Criminal Justice encompasses multidisciplinary examinations of crime, crime control, the justice process, and justice institutions. The discipline addresses definitions, causation, prevention, investigation, legal process, treatment, rehabilitation, and research relating to crime and justice as well as the institutions of the justice system and their administration.

The Criminal Justice program at Sacramento State is one of the most highly sought after programs in Northern California. Due to the large number of applications, the program is now officially impacted. Students wishing to become Criminal Justice majors must complete a series of required lower division courses and then must apply for admission to the program. It is highly recommended that interested students speak with a Criminal Justice advisor as soon as possible.