A society may be judged, perhaps more than anything else, by its system of justice. It is the very pillar upon which a civil society is built. The field of Criminal Justice has become increasingly demanding. Advances in forensic science, criminal psychopathology, data analysis and other technological developments have put valuable but complex tools in the hands of law enforcement and criminal justice professionals. Domestic and international terrorists, cyber-criminals, demands for transparency in government, and expanded concerns about civil liberty and race relations has placed expanded responsibility and accountability upon criminal justice professionals, resulting in additional competency requirements.
The Master of Science (M.S.) in Criminal Justice program at Colorado Christian University provides not only the competencies necessary to be a successful leader in the criminal justice system, but will help students cultivate the character and the courage of moral conviction necessary to be a force for good and to administer justice in a manner based upon biblical principles.
Competency
Consistent with CCU’s vision, mission, and goals, the graduate of the M.S. Criminal Justice program will be a knowledgeable, articulate leader, proficient in all aspects of criminal justice. Graduates of the Master of Science in Criminal Justice should have competencies in the theories and methodologies of the criminal justice system; enhanced application of analysis, decision-making, and problem solving; and an understanding of contemporary management practices; and organizational leadership skills.
Character
When confronted with defining ethics, present-day views tend to think of morals as only a context of cultural beliefs with no finite moral truths. At Colorado Christian University, we believe there are Moral Truths, established by God, and indwelt by the Holy Spirit. The M.S. in Criminal Justice incorporates the infallible Word of God into every subject taught with the goal of nurturing an extraordinary moral character into every program graduate, faithful to the trust bestowed upon them by society.
Courage
To live as a Christian, especially in the law enforcement/criminal justice community, requires courage and strength of character. The graduates of CCU’s M.S. in Criminal Justice should have the resolve and tenacity to use their knowledge and skills to raise the level of professional practice and do what is right, even when that is not the popular course. Master of Science in Criminal Justice graduates should also have the courage to communicate these ideas in order to act as agents for social change, and the faith and strength of conviction to be “set apart” in attitude, manner, and self-control, inspiring confidence and respect for their position of public trust.
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