Department of Criminal Justice & Criminology
Explore crime, justice, and public safety through rigorous study and hands-on experience. West Liberty University’s Criminal Justice program develops ethical, communication, and real-world skills for careers serving communities and advancing justice.
Where justice, service,
and real-world experience meet.
West Liberty University’s Criminal Justice Department offers a comprehensive, student-focused education grounded in theory, ethics, and experiential learning. Students learn from dedicated faculty and gain practical experience that prepares them for meaningful careers or advanced study in the justice field.
Degrees Offered
- Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminal Justice
- Minor in Criminal Justice
Degree
Pathways
The Criminal Justice Department offers flexible academic pathways designed to support both traditional students and working professionals. Each program balances academic foundations with applied learning to support a wide range of career goals.
Program overview
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice provides a broad foundation in criminal justice systems, criminological theory, ethics, and professional practice. Students gain hands-on experience through a required internship and graduate prepared for entry-level careers or graduate and professional study.
Ideal if you want to:
- Pursue a career in law enforcement, corrections, probation, parole, victim services, and case management
- Prepare for law school or graduate study in criminal justice or criminology
- Gain real-world experience through an internship before graduation
- Develop strong communication and critical-thinking skills
- Grant writing experience
Program overview
The Criminal Justice minor allows students to complement their major with focused study in criminal justice concepts and practices. This pathway is ideal for students seeking added preparation for careers or graduate study related to justice, public service, or law.
Ideal if you want to:
- Add criminal justice knowledge to another major
- Explore interests in law, public service, or community advocacy
- Strengthen your understanding of crime and justice systems
Training
Facilities
Learning spaces that support discussion, analysis, and applied practice.
Facilities & Technology Include:
- Crime scene lab
- Modern classrooms for lecture and discussion-based learning
- Access to campus academic and research resources
- Technology-supported presentation and communication tools
Students benefit from learning environments that promote collaboration, critical thinking, and professional communication—skills essential to success in the criminal justice field.
Careers in
Criminal Justice
Career Paths
Criminal Justice graduates educated at West Liberty University are prepared for diverse career paths, including:
- Law enforcement (federal, state, county, or municipal)
- Corrections and detention services
- Probation and parole
- Victim services and counseling
- Private security and investigative services
- Law school or graduate study
Graduates serve society by promoting public safety, ethical decision-making, and informed justice practices within their communities.
Mission, Vision
& Values
The Criminal Justice Department is dedicated to educating ethical, knowledgeable, and engaged professionals who contribute positively to the justice system and society.
Core Values:
Ethical responsibility · Community service · Critical inquiry · Professional integrity · Experiential learning
The curriculum emphasizes analytical thinking, ethical reasoning, effective communication, and real-world application to prepare students for complex justice environments.
Graduate
Competencies
Graduates demonstrate competence in:
- Understanding criminal justice systems and institutions
- Applying criminological theories to real-world issues
- Ethical analysis and professional decision-making
- Written, oral, and visual communication
- Career planning and professional development
- Applied practice through supervised field placement
Student Resources
& Engagement
Students and alumni benefit from a wide range of departmental resources and engagement opportunities, including:
- Faculty advising and mentoring
- Internship and field placement coordination
- Career planning and professional preparation
- Opportunities for honor society involvement (Alpha Phi Sigma)
- Alumni and professional networking connections
Contact the
Department
Have questions about programs, admissions, or career pathways? Our faculty and advisors are here to help you take the next step.
Dr. Keith Bell
Professor of Criminal Justice
West Liberty University
Phone: 304‑336‑8376
Email: kbell@westliberty.edu
Become A
Hilltopper
West Liberty University is a place where you can pursue your dreams and prepare for the future. With more than 60 programs, a vibrant campus life, small classes, and an affordable cost, the quality education you’ll get at West Liberty is like no other.