Criminal Justice Degree

The Criminal Justice degree emphasis at Western Colorado University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections. This Bachelor of Arts program combines academic theory with practical application to prepare graduates for careers in criminal justice and public service.

The Criminal Justice emphasis focuses on the three main institutions that make up the criminal justice system: crime, courts, and corrections. Through a dynamic blend of courses like Constitutional Law II and Psychopathology, you will critically examine the social constructions of social control and deviance, theories of crime and criminality, sentencing, punishment, alternate forms of punishment and rehabilitation. Students in the Criminal Justice degree program explore topics such as criminal law, criminology, ethics, and justice administration. The BA in Criminal Justice emphasizes critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and real-world problem solving.

To get a better sense of which career path you’ll want to take, industry professionals will teach some of your courses, including a law enforcement course taught by a local police detective and law courses taught by a chief district judge. Before graduating, you’ll have the opportunity to complete an internship in your area of interest including sheriff’s departments, police departments, domestic violence centers and other advocacy programs. Prepare for a meaningful career in public service with Western’s Criminal Justice degree program.

Frequently Asked Questions

What will I learn in a criminal justice degree program?

A criminal justice degree program covers topics such as criminal law, policing, courts, corrections, criminology, ethics, and the justice system. Students develop analytical, communication, and decision-making skills applicable to public service careers.

What careers can I pursue with a criminal justice degree?

Graduates with a criminal justice degree pursue careers in law enforcement, probation and parole, corrections, federal agencies, court administration, legal support roles, and public safety.

How does a degree in criminal justice differ from criminology?

A criminal justice degree focuses on the structure and operation of justice institutions, while criminology emphasizes the study of crime causes, patterns, and social impacts. Criminal justice programs are typically more applied and career-oriented.

Is a criminal justice degree a good foundation for law school or graduate study?

Yes. A criminal justice degree provides a strong foundation for law school and graduate programs in public administration, criminology, or homeland security.