Administration of Justice (Criminal Justice) Degree - Bachelor of Arts (BA)
Prepare for a career within the justice system.
If you have your sights set on a career within the justice system, Catawba College’s Bachelor of Arts in the Administration of Justice degree may be the perfect academic major for you. This multi- and inter-disciplinary program is offered at the institution which U.S. News ranks #4 among Best Regional Colleges in the South.
The Administration of Justice major draws on the strengths and distinctive aspects of both the liberal arts and professional programs at Catawba and prepares students for careers in criminal justice, law enforcement, and court operations. In addition, incoming freshmen students majoring in Administration of Justice at Catawba College may be eligible for a scholarship upon acceptance to the College.
In small classes taught by engaged and inspiring faculty, Administration of Justice majors gain an understanding of political institutions and issues confronting the justice system. Students also grow in their knowledge of the sociological and psychological theories and issues associated with the justice system, including the use of research methods and analysis, as well as an understanding of theories and approaches to management, organizational behavior, and ethical considerations needed for decision-making and leadership roles in the criminal justice system. Administration of Justice majors also develop an understanding of the theories and applications of forensic science as they acquire analytical and conceptual skills needed to understand and solve practical policy issues facing the administration of justice in society.
To better ensure their competitiveness and success in the workplace, it is recommended that Administration of Justice majors gain conversational expertise in a foreign language, particularly Spanish.
Administration of Justice Program Highlights
Catawba College’s Administration of Justice major combines areas of study including politics, law enforcement, criminal justice, corrections, criminal investigations, sociology, psychology, management, ethics and chemistry. Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Administration of Justice are required to complete an internship as part of their coursework, and they are encouraged to gain conversational fluency in a foreign language, with Spanish being recommended.
Administration of Justice majors are provided a broad-based approach to the study of law enforcement and criminal justice while focusing on key skills that are critical in today’s workplace: excellent communications skills, honed through writing assignments, oral presentations, and visual presentations; critical thinking skills enhanced through reading assignments and class discussions; analytical problem-solving skills; and a deeper appreciation of the importance and values of governance and citizenship.

Administration of Justice majors at Catawba College can build up their resume and acquire professional skills by completing a required internship at regional law firms, in the Rowan County Courts System, at area police and sheriff’s departments, with social services departments, local government agencies, or at area correctional and detention facilities.