The Department of Sociology offers a criminal justice major for those who wish to pursue employment and/or further study in criminal justice occupations.  The program at Oneonta has a "criminological" focus, which is to say that we concentrate on the causes and consequences of crime, community relations, and analysis of criminal justice policy.  There are advantages to a "liberal arts" approach, namely that there is considerable focus on writing, research, critical thinking, and analysis.  Because the program is situated in a sociology department, a student who is somewhat unsure has the flexibility to switch to a track of the sociology major should career plans change, such as a student who decides to go to law school (liberal arts track) or become a prison counselor (human services track).  There are disadvantages as well, specifically that occupational training (such as firearms use and self defense courses) are not offered through the Department (although some such courses may be available in other departments) and do not generally transfer into the major from other schools (although can count toward the college elective requirements).  The program requires the completion of an internship; Criminal Justice professionals may apply for a waiver from this requirement.  The department also offers a Criminal Justice minor.

 ^{Program requirements are subject to change.  Please consult the Sociology Department for the latest requirements.  Requirements as shown in the Course Catalog take precedence over those shown here.}