Insight into the Criminal Justice Major at Rutgers?

I've been considering applying to Rutgers for their Criminal Justice major. Has anyone done this program or know anything about it? Like, how are the faculty, classes, and opportunities for practical experience? Any input will be super helpful.

Rutgers University has a renowned School of Criminal Justice (SCJ). It's recognized for its interdisciplinary curriculum—drawing from sociology, psychology, and law—which prepares students by providing them a thorough understanding of justice systems.

The faculty at SCJ is largely composed of leading scholars in criminological and justice-related research. They contribute new knowledge to the field of criminal justice, add breadth to the classroom experience, and often welcome student assistance on ongoing research projects.

The courses generally encompass a wide range of topics, including law enforcement, corrections, the legal system, and crime causation. What's particularly beneficial is the school's emphasis on integrating theory with practical applications. Apart from traditional coursework, the major involves research and data analysis aimed at providing solutions to current issues in criminal justice.

One great aspect of SCJ is the opportunities for internships that it offers. Many students intern with local New Jersey law enforcement agencies or legal firms. Some students seek internships in Washington D.C., often with government agencies. These internships provide the chance to apply classroom learning in real-world scenarios.

In addition, the school also provides opportunities and assistance for students who wish to seek employment in the field upon graduating. Through its Career Development unit, the SCJ maintains ongoing relationships with dozens of potential employers, resulting in a wide array of job placement opportunities in federal, state, and local criminal justice agencies.

However, before making your decision it's always a good idea to reach out to some recent alumni of the program or the admissions office to get a deeper insight. The admissions office should be able to help you connect with current students or alumni, and possibly even some faculty members who could provide additional perspectives on their program. They may also be able to help you arrange a visit, if you haven't done so already.