NC

Bachelor's in Criminal Justice
Online

Western Carolina University

Western Carolina University

  • Cullowhee
About This Program

Social science–based CJ degree emphasizing leadership, research, and justice administration.

Student Reviews
What You'll Learn

Designed for criminal justice professionals addressing growing emphasis on homeland security. Interdisciplinary social science-based curriculum providing comprehensive understanding of crime, legal issues, research methodologies. One of largest criminal justice programs at WCU. Ranked #25 among top 40 criminal justice programs nationally. Affordable with NC Promise benefit.

For detailed, official program information including specific curriculum, faculty, research opportunities, and application requirements:
Typical Curriculum Structure
Crime problem, legal issues, research methodologies, criminological theory, justice system operations, criminal justice leadership, management, supervision, organizational behavior, human resources, technology in criminal justice, emergency management principles, administration of justice, policing, corrections, victims, criminals, courts
Typical Course Topics
1. Introduction to Criminal Justice 2. Criminology 3. Criminal Law 4. Criminal Investigation 5. Applied Criminal Justice Ethics 6. Corrections
Program Specializations:
Criminal Justice
Administration of Justice
View the exact, up-to-date curriculum on the official program website
Typical Admissions Requirements
High school diploma or GED required with minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0; SAT/ACT scores optional for most programs.
Academic Requirements (Typical)

β€’ Degree Required: High School Diploma or GED
β€’ GRE/GMAT: Not Required
β€’ TOEFL/IELTS: Required for international students (TOEFL 80+ / IELTS 6.5+)

Application Materials (Typical)

β€’ Statement of Purpose: Optional
β€’ Letters of Recommendation: Optional
β€’ Resume: Optional
β€’ Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Application Timeline

Most programs have rolling admissions or deadlines in early winter for fall admission. Check the official program website for exact dates.

Career Opportunities in AI

120 credit hours required; 42 Liberal Studies hours, 48 major hours, 30 elective hours; Criminal justice foundations, Criminology, Criminal law, Social science core, Leadership and management, Supervision, Organizational behavior, HR in justice agencies, Policy analysis, Emergency and Disaster Management minor option, Internship option (CJ/EDM 483) for up to 12 credit hours

Industry Data: The following salary and job data reflects typical industry trends for AI professionals, not specific to New York University. Individual outcomes vary based on skills, location, and experience.

Estimated Industry Salary
Criminal Justice Professional: $65,000
Total compensation (entry to mid-level)
AI Job Growth
3.0%
Projected 2024-2034 (BLS)
Common Career Paths:
1. Police Officer 2. Corrections Officer 3. Probation Officer 4. Criminal Investigator
Top AI Employers (Industry-Wide):
Top employers include local police departments, state correctional facilities, federal agencies like the FBI, and county sheriff's offices.
Program Details
Duration
  • 4 Year
Tuition
  • 6,500
Format
Online
Specializations
Criminal Justice
Administration of Justice