Criminal Justice
Whether your dream is to promote safety within law enforcement, mentor youth in the justice system, or earn the degree needed for a promotion, an SAU education can make it happen.
Our graduates work in law enforcement, juvenile justice, social work, home and business security, as criminal researchers, and more.
Ambrose Advantages
- Theoretical and Practical Application
- Experienced Faculty
- Close Connections and Mentoring
At St. Ambrose you will join a community that promotes justice, study with professors who are experts in criminal law, and have the opportunity to earn your bachelor's and master's degree in Criminal Justice in only five years.
Read our Criminal Justice Program Fact Sheet (pdf)
More Information About the Criminal Justice Program
You will learn about the nature and causes of crime; justification and means of social control; administration of the justice system; and how to evaluate justice programs. Courses include criminal law procedure, offender treatment, juvenile justice, evidence and investigation, forensics, crime theory, serial homicides, and race, gender and class.
Many of our graduates choose to continue their education at St. Ambrose and enroll in our Master of Criminal Justice program. In fact, we offer an accelerated BA-MCJ program to qualified undergraduates, allowing them to earn both degrees in five years.
Criminal Justice majors can work for local, state, and federal criminal justice agencies, including law enforcement, corrections, probation, parole, or juvenile justice. Alumni also work for private and public security companies, children services, judicial offices, and some conduct social research for public, private or non-profit organizations.
You get a lot of return on your educational investment, including personal and professional satisfaction. The Bureau of Labor Statistics cities the median annual pay for law enforcement officers, detectives, and probation offices ranges from $48,190 - $61,600 (2016).
As early as your freshman year, you can participate in the SAU Undergraduate Summer Research Institute. Two examples of research conducted by criminal justice students during the institute involved examining the differences between psychopaths and sociopaths. Another study delved into state and federal prison data regarding educational program usage.
If you are interested in a hands-on internship, our faculty helps match your interests to their community connections. In fact, there are numerous city, county, state, and federal offices and courts in the Quad Cities region which gives you exceptional opportunities for networking, clinical placements, and jobs. Read about the two summer internships that helped Madison Humphrey explore the professional role she wants to play in the field of criminal justice.
Throughout the year, you can attend free community presentations, town hall meetings, and conferences hosted on campus. Many of these events focus on social justice topics and can help expand your learning and professional connections.
Nicole Pizzini, PhD, Chair and Assoc. Professor
Patrick Archer, PhD, Assoc. Professor
Chris Barnum, PhD, Professor
Regina Matheson, PhD, Professor
Jeffrey McCraw, JD, Visiting Asst. Professor
Waylyn McCulloh, MA, Asst. Professor
Shane Soboroff, PhD, Asst. Professor
Grant Tietjen, PhD, Asst. Professor
Carrie Landau '96, '02 MCJ is an FBI special agent in south suburban Chicago, specializing in human trafficking.
Grant Miller '14 added a psychology minor to his criminal justice major and today is Assistant Director of Security at JLL, in Chicago.
Degree Requirements
Required:
Foundational Methods/Understanding (16 credits):
+CRJU 101 Introduction to Criminal Justice
CRJU 200 Research Methods in Sociology and Criminal Justice
CRJU 400 Criminology Theory
CRJU 407 Seminar in Criminal Justice
CRJU 430 Data Analysis in Social Research (4 credits)
Legal/Courts (9 credits):
CRJU 221 Criminal Law and Procedure
+CRJU 316 Juvenile Justice
CRJU 411 The Constitution and Criminal Justice
Corrections (6 credits):
CRJU 231 Contemporary Corrections
CRJU 314 Probation, Parole, and Community Corrections
Law Enforcement (6 credits):
CRJU 102 Introduction to Law Enforcement
CRJU 303 Police, Problems, and Practices
Justice Issues Electives (Choose 6 credits from the following):
CRJU 250, 313, 342, 350, 401, 402, 403, 420, 421, 487, 499
PSYC 321, 325, 328
SOC 220, 235, 342
Required:
+CRJU 101 Introduction to Criminal Justice
CRJU 221 Criminal Law and Procedure
CRJU 400 Criminology Theory
Electives:
An additional six credit hours of criminal justice
WI=writing intensive
+=satisfies general education requirement
This is the suggested plan of study to graduate in four years with a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice.
This plan assumes the student has not met the foreign language requirement (three years of foreign language in high school).
