The Criminal Justice Studies Program at the University of North Dakota was established in 1974 with grant support from the Law Enforcement Assistance Administration of the U.S. Department of Justice. Since its inception this interdisciplinary program has pooled the resources of the departments of political science, Psychology, philosophy, sociology, and criminal justice. The program of study leads to a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Studies from the College of Arts and Sciences, and prepares the graduates for positions in criminal justice professions as well as further education in graduate criminal justice programs. In addition, many graduates continue their education in law schools. The program also provides opportunities for current professionals to upgrade their education and for individuals to pursue a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice.

The mission of the Department of Criminal Justice is broadly subsumed within the three functions of teaching, research and service to achieve the production and dissemination of knowledge guided by the principle of a just system of social regulation and control in the advancement of societal well-being. The goals of the teaching mission are achieved primarily through direct classroom instruction supplemented by experiential learning opportunities grounded in establishing foundations for lifelong learning. The research mission addresses both basic and applied research intended to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the discipline of Criminal Justice as well as operational issues confronting criminal justice agencies and institutions. The Department of Criminal Justice meets its service mission through participation in departmental, college, and university governance, as well as involvement in professional and community activities that contribute to the betterment of the criminal justice discipline, the community and society.