 399, which will be reviewed by a faculty advisor and the Departmental Undergraduate Committee. Qualified students should contact the departmental undergraduate director one term in advance of graduation.