Our criminal justice (CJ) program introduces key social, political, economic, and philosophical issues affecting the justice system in the U.S. and abroad. With rising crime rates, prison overcrowding, domestic abuse, and terrorism, the demand for qualified graduates has never been greater. As a CJ major, you'll learn about the causes and dynamics of crime, the functions of various agencies, and the overall operation of the criminal justice system while developing practical skills to create evidence-based solutions for today’s evolving challenges.
Program Type: Major, Minor, Concentration
Offered: On Campus, Online, AU-ABC, at BSC
Credit Hours: 120
Est. Time to Complete: 4 Years
Department: Department of Behavioral Sciences and Criminal Justice
Career Opportunities
The focus of Minot State’s undergraduate education in criminal justice is directed toward the development of both applied practitioners and the advanced training of those seeking to pursue a master’s or doctoral degree.
96%
Job/Graduate School Placement Rate
Program Highlights
MPD Apprenticeship Program
Minot State’s Criminal Justice program, in partnership with the Minot Police Department, now offers a tuition-covered apprenticeship program for students pursuing careers in law enforcement. Eligible students gain hands-on experience as part-time community service officers while completing their degree, with tuition covered for up to two years. Upon graduation, participants commit to serving as full-time officers with MPD for a minimum of three years, combining academic learning with real-world training and public service.
Learn with Minot State
Our curriculum is one of the most comprehensive in the upper Midwest and is delivered in both traditional and online formats. The course of study addresses issues in each component of the criminal justice system.
Air University Associate to Baccalaureate Cooperative (AU-ABC)
Minot State partners with the Community College of the Air Force (CCAF) to support our Airmen. In just 60 semester hours, you can earn a bachelor's degree beyond your associate degree. Our strong connection with Minot Air Force Base ensures you'll receive the support you need, and our Military Resource Center staff is ready to assist active duty members, veterans, dependents, and spouses throughout the application process.
Careers & Outcomes
64K
Median annual salary for probation officers
→ U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Top Careers
- Patrol Officer
- Compliance Officer
- Correctional Officers and Jailers
- Supervisor of Police & Detectives
- Detective & Criminal Investigators
Questions? We're Here to Help
Office of Enrollment Services
701-858-3350
1-800-777-0750 ext 3350
askmsu@minotstateu.edu
Dr. Gary Rabe
Professor
701-858-3507
gary.rabe@minotstateu.edu
Additional Program Information
Minot State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
