Criminal Justice and Human Security

The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Human Security at the University of Bridgeport offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for diverse careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, homeland security, and related fields. This innovative program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and practical skills necessary to address complex issues related to crime, security, and human rights in a rapidly changing global landscape. Students will explore topics such as criminal law, juvenile justice, corrections, homeland security, intelligence analysis, cyber security, and human rights, gaining a well-rounded understanding of the criminal justice system and the factors that influence human security worldwide.

The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, including case studies, internships, and research projects, to ensure students are ready to meet the demands of their future professions. The program also emphasizes the importance of cultural competence, diversity, and social responsibility, preparing graduates to work effectively with diverse populations and contribute positively to their communities. Through courses taught by experienced faculty members with backgrounds in law enforcement, security, and criminal justice, students will develop essential skills such as investigative techniques, crisis management, risk assessment, and policy analysis.

Graduates of the program will be equipped to pursue careers in law enforcement agencies, federal security organizations, non-governmental organizations, private security firms, and international agencies focused on human security initiatives. The program also offers a solid foundation for students interested in advanced studies or careers in research, policy development, and advocacy related to crime prevention and human rights. With the growing importance of security issues in an interconnected world, the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice and Human Security at the University of Bridgeport prepares students to become effective professionals committed to justice, security, and the betterment of society.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline July 1 is the last date to apply for the Fall Semester which begins late August/early September;November 1 is the last date to apply for the Spring Semester which begins mid-January Tuition fee

• USD 30965 Year (National)
• USD 30965 Year (International)

Start date September 2015 Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time More information Go To The Course Website

Course Content

The Criminal Justice and Human Security program requires 39 semester credit hours including 18 credit hours in the program core, 15 credit hours in one of the concentrations, and an additional 6 credit hours in a diversity requirement (one course from each of the other two concentrations). The program will require students to show modern language competency in Arabic, Chinese, Korean, Japanese, Russian, French or Spanish through the intermediate level (four semesters). Students are required to complete 120 credit hours to graduate.

Program Core Courses (required)

• SOC/CJHS 118 Introduction to Criminal Justice
• CJHS 218 Human Security
• SOC/CJHS 315 Criminology
• SOSC 300 Research Methods
• CJHS 395 Senior Thesis1
• CJHS 398 Internship

Human Security Concentration (5 required out of these 6)

• PSCI 207 World Politics
• PSCI/CJHS 215 International Human Rights
• PSCI/CJHS 371 Terrorism
• SOC 355 Globalization
• WREL 375 Religion and Genocide
• GLDP 422 International Conflict and Negotiation

Comparative Justice Concentration (5 required out of these 6)

• PSCI 101 American Government
• CJHS 118 Intro to Crim Justice
• PSCI/CJHS 233 Intro to US Legal System
• CJHS 343 Constitutional Law
• CJHS 345 Comparative Criminal Law
• CJHS 372 Transnational Crime

Criminology Concentration (5 required out of these 6)

• SOC/CJHS 270 Sociology of Deviance
• SOC 310 Race, Class and Gender
• SOC/CJHS 311 Juvenile Delinquency
• SOC 355 Globalization
• CJHS 271 Law Enforcement and Society
• CJHS 312 Victimology

Internships can be arranged through the Chair of Criminal Justice and Human Security or through the Office of the Dean of the College of Public and International Affairs. Please contact the office of the Dean at 203-576-4966 or through ext. 4966 if your are on campus.
1Subject to approval of the Department Chair, a student may choose an additional CJHS elective in lieu of the thesis.

Careers in Criminal Justice and Human Security

The program will define the emergence and implications of human security and explore its impact on both domestic and international levels. You will become part of a cadre of security professionals who demonstrate the language skills and intercultural understanding required for effective law enforcement in today’s globalized society. You will also be prepared for admission to graduate study in Criminal Justice and Homeland Security programs and for careers in domestic and international security. Career tracks:

• ATF Agent
• CIA Agent
• Coast Guard Officer
• Corrections Officer
• Crime Scene Investigation
• Criminologist
• Customs Agent
• DEA Agent
• FBI Agent
• INS Agent
• Police Officer
• Probation Officer
• Secret Service
• Sheriff
• U.S. Marshall

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6 TOEFL paper-based test score : 500 TOEFL iBT® test : 61

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

take an IELTS test.

