Criminal Justice

Examining Ethics and Responsibility in Law Enforcement

Criminal Justice (On Campus Program)

A Comprehensive Look at Crime and Justice

The Criminal Justice major at Simpson goes far beyond policing. You’ll examine crime, criminal behavior, and justice through a wide lens — analyzing root causes and evaluating how society responds. From understanding why crime happens to studying how institutions and communities address it, you’ll develop the ability to think critically and apply justice theory to real-life challenges.

Courses explore a range of pressing topics including mental illness, substance abuse, immigration, punishment and reentry, and the reimagining of justice in modern society. You’ll also engage deeply with issues of criminalization, systemic disparities, and how justice can — and should — evolve.

View major course requirements

View minor course requirements

Why Simpson College for Criminal Justice?

From Law Enforcement to Global Security

Studying Criminal Justice at Simpson prepares you for a broad range of careers focused on protecting the safety and rights of others. Whether you’re drawn to traditional law enforcement or emerging roles in global security, you’ll gain a deep understanding of how the U.S. criminal justice system works — and how its many parts interact.

You’ll learn to interpret best practices in the field, navigate complex ethical issues, and approach criminal justice with both abstract thinking and real-world problem-solving skills. This program equips you with the knowledge and mindset to lead in a field that is constantly evolving.

Career Ready

Our graduates are prepared to launch successful careers and make an immediate impact in the workforce. Here are a few examples of where Simpson alumni are building their careers:

Ames Police Department
American Federation for Children
Children and Families of Iowa
City of Atlantic Police Department
Indianola Police Department
Iowa Department of Corrections
Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
Story County Police Department

Criminal Justice professor Denise Leifker

Get a Jump Start On A Master's Degree

When you are a junior in the criminal justice program and have a 3.5 GPA or better, you may begin taking courses (up to three) that will give you dual credit in the undergraduate and the Master of Arts in Criminal Justice programs.

If accepted, this advanced standing program is a great option for students who are seriously considering earning a Master’s degree after completing their Bachelor’s degree. You can save tuition costs for one or two semesters and decrease the time required to complete your MACJ.