The criminal justice system involves the punishment, correction, and rehabilitation of criminals. It is designed to protect society by deterring future crime, and to compensate the victims. As such, the discipline of criminal justice brings together law, psychology, and sociology.
The field of criminal justice research has advanced significantly in the last few decades. This is largely thanks to the efforts of researchers and policy makers to develop and test new policies. These have been implemented in four key components of the criminal justice system: police, courts, corrections, and intervention practices.
The earliest and most prominent research in the field was in the form of a report, commissioned by the U.S. government and published by the National Institute of Justice. The report outlined how the criminal justice system functions and the benefits of several reforms. Most notably, it reported on the existence of a “courtroom work group” consisting of the judge, defense attorney, and prosecutor.
While the courtroom work group isn’t strictly a scientific concept, the group did help lead to an impressive number of innovations. Some of these include the creation of a sentencing guideline, which dramatically lowered the disparity in sentencing for similar crimes. Other studies explored the effectiveness of prison rehabilitation programs.
Other innovations in the field include the development of the “smart watch”, which uses technology to help prevent crimes. In addition, the https://brescia.uwo.ca/undergraduate/criminal_justice.php United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has been working on various projects aimed at criminal justice reform.
A major in the field also provides students with a variety of career opportunities. Many students have found internships at local law offices, mental health units, and even county jails. Others have attended professional meetings and organized hands-on activities, such as a senior SOAR capstone. Students have also had the opportunity to pursue transformational internships in other cities, such as New York City, to gain experience in the criminal justice system.
The best way to prepare for a successful career in criminal justice is to study the subject in depth. By taking the right courses, gaining an in-depth understanding of the subject, and taking advantage of the numerous resources available, you’ll be prepared to enter the workplace. You’ll be equipped with the skills necessary to make informed decisions about the laws and rules that govern your community.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in the field, you’ll need to earn a bachelor’s degree. Some colleges, such as Iona University, offer a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice that includes an in-depth look at the many facets of the legal system. Another option is to earn a master’s degree in criminal justice or forensic science. Although these types of degrees typically require a four-year college degree, some states allow for a two-year degree to qualify for positions such as police officer or corrections officer.
Majoring in the criminal justice field provides students with an excellent foundation for careers in the fields of law enforcement, forensic science, public safety, or private security. Students can also choose to pursue a concentration in the area of their choice.