Degree Requirements
Our interdisciplinary courses will uniquely prepare you for a career in law enforcement and related fields.
Your degree in Criminal Justice will open doors to an array of opportunities, from fieldwork, to lab work, to the courtroom, and beyond. You will be prepared for the impact of rapidly developing technology in the ever-changing world of law enforcement.
Whether you have an interest in working in law enforcement, corrections, probation/parole, with at-risk youth or with victims of crime, Rivier’s B.S. in Criminal Justice program will make your plan a reality.
Watch this video to learn about the Criminal Justice program at Rivier!
With classes in law, behavioral, natural, and social sciences, as well as the humanities, all supported by Rivier’s core curriculum, you’ll develop the interpersonal skills, technology, and critical-thinking skills you’ll need to thrive in the workplace.
In the B.S. in Criminal Justice program, you will:
The department’s faculty bring both a wealth of knowledge and real-world experience to our classrooms, combining expertise in a variety of disciplines including law, political science, sociology, and history. They will guide you as you develop a full understanding of procedures and techniques to prepare you for a successful career in the field of criminal justice.
Your classroom learning will be enhanced by hands-on experiences in the field. You will have the opportunity to go on police ride-alongs, tour prisons, visit courtrooms, and learn from faculty and guest lecturers currently practicing in the field.
You can participate in multiple internships after your first year. These experiences will challenge you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life situations.
A series of foundational courses conclude with a required internship/practicum in a legal setting such as a police department, prosecutor or public defender’s offices, probation/parole officers, victim assistance bureau, or a correctional facility. You’ll leave your internship with an invaluable understanding of the pace and expectations of this unique and demanding calling.
Rivier is a University that honestly cares about you being the best version of yourself and pushes you to reach your full potential.
You will be prepared for a variety of careers in the dynamic and evolving world of law enforcement.
In addition to launching careers in law enforcement, alumni of our criminal justice program frequently enter some of the top law schools and graduate programs in New England. We believe that much of this is due to the exposure, hands-on experience, and networking opportunities offered by our senior year internships and other community-based learning experiences.
Rivier students are compassionate and care deeply about the University, their community and the wider world. They understand that higher education is an opportunity that too many people in this world do not share, and, as a result, they do not take their education for granted.
Our interdisciplinary courses will uniquely prepare you for a career in law enforcement and related fields.
Learn about criteria, how the admissions process works, and what you will need to apply.
Gain exposure to the field of law enforcement and the legal community through resume-building experience.
Faculty will serve as your mentors and guides.
Join the workforce in the dynamic field of law enforcement with the B.S. in Criminal Justice.