Criminal Justice & Criminology
Prepare for impactful careers in law, justice, and public safety.
The Criminal Justice and Criminology program at Kentucky Wesleyan College equips students with knowledge of law, policing, corrections, and criminological theory. Through hands-on experiences, internships, and expert faculty mentorship, graduates are prepared for careers in law enforcement, legal services, public policy, and graduate study.
Criminal Justice & Criminology Program Features
At Kentucky Wesleyan, the Criminal Justice and Criminology major provides both the academic foundation and practical experience needed for a wide range of justice-related careers. Students study criminology, criminal law, policing, and corrections while exploring the causes and consequences of crime. Faculty bring real-world expertise into the classroom, offering insight into the justice system and its challenges. Small classes ensure personalized attention, while engaged learning includes simulations, service-learning projects, and courtroom or agency visits. Internship opportunities with local law enforcement, legal offices, and public agencies provide valuable professional experience. The program emphasizes ethics, problem-solving, and critical thinking, preparing graduates to serve their communities with integrity. With this blend of academic rigor and practical training, KWC students graduate ready to pursue justice-focused careers or advanced education.
Career Paths
Law Enforcement Officer – Police officers protect communities, enforce laws, and respond to emergencies. They serve as the foundation of public safety, with opportunities for advancement into specialized units and leadership roles.
Criminal Investigator – Investigators gather evidence, interview witnesses, and solve complex cases. They work in local, state, or federal agencies, applying analytical skills to uncover the truth and pursue justice.
Corrections Professional – Corrections officers and administrators oversee detention facilities, rehabilitation programs, and inmate services. Their work balances security with opportunities for reform and reentry.
Probation or Parole Officer – Probation and parole officers supervise individuals reentering society after incarceration or serving community-based sentences. They play a critical role in rehabilitation and reducing recidivism.
Legal Assistant / Paralegal – Paralegals support attorneys by conducting legal research, preparing documents, and assisting with case preparation. They are essential in law firms, government offices, and corporate legal departments.
Policy Analyst – Policy analysts research, evaluate, and recommend changes to laws and criminal justice policies. They work for government agencies, think tanks, or nonprofits, shaping the future of the justice system.
Engaged Learning Opportunities
Internships
Criminal Justice & Criminology Program Requirements
The Criminal Justice and Criminology major requires approximately 39–42 credit hours. Core courses include Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminology, Criminal Law, Law Enforcement Systems, and Corrections. Students also complete classes in research methods and statistics, ensuring strong analytical skills. Electives allow students to focus on areas such as juvenile justice, victimology, or constitutional law. A senior capstone integrates learning through research or applied projects, demonstrating readiness for graduate study or professional service. Fieldwork and internships provide opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, strengthening résumés and professional networks. This curriculum combines theoretical insight with practical preparation, giving students the tools to succeed in justice-related fields or law school.
Employers that hire KWC Criminal Justice & Criminology graduates
Graduates of KWC with a Criminal Justice & Criminology degree have gone on to work at organizations like:
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- United States Secret Service
- Kentucky State Police
- Owensboro Police Department
- Daviess County Sheriff's Department
- Commonwealth of Kentucky Administrative Office of the Courts
- Commonwealth Attorneys Office
- Indiana Department of Child Services