Year One
| Fall | CR | Spring | CR |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRJU 101 Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 | CRJU 231 Contemporary Corrections* | 3 |
| ENGL 101 English Composition | 3 | CRJU Justice Issues Elective* | 3 |
| Philosophy/Theology | 3 | Oral Communication (COMM 129, 132, 230, 228, or 329) | 3 |
| Foreign Language 101 | 3 | Foreign Language 102 | 3 |
| NSS 101 New Student Seminar | 1 | Math 131 or 171 | 3 |
| IL 101 Information Literacy | 1 | KIN 149 Wellness Concepts | 1 |
| Total Credits | 14 | Total Credits 16 |
Year Two
| Fall | CR | Spring | CR |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRJU 102 Introduction to Law Enforcement | 3 | CRJU 200 Research Methods in Sociology and Criminal Justice* | 3 |
| CRJU 221 Criminal Law and Procedures* | 3 | CRJU 316 Juvenile Justice* | 3 |
| Elective/2nd Major/Minor Course | 3 | Elective/2nd Major/Minor Course | 3 |
| Humanities # | 3 | Creative Arts | 3 |
| Natural Science | 3 | Philosophy/Theology | 3 |
| KIN Activity | 1-2 | ||
| Total Credits | 16-17 | Total Credits | 15 |
Year Three
| Fall | CR | Spring | CR |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRJU 400 Criminological Theory* | 3 | CRJU 303 Police, Problems, and Practices* | 3 |
| **CRJU 430 Data Analysis in Social Research | 4 | CRJU 314 Probation, Parole, and Community Corrections* | 3 |
| Elective/2nd Major/Minor Course | 6 | Elective/2nd Major/Minor Course | 6 |
| #PHIL/THEO | 3 | Creative Arts | 3 |
| Total Credits | 16 | Total Credits | 15 |
Year Four
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| **WI-CRJU 407 Seminar in Criminal Justice | 3 | CRJU Justice Issues Elective* | 3 |
| CRJU 411 Constitution and Criminal Justice* | 3 | Elective/2nd Major/Minor Course* | 12 |
| Elective/2nd Major/Minor Course* | 6 | ||
| 300-level Philosophy/Theology | 3 | ||
| Total Credits | 15 | Total credits 15 |
*Prerequisite CRJU 101
** Other prerequisite
WI=writing intensive
# Humanities course must be from two different departments
The BA-MCJ program gives qualified undergraduate students the opportunity to earn a Master of Criminal Justice (MCJ) degree on an accelerated timeframe.
Starting as juniors, qualified students can complete up to 12 credits of graduate-level criminal justice courses that will count toward both their BA and MCJ degrees. This will allow students to complete their master's degree in Criminal Justice in a single year following the completion of the bachelor's degree.
The importance of a master's degree
A master's degree is increasingly the minimum requirement for employment in many agencies, and with more sophisticated homeland security and law enforcement practices on the rise, advanced education is necessary for professionals to keep current and marketable. The BA-MCJ program allows qualified students the opportunity to acquire an advanced education and get a jump start on their careers.
To learn more about this opportunity, talk to Dr. Chris Barnum, Program Director at 563-333-6263.
BA-MCJ Admission Requirements
SAU Criminal Justice majors who have completed at least 60 hours of undergraduate course credit with a 3.2 cumulative grade point average are eligible for admission to the program.
Students may apply to the BA-MCJ program in the fall semester of their junior year. Applications must be completed by October 1.
Accepted students may register for a graduate class in the spring semester of their junior year.Current St. Ambrose students and new transfer students are eligible to apply if they have met the following:
1. Currently enrolled at St. Ambrose University as a Criminal Justice major.
2. Have a faculty advisor from the Department of Sociology and Criminal Justice
3. Completed 60 credit hours
4. Minimum 3.2 cumulative GPAAdmission Criteria
This program is competitive and intended for highly motivated students who excel in the classroom. Applicants will be evaluated on the following:
1. Grade point average (overall and in the major)
2. Interview with the Program Director
3. Letter of recommendation from a professor or employer
Plan to Graduate - BA-MCJ
Once enrolled in the BA-MCJ program, students take specific classes in their junior and senior year to segue into the master's program.
