Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I apply for admission to the major in Justice Studies?

A: Admission criteria are competitive because only a limited number of students will be accepted into the program. Students are admitted into specific concentrations within Justice Studies. Key factors in admission are overall grade point average, grade point average in the first three common core or required concentration Justice Studies courses taken, and grades in similar coursework at another institution. Other factors to be considered are the student’s statement of interest, prior work in the field, leadership positions and references.

To apply, you must submit a statement of interest in Justice Studies. Include information about your background, life experience, interests, and/or goals related to Justice Studies and to the particular concentration you have selected. Additionally, you must provide two references who can address your potential as a Justice Studies major.

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Q: I understand that there are three concentrations in the Justice Studies major. Must  I choose one?

A: Yes. You must choose a concentration: Justice Systems, Child Advocacy, or Paralegal Studies.  You cannot be admitted to the program without a concentration.

Q: How many credits can I overlap between general education courses (GERs) and Justice Studies major courses?

A: There is an unlimited credit overlap between GERs and major courses.

Q: How many credits can I overlap if I have two majors?

A: Double majors can overlap an unlimited number of credits.

Q: Can I take courses in the Justice Studies major on a Pass/Fail basis?

A: Majors are not permitted to take any of the courses in the program on a Pass/Fail basis.

Q: When are courses in the Justice Studies major offered?

A: The Justice Studies major is open to full-time and part-time students. Courses are offered both day and evening so that students can complete the program as day or evening students. Core courses are regularly offered on a day and evening schedule. Electives are also regularly offered, but not both day and evening or every semester. Students should check the list of classes issued for each semester.

Q: How many credits can be transferred into the Justice Studies major from outside institutions?

A: All 15-16 credits of the core must be taken at MSU. A maximum of 50% of 24 - 25 credits within a concentration may be transferred from another institution if it is judged equivalent to corresponding MSU courses. A minimum of 12 credits at the 300 or 400 levels must be completed within the major at MSU.

Q: Can I opt for Paralegal Studies concentration and also declare the Paralegal Studies minor or opt for the Justice Studies concentration with Criminal Justice as a minor?

A: Students in the Paralegal Studies concentration may take any minor except Paralegal Studies. Students in the Justice Systems concentration may take any minor except Criminal Justice.

Q: What Research Methods course should I take if I am a double major in Sociology and Justice Studies?

A: You should take SOCI 301 Research Methods instead of JUST 221. You should also have the Justice Studies Chairperson, Norma C. Connolly, sign a credit adjustment form.

Q: What are the career opportunities for a justice studies major?

A: Program graduates may find employment in: the criminal justice system, social service agencies, law enforcement, the court system, educational settings, law offices, corporations, and federal or state agencies. Possible job titles include: investigator, police officer, human resource officer, paralegal, children's rights advocate, probation or parole officer, research or claims analyst, case worker, and management consultant.