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Criminal Justice

Look beyond theoretical concepts with hands-on learning, diverse practical electives, and a strong emphasis on restorative justice.

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminal Justice

MVNU’s Criminal Justice program goes beyond theory, featuring extensive opportunities for hands-on experience and a wide range of practical electives. Emphasis is placed on justice as a pursuit of ultimate restoration for offenders, victims, families, and communities, within an ethical framework that is focused on rehabilitation and redemption.

The program offers a selection of courses that prepare students to work in this highly diversified field, seeking justice for the perpetrators and victims of delinquent or criminal acts. This emphasis on restorative justice connects the program directly to the mission of service at the heart of MVNU.

You’ll be offered the opportunity to visit and study prisons and correctional facilities, spend a day with the Columbus SWAT team, participate in mock investigations and execute search warrants, and work closely with local authorities.

Criminal Justice Curriculum

See what it takes to fight for justice through a Christ-centered lens. Explore courses designed to help you make a real difference.

Faith & learning at MVNU

At MVNU, our Christian faith is at the core of everything we do. Whether it’s opening class with prayer, diving into Scripture, or examining real-world moral and ethical challenges, we’re committed to shaping students who live out their faith with purpose. Here, you won’t just learn — you’ll be transformed.

Travel

Our travel and study afar programs are more than just an opportunity to see the world — they’re a chance to grow in your faith while experiencing new cultures. Whether you’re serving in communities across the U.S. or learning abroad, each journey is designed to broaden your perspective, deepen your compassion, and equip you to live out your callings in a global context — all while adding valuable experience to your résumé.

Service Learning:
  • Belize (Tropical Biology)
  • Swaziland
  • Haiti
  • Croatia, Austria & Hungary
  • Italy
  • Spain, Portugal & France
  • Greater Columbus Area
  • Orlando
  • San Francisco
  • New Orleans
  • Washington, D.C.
  • Guyana
  • Guatemala

Criminal Justice Scholarships

Need a little help with finances? We’ve got you covered. Explore scholarships, grants, and other resources to help you pay for your education.

MVNU has many endowed scholarships available for students of a wide variety of backgrounds and majors.

Get the Facts

Career growth in this field varies based on specialty. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, protective service personnel have the potential to earn an annual salary of up to $94,020.

By the year 2029, employment for police officers, corrections officers, detectives, and other careers is expected to change at varying rates. The variance in growth rates means MVNU graduates have numerous opportunities to take advantage of in-demand occupations.

Up to $94,020 Annual Salary

Careers in Criminal Justice

MVNU’s Criminal Justice program has grown to become a popular major on campus, with excellent employment and graduate school outcomes for students.

With a Criminal Justice degree, you could pursue careers in: adult probation or parole; criminal and private investigations; juvenile probation, parole or corrections; community-based corrections; federal, state or local law enforcement; or institutional corrections. Or, you could go on to law school or seek an advanced degree in a criminal justice field.

Whatever path you choose, a degree from MVNU will prepare you to carry out your career ethically and successfully.

PROBATION, PAROLE, OR CORRECTIONS

Work with youth and/or adults who are in a correctional institution, on probation, or parole and help them navigate the system.

COMMUNITY-BASED CORRECTIONS

Work with courts to sanction appropriate offenders in the community saving incarceration spaces for violent offenders.

LAW ENFORCEMENT

Join federal, state or local law enforcement as you protect and serve in whatever capacity you’re called.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Join ranks with Homeland Security, fire departments, EMS professionals, and more and respond swiftly to crises.

HUMANITARIAN AGENCIES

Work with non-profit, faith-based, and even governmental agencies like the Red Cross, Amnesty International, or the U.S. Military and FEMA.

BUSINESS

Help ensure business continuity, risk management, and compliance to ensure justice in the walls of an organization or the halls of government.

Criminal Justice MVNU Mount Vernon Nazarene University homeland
Criminal Justice MVNU Mount Vernon Nazarene University police officer

Meet the Faculty

Learn from faculty members who know how to balance theory and practical application for a relevant, empowering, Christ-centered learning experience.

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