Å·ÃÀÊÓƵ is collaborating with Minnesota State Community and Technical College (M State) to introduce a new criminal justice minor to give students the opportunity to explore big questions about crime and justice and how those two processes interact.
The innovative minor blends the depth of a liberal arts education with the hands-on, career-oriented training of a professional program.
“There is a significant societal need for well-informed and broadly trained professionals in justice work,” said Dr. Leila Zakhirova, director of Concordia’s criminal justice program. “Students can develop a deeper understanding of justice not only as a legal principle but as a moral commitment to the well-being of the community.”
Students will begin with core criminal justice courses at that provide specialized instruction in the field to examine the root causes of criminal behavior, the structure of the justice system, and how social, political, and legal institutions respond to crime. They will then transition to Concordia courses for a diverse selection of courses in the social sciences, humanities, and sciences.
“The criminal justice minor supports Concordia’s mission of preparing students to influence the affairs of the world by giving them the tools to contribute meaningfully to their communities,” Zakhirova said.
The minor offers a wide range of elective courses in sociology, psychology, political science, religion, communication, and social work, allowing students to tailor their experience to their interests and career goals.
Whether students are considering law enforcement, legal advocacy, public administration, or social work, the program builds critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills essential for justice-related professions.
Graduates with this minor will be well-prepared for a variety of impactful careers, including:
Police officer, correctional officer, or parole officer
Juvenile justice counselor or case manager
Public policy or homeland security analyst
Legal careers or preparation for law school
Social work and human services roles
To enhance their learning experience, students minoring in criminal justice can participate in student groups such as Mock Trial, Pre-Law Society, and Student Government Association (SGA).
“These organizations offer valuable opportunities to apply classroom learning in real-world scenarios before starting their careers,” Zakhirova said.