B.S. in Administration of Justice

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Administration of Justice at Mississippi College, offered through the Department of History and Political Science, is designed to prepare students for leadership roles within the broad criminal justice field. This program emphasizes critical thinking and a deep understanding of the major components of the justice system—police, prosecutors, courts, and corrections—and their interconnectedness within a democratic society. It explores the social, economic, and political factors that contribute to crime and delinquency, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to develop practical, ethical solutions. Mississippi College's program is highly regarded, with College Factual ranking it as the number one Criminal Justice and Corrections bachelor's degree in the state and among the top in the Southeast, offering traditional and online formats, and also includes emphases in Homeland Security and Loss Prevention.

Curriculum: The B.S. in Administration of Justice curriculum at Mississippi College is comprehensive, providing a solid foundation in criminal justice theory and practice. Core courses often include Introduction to Criminal Justice, Police Process, Judicial Process, Corrections Process, and Criminology. Students also delve into related areas such as Legal Research & Bibliography, and Constitutional Development. For those pursuing the 3+3 Law program option, additional courses in legal studies are integrated. The program offers three main areas of emphasis: general Administration of Justice, Homeland Security, and Loss Prevention, allowing students to specialize based on their career interests. Across all emphases, the curriculum is designed to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and an understanding of the legal, social, and ethical frameworks of the justice system.

Research Focus: The B.S. in Administration of Justice program at Mississippi College incorporates a strong research focus, particularly evident in its specialized centers and projects. Students are encouraged to develop analytical skills to understand and address the complexities of crime and justice. A notable example is the Center for Counterterrorism Studies, which provides unique opportunities for Homeland Security and counterterrorism students to conduct real-world research in intelligence analysis using open-source intelligence. Projects like "Project Arrowhead" aim to identify commonalities among individuals prone to radicalization, providing valuable data for intervention strategies. This hands-on research, often in partnership with local law enforcement agencies, allows students to apply classroom knowledge to real-time predictive analysis, honing skills essential for careers in intelligence and counterterrorism.

Industry Engagement: Mississippi College's Administration of Justice program demonstrates significant industry engagement, preparing graduates for successful careers through practical experience and direct connections. The program emphasizes internship opportunities, allowing students to gain invaluable hands-on experience within various local, state, and federal criminal justice agencies, as well as in private security companies. The department's focus on areas like Homeland Security and Loss Prevention directly aligns with the needs of contemporary industries. Furthermore, the strong faculty, many with backgrounds in law enforcement and security, bring real-world insights into the classroom, ensuring the curriculum remains relevant and responsive to industry demands. This commitment to practical training and professional connections ensures graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles in law enforcement, security management, and public service.

Global Perspective: Mississippi College is committed to fostering a global perspective throughout its academic programs, and the B.S. in Administration of Justice inherently contributes to this. While focusing on the U.S. justice system, the program addresses issues that often have international dimensions, such as terrorism, transnational crime, and global security. The emphasis on Homeland Security, for instance, naturally involves understanding international threats and cooperative efforts. Discussions on ethical frameworks, human rights, and the social ramifications of justice policies often draw comparisons to international systems and challenges. The university's diverse international student population also enriches classroom discussions, bringing varied cultural viewpoints to the study of justice. Overall, the program prepares graduates to understand that justice issues transcend national borders and to operate effectively in an increasingly interconnected world.