Criminology, Law, and Justice
Criminology Law and Justice: Explore My Major Heading link
Criminology, Law, and Justice Heading link
The UIC Department of Criminology, Law, and Justice is a thriving academic community of scholars, teachers and students who are dedicated to studying all aspects of crime and justice, as well as societal reactions to both. Faculty examine the social, cultural, and political forces that shape the definitions and content of criminal law and influence policy choices about how to respond to particular crime problems.
In this program, students study the individual, social, and structural forces that influence criminal behavior and examine the functioning of crime control systems.
See how other students found their fit below with this major!
Alumni Highlights Heading link
Below is a sample of how UIC alumni have applied their CLJ major to a professional path!
- Clinical Coordinator, UI Health
- Detective Sergeant, Village of Palatine
- Family Resource Specialist, Illinois Action for Children
- Claims Adjuster, Allstate Insurance
- Immigration Program Analyst, U.S. Department of Labor
- Juvenile Justice Specialist, Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice
- Police Officer, Chicago Police Department
- Presidential Management Fellow, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
- Program Coordinator for Community Violence Prevention Program, Child and Family Guidance Centers
- Youth Employment Specialist, Central States SER
Unique Skills and Competencies Heading link
In addition to the foundational set of skills and competencies you will acquire in any liberal arts and science major, there are also unique skills and perspectives you gain from your CLJ major.
Review the list below to learn more:
- Understand the criminal justice system’s operations in historical and contemporary perspective
- Distinguish among criminological theories and apply them to real-world situations
- Explain and critique research on crime, criminal justice, and victimization
- Develop communication skills involved with presenting criminological research to the public
- Sharpen analytical skills entailed in discerning the impact of criminal justice policies
- Consider justice system alternatives for better serving marginalized populations
- Exposure to careers in criminal justice and community engagement
Industry Clusters Heading link
There are many workplace settings, industries, and career areas in which you can apply your major based on your professional interests. Below is a sample list of industry clusters that other CLJ majors have transitioned into. What type of setting or career focus appeals to you?
- Arts, Media, and Communication
- Business and Entrepreneurship
- Corrections and Law Enforcement
- Education
- Forensics
- Government, International Affairs, and Public Service
- Healthcare and Wellness
- Information Technology
- Law and Legal Services
- Research/Policy Studies
- Social Services
Criminology, Law, and Justice Advising Webinar
Meet Nina Botros! Heading link
“I am double majoring in Psychology and Criminology, Law, and Justice (CLJ). I know that I found a fit with my majors due to the fact that I like helping others and both majors can support this interest in unique ways. Both of my majors helped me understand how to deal with people properly and more importantly understand their needs and different situations they are struggling with.”
Meet Emily Kubaitis! Heading link
“I’m pre-law with a specific interest in international relations. I hope one day to be able to merge my knowledge of the French language and culture with my criminology / law studies.”