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Criminal Justice

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Explore the dynamic Criminal Justice program at the University of Maine, where students build a strong foundation in criminology, sociology, and justice systems. Core courses like Criminological Theory, Corrections, and Law & Society emphasize research, ethics, and social responsibility. Engage in real-world experiences and specialized electives in areas like domestic violence, forensics, and constitutional law. Prepare for impactful careers in law enforcement, legal fields, or public service with a degree focused on justice, critical thinking, and community engagement.

This interdisciplinary major is offered by the Department of Sociology.

The Criminal Justice major provides a liberal arts perspective on the structure, functioning, effectiveness, and impact of the criminal justice system in the United States. Your coursework will prepare you for a wide range of careers in or related to criminal justice.

Learn to think critically about the operation and impact of policing, courts, and corrections, including evidence of gender, racial, social class, and other inequalities in these components.

Criminal justice faculty are deeply committed to high-quality undergraduate instruction and offer a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds. 

Faculty research and instruction are guided by their commitment to public criminology, or the use of criminological and criminal justice research in the service of an equitable society. 

Karyn Sporer

Chair, Department of Sociology


Fernald Hall, Room 201G
 207.581.2361 | karyn.sporer@maine.edu