Criminology and Criminal Justice

B.S. Criminology and Criminal Justice

Let’s face it: Crime happens.

And if you want to solve crime, study it or seek out justice, you’ve come to right place.

Our Criminology and Criminal Justice program is the largest and oldest in Hawaii, offering theory-based and experiential learning experiences, a suite of internships and career development programs, and a supportive, vibrant and innovative learning environment.

Our bachelor’s degree prepares our graduates to pursue careers in law enforcement, public safety, criminal justice or criminology or an advanced degree, including in law or criminology research. Our curriculum gives students an understanding of: the complexities of the American criminal justice system, causes of crime, criminal justice law and research and the basic techniques of crime scene investigation.

We are particularly proud of the immersive learning experiences we offer students. In crime scene re-enactments, for example, students learn a host of invaluable skills such as how to secure a crime scene, interview a witness and properly collect and preserve evidence. We also offer a number of exciting and unique electives, including underwater evidence recovery.

Experiential Learning

Internships are available through various agencies that allow you to gain firsthand knowledge in criminal justice. Our undergraduate curriculum is based on direct correspondence with the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences, and course offerings include interactive crime scene investigation and comprehensive law courses.

Immersion Learning Experiences provides hands-on experience opportunities. In our crime scene reenactments, students learn by immersing themselves in various situations which they will encounter in their careers, such as securing a crime scene, interviewing witnesses and properly collecting evidence.

Learning from peers allows you to acquire new skills from those who have experience in their fields. Throughout many course offerings, students will be joined by active police officers, members of the armed forces and government agencies.