Criminal Justice
- Associate Degree
Program Number:
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Estimated Total Cost:
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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 [1] 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 [2].
Criminal Justice 2021, 2022, & 2023 Graduation Employment Stats
| Graduates | 79 |
| Graduates Responding | 34 |
| Employed in Related Occupation | 8 |
| Employed in Non-related Occupations | 5 |
| Seeking Employment | 1 |
| Continuing Education | 19 |
| Not in Labor Market | 20 |
Salary Data - Related Employment
| Part Time | Full Time | |
|---|---|---|
| Responding | 3 | 0 |
| Average Hours Per Week | 23 | |
| 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
Program Outcomes
- 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:
Application Fee:
Program Specific 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.
- Criminal Justice Technical Standards [3]
- Criminal Justice Background Check [4]
- The background check is required but will only be used for career advising purposes and not for determination of admittance to the Criminal Justice program.
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 [7].
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
- Western uses the Blackboard Learning Management System. Some courses may use Zoom or Microsoft Teams to meet and work virtually. Visit our website for guidance on how to access and use these tools [8].
- Office 365 (available to download for free once you have a student email)
- Recommended web browsers: Chrome or Firefox
For detailed specifications, please review Technology and Software Recommendations for Most Classes [9] on Western’s IT Knowledgebase.
Campus Resources
- Western has several computer labs available. Visit our website to find open hours and locations on the La Crosse campus [10]. Or find information on how to access resources on our Regional Locations web page [11].
- The Learning Commons has computers, webcams, and microphones available for in-house use. Our librarians recommend checking your local public library for computer access on the weekends. Staff members can also provide information on free, off-campus Wi-Fi spots. Contact them at LearningCommons@westerntc.edu [12] or call 608-785-9198.
Need Assistance?
- Contact the Learning Commons [13]! The staff are happy to answer questions, provide individualized assistance, and direct you to other supports as needed.
Courses
Western offers most courses in a 7-week format, but course length can vary. There are two 7-week sessions in each term, so courses listed below may not be taken at the same time. See www.westerntc.edu/7-weeks [14] for more information.
This course list gives you an idea of what coursework will be required but is not the official list. Current students should use the MyWestern [15] self-service portal for academic planning.