Making a meaningful impact on the criminal justice system may seem daunting. Such a complex system requires insight, knowledge, and expertise to successfully change. Fortunately, a bachelor’s degree in sociology offers a unique pathway to having a consequential impact on the criminal justice system by equipping individuals with a deep understanding of social behavior, inequality, and institutional dynamics.
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Sociology online program from the University of Mount Saint Vincent (UMSV) is one avenue for ambitious students in search of a career that allows them to make a difference in this way. This degree will enhance students’ ability to think critically about complex social issues involving the criminal justice system, while also expanding their knowledge of social structures, institutions, and organizations. It’s a program designed to meet the needs of working professionals. Those passionate about the criminal justice system have the option to pursue a specialization in criminology and justice. While becoming a sociologist typically requires at least a master’s degree, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), UMSV’s online bachelor’s degree is a good first step.
Becoming a Criminal Justice Advocate
Some of the most important foundational concepts for sociologists working on issues related to criminal justice are sociological theories of crime. These theories focus specifically on the root social causes of crime, helping experts examine external conditions that contribute to criminal behavior, rather than the characteristics of a particular individual.
“Unlike psychological or biological perspectives, sociological theories focus on how societal conditions, interactions, and institutions shape individuals’ behaviors and choices,” according to LawBhoomi. “These theories propose that crime often arises from social inequalities, lack of community cohesion, limited economic opportunities, or the pressures individuals face within their social environments.”
Sociology and Social Justice Policies
Sociologists can also have an impact on criminal justice policymaking. As a complex social structure, the criminal justice system is an ideal site for sociological analysis. According to eSoft Skills, “Sociology is key in making policies based on evidence. It gives deep insights into social structures and culture. This knowledge helps create better policy solutions.”
Most of the time, sociologists assist legislators and other policymakers as advisors. For example, according to The Craft of Sociological Research, sociologists often “provide services, by researching what particular communities need and how to deliver those services effectively. They measure the performance of government agencies, and they collect and assess the evidence in favor of or against certain policy reforms.” When it comes to criminal justice, sociologists might consider factors like crime rates and recidivism when weighing the impact and value of any policy.
The Time is Now to Pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
The world needs passionate individuals with a desire to make a meaningful difference on criminal justice issues. But changing a complex system takes knowledge and expertise. A BA in Sociology degree can help set you on the right path. For example, UMSV’s online program offers courses like Criminology, which provides students with a sociological examination and analysis of crime and theories of crime causation, as well as Foundations of Justice, which according to the program page is an “analysis of the organizational and human dimensions of agencies in the administration of justice, with emphasis on the nature of law enforcement, the court system and its processes, as well as prisons and rehabilitation agencies.”
By applying sociological insights to the criminal justice system, one can contribute to the creation of a more equitable and just society. Making an impact on the criminal justice system will take time and hard work, but by applying sociological insights, you can contribute to creating a more equitable and just society and work toward lasting change and reform.
Learn more about the University of Mount Saint Vincent’s online Bachelor of Arts in Sociology program.
