Criminal Justice | Western Technical College

Criminal Justice

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Associate Degree

Program Number: 

105045

Credits: 

62.00
Financial Aid Eligible

Typical Start: 

Fall

Pursue a rewarding career in the field of criminal justice with the knowledge and skills acquired through this associate degree program. At Western, you'll gain the expertise needed to make meaningful contributions to community safety and well-being. Coursework spans a wide range of subject matter essential for entry-level criminal justice professionals, emphasizing the integration of theory and practical application.

With this degree, you'll have the opportunity to pursue specialized certifications in law enforcement and jail operations by enrolling in and successfully completing the respective academies offered at Western. Additionally, for those aiming to further their education, Western maintains transfer agreements with many local universities, creating a seamless pathway to attain a bachelor's degree in criminal justice or related fields.

Courses are conducted at Western's state-of-the-art Public Safety Training Facility in Sparta and are taught by full-time educators, law enforcement officers, and supervisors recognized as leaders in law enforcement training.

To view the Criminal Justice program’s required disclosure on professional licensure, please click here.

Criminal Justice Image
Estimated Program Costs

Estimated Program Cost

Criminal Justice

This program will cost about $10,177* based on tuition and basic program fees. There may be additional fees for books, materials, and testing. For more information on tuition costs, view the Tuition page or Cost of Attendance document.

* Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Graduation Employment Stats

Criminal Justice 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats

Graduates79
Graduates Responding34
Employed in Related Occupation8
Employed in Non-related Occupations5
Seeking Employment1
Continuing Education19
Not in Labor Market20

Salary Data - Related Employment

Part TimeFull Time
Responding30
Average Hours Per Week23
Average Hourly Wage$19.13
Hourly Wage Range$18.26-$20.00
Average Annual Salary

Respondents in Related Occupations

  • Civilian Service Employee, Residential Treatment Specialist, Server

Career Opportunities

Police Officer
Deputy Sheriff
Jailer
Security Officer
Law Enforcement Officer
State Patrol Officer

Program Outcomes

  • Living responsibly
  • Refining professionalism
  • Cultivating passion
  • Illustrate the interrelationships of the three core components of the criminal justice system
  • Analyze situational responses
  • Apply communication skills as a criminal justice professional
  • Conduct investigations
  • Examine the professional code of ethics for a criminal justice practitioner
  • Explore personal wellness strategies for the criminal justice professions
  • Explain the role of criminal justice professionals in working with diverse populations

Admission Requirements

College Requirements

Application
$30 Application Fee

Additional Requirements

To enroll in the Criminal Justice program, first apply for admission to the College, then read the program’s Essential Functions and complete a background check.  You can find links to these documents below. The last step for admission to the program will be to complete an Intent to Enroll form. Please see the details below.

Software and Technology

Most of Western’s classes require the use of a personal computer or laptop, standard software, internet access, and other technology-related items.

If you do not have a personal computer or laptop, or if the one you have does not meet the following criteria, resources may be available. Submit a Student Resource Request using our online form.

Computer/Laptop Hardware

  • Smartphones are not recommended for completing assignments.
  • Chromebooks are not recommended due to issues with installing software that is needed for classes, such as Office 365.
  • Web camera with microphone (usually built into newer laptops or can be purchased separately) is necessary for online participation.

Software Needs

For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.

Campus Resources

Need Assistance?

  • Contact the Learning Commons! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.

Transfer Agreements

University of Wisconsin-Stout
Viterbo University

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