Fascinated by society and the social behavior of groups? Want to learn how to use your knowledge to help people—like at-risk youth and the elderly—and bring about social change? You can make a difference when you major in Sociology, Criminal Justice, or pursue your graduate studies in Crime and Justice studies at Suffolk University.

The Sociology & Criminal Justice Department offers undergraduate and graduate courses in topics such as Youth in American Society, Women and Crime, and Restorative Justice. Our Department is home to the Center for Women's Health and Human Rights, The Women and Incarceration Project, Our Bodies Ourselves Today, and a variety of other exciting projects and programs.

Suffolk's ideal location in downtown Boston makes it easy to gain first-hand experience in the city's many distinct neighborhoods and communities. Our Department's faculty and students are interested in a wide range of social issues and apply their skills in Boston-area schools, prisons, shelters, and communities dealing with crime.

Read more about current research, events and programs in the Department of Sociology & Criminal Justice.

Mission Statement

Suffolk’s Sociology & Criminal Justice Department is committed to rigorous, cutting-edge scholarship and teaching that are designed to promote social justice. We study and teach about a wide range of social issues and work on these issues in Boston-area schools, prisons, shelters, and communities dealing with crime.

Our research is drawn upon by policy makers at the federal, state, and local levels. We are a diverse department, welcoming, respecting, and holding high expectations for all students.

Undergraduate Programs

At Suffolk, you can pursue a major in Sociology or Criminal Justice.

You also can complement your studies with a minor in Youth & Community studies, or a teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) certificate. Many of our students choose to double major in Sociology and in Criminal Justice in order to broaden their understanding of the broader social forces that shape crime and justice.

Graduate Program

Suffolk’s Master of Science in Crime & Justice Studies program will get you ready to excel in the career of your choice—corrections, juvenile justice, victim advocacy, court and offender services, probation, policy, or other criminal justice fields.

Earn your crime and justice studies master’s degree right in the heart of downtown Boston, near the State House, City Hall, medical facilities, detention facilities, and municipal and federal courts. Thanks to Suffolk, your co-op and internship opportunities will be unmatched.
"I wouldn't be where I am today in my career if it weren't for the welcoming and supportive environment the faculty at Suffolk provided."
David Parilla Jr., BS in Sociology '09, MSCJS '12 Director of Data & Research - Heading Home

Undergraduate

Graduate

Graduate Dual Degrees

Keep Exploring​

Sociology & Criminal Justice Department

Suffolk's sociology and criminal justice offerings will prepare you to be an effective change agent in your world.

Continue Your Studies

The hands-on graduate degrees and research opportunities that Suffolk's offerings in sociology, criminal justice, and education will help you make the biggest difference in your community and the world.

College of Arts & Sciences

Suffolk offers a wide variety of programs ranging from traditional majors such as Biology and Journalism, to new interdisciplinary programs such as Politics, Philosophy, and Economics. Expand your mind and gain hands-on experience.

Student Services & Resources

Suffolk University’s College of Arts & Sciences will help you prepare for your future whether you decide to explore career options or continue your education and professional development.

More Suffolk to Explore​

Suffolk University offers many ways to expand your education outside the classroom with opportunities on our campus in the heart of Boston, study abroad, & more.