Criminology and Criminal Justice – Community Safety, Law & Social Change, BS

The community safety, law and social change concentration in the Bachelor of Science program in criminology and criminal justice helps you explore innovative and equitable approaches to public safety, legal reform and community well-being. This program emphasizes strategies for reducing harm and victimization that extend beyond traditional criminal justice responses.

You learn about emerging approaches to safety — including crisis response teams, transformative justice practices, and community-led initiatives. You also examine the social impacts of law and policy, as well as efforts to build trust, accountability and resources within communities. Through the curriculum, you gain a deeper understanding of how safety can be achieved through prevention, collaboration and structural change.

Courses are taught by nationally recognized faculty with expertise in community justice, legal advocacy and social change, and by professionals engaged in shaping real-world alternatives to the current system. You’re encouraged to participate in internships, applied research and community engagement opportunities that provide hands-on experience in building safer, more just communities.