12 Nov HU: Degree in Criminal Justice Coming in 2014

Next fall, Huntington University will launch a degree in criminal justice. This Bachelor of Arts degree will prepare students for careers in corrections, juvenile justice, law, criminology, addictions, and public policy.

“Criminal justice careers frequently involve working with people who have violated the law or who are victims of law violations,” said Dr. Mary Ruthi, professor of sociology at HU. “With the skills gained from our program, students will be able to show God’s love to people who are experiencing these difficult situations.”

Along with classroom instruction, students will be required to take an internship to gain real-world experience. Elective courses will help students cater their degree to their interests. A minor in criminal justice also will allow students to enhance their degrees in pre-law, psychology, political science, sociology or social work.

Jamie Hotchkiss, a 1996 HU grad and now an Indiana State Police trooper, commented, “Criminal justice taught at schools like Huntington could greatly benefit the criminal justice system overall. As in any profession, integrity and service are essential in law enforcement, and HU already has those core values.”