Requirements

You can demonstrate proof of English Language competency by meeting any one of the criteria listed below:

1. A letter certifying completion of level 6 at the University’s English Language Institute (ELI).
Attainment of a satisfactory score on the University of Bridgeport’s English Language Assessment Battery (ELAB).

2. A minimum TOEFL score of 500 (PBT), 173 (CBT), or 61 (IBT) for undergraduates and a minimum score of 550 (PBT), 213 (CBT), or 80 (IBT) for graduates (post-graduates).

3. A minimum IELTS (Cambridge Testing) Band score of 6.0 for Undergraduates and a minimum Band score of 6.5 for graduates (post-graduates).

4. A transcript from an accredited American university indicating a grade of “C” or better in one semester of college English Composition.

5. Critical Reading SAT score of 400 or above; or ACT English score of 19 or above.

6.An official letter certifying completion of ELS (English Language Service) through level 112.

7.An official letter certifying completion of CSE (The Center for English Studies) through level 7.5.

8. A Michigan English Assessment Battery (MELAB) score of 69 or above for undergraduates and score of 77 or above for graduates.

9. A Prueba de Aptitud Academica (PAA) English achievement score of 500 or above.

10. A level of “Advanced” on the English Language Proficiency Test of the College Board.

11. An official “O” level or “A” level Certificate indicating a grade of “C” or better in English.

12. An EIKEN score of Grade 2A or above for undergraduates and a score of Grade Pre-1 or above for graduates.

13. A score of 4 or better on the “English A” Higher Level examination in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program.

14. WAEC, WASSE, CXC, etc. – Score of “C” or better on English Language exam.

15. A minimum Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) score of 44 for undergraduates and a minimum PTE Academic score of 53 for graduates (post-graduates).

You must demonstrate English language competency in one of the ways listed above. If you don’t demonstrate English language competency in one of these ways prior to registration, you will be given the University English Language Assessment Battery (ELAB) test upon arrival. If you pass at a satisfactory level, you may begin classes.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Alumni Study Travel Fund

  Scholarships for students who are already attending the University of Reading.

• Amsterdam Merit Scholarships

  The University of Amsterdam aims to attract the world’s brightest students to its international classrooms. Outstanding students from outside the European Economic Area can apply for an Amsterdam Merit Scholarship.

The University of Bridgeport offers a comprehensive program in Criminal Justice and Human Security designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the fields of law enforcement, homeland security, corrections, and related areas. The program emphasizes the development of a strong foundation in criminal justice theories, criminal law, ethics, and the social sciences, alongside practical skills necessary for effective application in real-world scenarios. Students have the opportunity to engage in coursework that covers a broad spectrum of topics including criminology, criminal justice administration, forensic science, investigation techniques, juvenile justice, and public safety policies.

The curriculum integrates both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, often incorporating internships, research projects, and case studies to enhance students’ understanding of the criminal justice system and human security issues. Students learn about contemporary challenges such as terrorism, cybercrime, drug trafficking, human trafficking, and domestic violence, and explore strategies for prevention and intervention. The program also emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, combining insights from political science, law enforcement practices, psychology, and social work to foster a holistic understanding of security concerns impacting communities.

University of Bridgeport’s faculty members are experienced practitioners and scholars committed to mentoring students and providing up-to-date knowledge reflective of current trends and legislative changes. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for careers in federal, state, and local agencies, private security firms, non-profit organizations, and international agencies. They often pursue roles such as criminal investigators, security analysts, policy makers, victim advocates, and consultants.

The program also offers opportunities for specialization through electives and minors, enabling students to tailor their education towards specific interests such as cybersecurity, emergency management, or international security. With modern facilities, a diverse student body, and a supportive learning environment, the University of Bridgeport aims to prepare its graduates not only for employment but for leadership roles in advancing justice and human security globally and locally. The program’s accreditation and affiliation with professional organizations further enhance its reputation and students’ career prospects upon graduation.