Junior Year
Fall: Apply for admission into program
Spring: MCJ 510 Crime Policy Analysis
Senior Year
Fall: MCJ 550 Applications of Criminal Justice Writing
Spring: MCJ 620 Administration of Justice
MCJ 671 Seminar in Law Enforcement or MCJ 672 Seminar in Corrections
Year One
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRJU 101 Intro to Criminal Justice | 3 | CRJU 231 Contemporary Corrections* | 3 |
| ENGL 101 English Composition | 3 | CRJU 221 Criminal Law and Procedures* | 3 |
| Philosophy/Theology | 3 | Oral Communication (COMM 129, 132, 230, 228, or 329) | 3 |
| Foreign Language 101 | 3 | Foreign Language 102 | 3 |
| NSS 101 New Student Seminar | 1 | Math 131 or 171 | 3 |
| IL 101 Information Literacy | 1 | KIN 149 Wellness Concepts | 1 |
| Total Credits | 14 | Total Credits | 16 |
Year Two
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRJU 102 Intro to Law Enforcement | 3 | CRJU 303 Police, Problems, and Practices* | 3 |
| CRJU 200* | 3 | CRJU 430 (Pre-req CRJU 200) | 4 |
| Humanities # | 3 | Creative Arts | 3 |
| Natural Science | 3 | Philosophy/Theology | 3 |
| Kinesiology-Fitness | 1-2 | Elective | 3 |
| Elective | 3 | ||
| Total Credits | 16-17 | Total Credits | 16 |
Year Three
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRJU 316 Juvenile Justice* | 3 | WI-CRJU 407 | 3 |
| CRJU 400 Criminological Theory* | 3 | CRJU 314* | 3 |
| Philosophy/Theology | 3 | MCJ 510 Crime Policy Analysis | 3 |
| Electives | 6 | Humanities** | n/a |
| Elective | 3 | ||
| Total Credits | 15 | Total Credits | 15 |
Year Four
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| CRJU 411: Constitution and Criminal Justice* | 3 | CRJU Justice Issues Elective | 3 |
| CRJU Justice Issues Elective* | 3 | MCJ 620 Administration of Justice | 3 |
| MCJ 550 | 3 | MCJ Seminar (620, 671, or 672) | 3 |
| 300-level Philosophy/Theology | 3 | Electives | 6 |
| Elective | 3 | ||
| Total Credits | 15 | Total Credits | 15 |
Year Five
| Fall | CR | Spring | CR |
|---|---|---|---|
| MCJ 500 Criminological Theory | 3 | MCJ 507 Master's Seminar | 3 |
| MCJ 531 | 3 | MCJ 530 | 3 |
| MCJ 640 | 3 | MCJ 702 Final Paper | 3 |
| Total Credits | 9 | Total Credits | 9 |
WI=writing intensive
*Needs CRJU 101 as prerequisite
**Humanities course must be from two different departments
Scholarships and Grants
For academic/merit-based awards, eligible students are matched to the qualifying award; some of them are listed below.
For need-based support, eligibility is determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The SAU school code is 001889.
You may also qualify for a scholarship or grant due to your talent in the fine arts or athletics. Give us a call or send an email so we can get to know you and find the best package for you. (You're also encouraged to seek outside scholarships and begin that search early.)
Amounts are for first-year students entering St. Ambrose in the 2019-20 academic year. There is no need to apply for the scholarships or grants below; students automatically are eligible if they meet specific criteria. The Admissions Office calculates the award amount by using unweighted high school GPA and ACT/SAT scores.
Your scholarship will automatically renew each year of your undergraduate studies, for up to four years, as long as you maintain satisfactory progress toward an undergraduate degree, a minimum 2.0 GPA, and remain a full-time student.
On Campus (Merit-Based Scholarships)
Trustee Scholarships
Criteria: unweighted 4.0 GPA and minimum 30 ACT or 1390 SAT score
Award: $23,000/year and invited to compete for a full tuition scholarship
Presidential Scholarships
Criteria: minimum unweighted 3.8 GPA and 28 ACT or 1310 SAT score
Award: $20,000/year
Academic Scholarships
Criteria: based on unweighted GPA and ACT/SAT score
Award: $14,000/year, $15,000/year, $16,000/year, or $17,000/year
University Grants
Criteria: based on unweighted GPA and ACT/SAT score
$12,000/year
On Campus (Additional Institutional Scholarships)
Fr. Welch Alumni Scholarships
Criteria: parent is a St. Ambrose graduate
Award: $1,000/year
Fr. Menke Catholic Parish Scholarships
Criteria: member of a Catholic parish in the Diocese of Davenport
Award: varies
Freeman Pollard Diversity Awards
Criteria: diverse student
Award: $1,000/year
Off Campus (Merit-Based Scholarships)
Academic Scholarships
Criteria: based on unweighted GPA and ACT/SAT score
Award: $11,000/year, $12,000/year, $13,000/year, or $14,000/year
University Grants
Criteria: based on unweighted GPA and ACT/SAT score
Award: $10,000/year
Off-Campus (Additional Institutional Scholarships)
Fr. Menke Catholic Parish Scholarships
Criteria: member of a Catholic parish in the Diocese of Davenport
Award: varies
Freeman Pollard Diversity Awards
Criteria: diverse student
Award: $500/year
At SAU, our international students can qualify for university scholarships and grants based on academic achievement, merit, and their performance and abilities in fine arts and athletics. Below, you'll find a quick summary of some awards and we continually look for ways to make an Ambrosian education even more affordable and attainable. Recently, we began offering athletic scholarships for Marching Band and Esports. If you have any questions or want to apply, please contact the International Student Admissions office.
