Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
What is a B.S. in Criminal Justice?
Criminal Justice is a program within the Department of Social Sciences combining aspects of criminal justice, sociology, social work, psychology, history and law. Students study with a variety of instructors with expertise in law, juvenile delinquency, counseling, corrections, probation, parole and law enforcement. Students develop a broad range of communication skills through discussions, presentations, and writing. These skills provide an excellent foundation for careers in law enforcement, probation, parole, counseling, and law. Students will experience lectures, class discussions, and hands on training in a variety of law enforcement areas. Students are also required to complete a two hundred (200) hour internship which must occur during a semester of study. The hallmark of this program is its flexibility. Many courses are offered during evening hours to accommodate working individuals. The program also offers transfer credits for approved state police, municipal/local police, and correction academy graduates. West Liberty University also offers a minor in Criminal Justice.
Am I a good candidate for the Criminal Justice program?
If you have an interest in law enforcement, probation, parole, law, or counseling, are willing to work hard and enjoy challenging yourself then you are a good candidate for the Criminal Justice program. You will need to be self-disciplined and able to attend class on a regular basis and meet the deadlines of those classes. You should also have the desire to and enjoy working with the general public.
What are the opportunities in the field of Criminal Justice?
The need for Criminal Justice professional is always going to exist. For example, the country has been experiencing an explosion of individuals in the corrections system. As a result, there is going to be a need for individuals to supervise, treat, counsel and arrest those who violate the law. A Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice can lead to the following careers:
- Law enforcement officer (federal, state, county, municipal)
- Corrections (federal, state, county)
- Counseling
- Probation (adult and juvenile)
- Parole
- Law
- Private security
Criminal Justice Honor Society (Eta Mu Chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma)
Alpha Phi Sigma, the National Criminal Justice Honor Society, is not a fraternity or sorority. It is a society formed to recognize outstanding scholastic achievement in the study of Criminal Justice. Not only is it an honor for you to be invited, it is recognition of your hard work. The requirements for the Criminal Justice Honor Society at West Liberty University are that you be a student at West Liberty University; have completed three semesters of study; have completed at least four Criminal Justice courses; maintain a 3.2 overall GPA; and maintain a 3.2 GPA in your Criminal Justice courses.
For more information, contact Dr. Keith Bell.
- Academic 4-Year Plan(s)
- BS-Criminal Justice 4 Year Plan