Western Carolina University

How this program compares

Benchmark this program against our national recognition pages and use the key guides below to evaluate ROI, admissions difficulty, and outcomes.

Admission Snapshot

Typical admitted student: High school diploma or GED required with minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0; SAT/ACT scores optional for most programs.

About This Program

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

Career Outcomes

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

• 1. Police Officer
• 2. Corrections Officer
• 3. Probation Officer
• 4. Criminal Investigator

What You'll Learn

• Analyze causes and patterns of criminal behavior through criminological theories.
• Apply ethical principles to decision-making in criminal justice systems.
• Conduct criminal investigations including evidence collection and preservation.
• Understand operations of policing, courts, and corrections within the U.S. justice system.

Curriculum Highlights

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

Top Employers

Top employers include local police departments, state correctional facilities, federal agencies like the FBI, and county sheriff's offices.

Admissions

High school diploma or GED required with minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0; SAT/ACT scores optional for most programs.

Application Materials

• Statement of Purpose: Optional
• Letters of Recommendation: Optional
• Resume: Optional
• Transcripts: Official transcripts required

Academic Requirements

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