Institutional scholarships (2018-19)
There is no need to apply for the scholarships or grants below; students are automatically are eligible if they meet specific criteria, although some may require a certain GPA to stay eligible.
Academic Scholarship
$14,000-17,000/year
University Grant
$12,000/year
Athletic Scholarships
We have many international student-athletes who are contributing and growing their skills as valued team players. As a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), St. Ambrose can award athletic scholarships to student-athletes. The amount varies and is based on performance and ability. These scholarships allow you to earn a college education while competing in the sport that you love. At Ambrose, we embody the value of developing both the mind and body.
To qualify for an athletic scholarship you must be eligible to play a sport at St. Ambrose. You can read about those qualifications here. The NAIA also has a complete website on how to register for eligibility at playNAIA.org
To learn more about all of our athletic teams and opportunities -- including esports -- click here.
Fine Art Scholarships
These scholarships are based on your performance and ability in art, music, or theatre, and you may qualify for the Michael Kennedy Theatre Scholarship. Audition or portfolio required. Contact the Admissions office to apply or for more information.
See below to learn more about outside scholarships and we encourage you to begin your search early.
Amounts are for transfer students entering St. Ambrose in the 2019-20 academic year.
St. Ambrose scholarships are awarded for fall and spring semesters only and renewable up to 120 credits of undergraduate study, which includes credits transferred to St. Ambrose from prior attendance. For example: If you transfer in with an AA/AS degree, you would receive a scholarship for two additional years at St. Ambrose.
Scholarships
Phi Theta Kappa
Criteria: awarded to all Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society members transferring from a community college
Award: $14,000
OR
Transfer Academic Scholarships
Criteria: based on GPA
Awards:
3.5-4.00 GPA $13,000
3.0-3.49 GPA $12,000
2.5-2.99 GPA $11,000
2.0-2.49 GPA $9,000
Out-of-State Grants
Criteria: non-Iowa resident
Award: $2,000 per year
Fr. Welch Alumni Scholarships
Criteria: parent is a St. Ambrose graduate; on-campus students only
Award: $1,000 per year
Dual Admission Scholarships
Criteria: participant in SAU/community college dual admission program
Award: $1,000 per year
Freeman Pollard Diversity Awards
Criteria: diverse student
Award: $1,000 per year on-campus; $500 per year off-campus
Federal and State Aid
Federal Pell Grant
Criteria: based on financial need; file FAFSA as soon as possible after Oct. 1
Award: $6,095 maximum
Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
Criteria: based on financial need, priority to Pell Grant recipients. File FAFSA as soon as possible after Oct. 1.
Award: $400 maximum
Federal Work Study
Criteria: based on financial need. File FAFSA as soon as possible after Oct. 1
Award: $1,850
Iowa Tuition Grant
Criteria: based on financial need, Iowa residents only. File FAFSA as soon as possible after Oct. 1, deadline July 1.
Award: $5,650
As a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), St. Ambrose can award athletic scholarships to student athletes. These scholarships allow you to earn a college education while competing in the sport that you love. At Ambrose, we embody that value of developing both the mind and body.
How do I qualify for an athletic scholarship?
You must first be eligible to play a sport at St. Ambrose. You can read about those qualifications here. The NAIA also has a complete website on how to register for eligibility at playNAIA.org
How do I qualify for a fine arts scholarship?
Scholarships are awarded based on performance and ability in art, music and theatre. Review the various requirements below:
There are many opportunities to receive scholarships from outside sources, here are a few websites to begin researching your options:
- Fastweb
- College Board Scholarship Search
- Scholarships.com
- Peterson's Award Database
- Scholly (app download)
Another tip: Next time you're on campus, check out the bulletin board outside Bee Central where we post more flyers and applications for outside scholarships.
Contact
Nicole Pizzini, PhD, Chairperson
Criminal Justice and Sociology
McMullen Hall 014
518 W. Locust St.
Davenport, IA 52803
563-333-6156
PizziniNicoleJ@sau.edu