For those seeking to make a meaningful impact on the criminal justice system, a solid foundation in social science research is essential. This foundation enables students to study the complexities of crime, justice and societal factors that influence criminal behavior. Avila University’s online Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminology and Justice Studies program provides students with the research and communication skills needed to address these issues.
Courses like Social Stratification, Intro to Sociology and Social Statistics provide students with essential social science methodologies that are crucial for conducting research in the field of criminal justice. These courses help students do the following:
- Understand social structures and inequalities. By studying social stratification, students learn how societal hierarchies and inequalities contribute to crime and victimization.
- Develop critical thinking skills. Sociology courses encourage critical thinking skills, enabling students to analyze complex social problems from multiple perspectives.
- Master data analysis techniques. Social statistics courses provide students with the quantitative skills needed to collect, analyze and interpret data, allowing them to make evidence-based conclusions.
- Acquire qualitative research methods. Students learn qualitative research techniques, such as interviews, observations and document analysis, to understand social phenomena.
Evidence-based Policy in Criminal Justice Reform
Evidence-based policymaking in criminal justice involves using careful research to inform decision-making and carry out effective interventions. By relying on empirical evidence, people can develop effective and equitable strategies. Students pursuing justice studies should consider the following seven key facts about crime and offenders based on historical research:
- Crime tends to be concentrated in specific locations, with a small number of places accounting for a large portion of criminal activity.
- Crime rates fluctuate based on time of the day, day of the week and season of the year. Violent crimes often peak during nighttime and weekends, while burglaries typically happen during the daytime.
- A small group of repeat offenders is responsible for a significant portion of criminal activity. Taking these high-rate criminals out of action can lead to a substantial reduction in crime.
- The social costs of crime, including victim costs, legal fees and lost productivity, are disproportionately high for violent crimes.
- Criminal activity typically peaks in early adulthood and declines as people age.
- Offenders tend to participate in various criminal activities rather than specialize in one specific type of crime.
- Criminals often operate within social networks that support and encourage their criminal activities.
The Narratives of Criminal Justice: Make Criminal Justice More Just With Avila University
The narratives of criminal justice shape public perceptions and influence policy decisions. These narratives often focus on sensationalized crime stories while perpetuating stereotypes and fear. It is important to challenge these narratives and promote a more nuanced understanding of crime and justice.
Social stratification, the hierarchical arrangement of individuals and groups in society, significantly impacts access to justice. People from lower socioeconomic groups may face systemic barriers, such as limited legal representation, discriminatory policing and harsher sentencing. Understanding social stratification is essential for developing equitable and effective criminal justice policies.
By integrating social science methodologies into their studies, students in Avila’s online B.A. in Criminology and Justice Studies program can contribute to a more just and equitable society. By analyzing data, conducting research and questioning common beliefs and stereotypes, they can help shape evidence-based policies that address the root causes of crime and promote social justice.
Learn more about Avila University’s online Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Justice Studies program.
