If you have a passion to serve—and an interest in law, security, and justice—then welcome to Ball State’s Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology. Pick one of our degree programs and graduate equipped for a variety of exciting and rewarding careers within the criminal justice system at the local, state, and national levels.

Your course of study will include opportunities for immersive learning, in-depth research, and hands-on internships. You’ll also learn from some of the best professors in the country—all of whom have real-world experience in criminal justice—and additionally benefit from criminal justice honor societies, social organizations, and career fairs to help you make connections with working professionals and agencies to land the perfect job.

Students entering the Department of Criminal Justice and Criminology will need to possess a personal computer. Please view information about College recommendations for the specifications for your device.

Ball State criminal justice graduate in uniform as police officer

Criminal Justice and Criminology Major

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science

If you have a passion to serve and protect the vulnerable and better understand the causes of crime and delinquency, then our degree in criminal justice and criminology is for you. You may pursue this degree either on campus or onlineLearn more.

female student smiling

Minor in Criminal Justice

A minor in criminal justice will help you understand the American criminal justice system, the philosophies and practices of various correctional programs, and the techniques and theories of law enforcement—valuable information for any social scientist or legal professional. Learn more.


Digital Forensics Minor

Minor in Digital Forensics

This on campus minor gives you knowledge and experience in the areas of digital forensics, criminal investigation and evidence, criminal law, and computer science. Learn more.

Law enforcement scuba

Minor in Law Enforcement Scuba

This on campus minor will prepare you for employment in a water-related work environment, including public safety diving teams and evidence recovery for police departments. Learn more.

Indiana State Capitol Police, photo c. Schwen, 2008

Associate's Degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology

Associate of Arts

Ball State’s associate of arts degree in criminal justice and criminology provides an accelerated path to the professional world and will help you compete for mid-level management positions. You may pursue this degree either on campus or online. Learn more.

Curriculum Development and Leadership

Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice and Criminology

Develop the leadership skills you’ll need to navigate the landscape of crime, drugs use, correctional settings, and other facets of law enforcement with our 12-credit, online certificate graduate certificate. Learn more.

 Learn about a Degree in Data Analytics

Data Analytics is an emerging interdisciplinary field with three concentration areas in Computational Data, Environmental Systems, and Social and Behavioral. Find out more about a degree in Data Analytics.