Criminal Justice, B.A., B.S.
Grand Valley criminal justice students focus on crime and violent behavior from viewpoints grounded in the traditional humanities and the social sciences. Although they are schooled in the practical knowledge and skills they will need in the profession, students also receive thorough preparation in the arts and sciences.
Program Overview
Grand Valley's unique combination of practical skills training within the context of a liberal arts education prepares graduates for a wide range of careers. The following degrees are offered to criminal justice majors:
- The Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
- The Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
- Minor in Juvenile Justice or Criminal Justice
Visit gvsu.edu/cj for details and additional program offerings.
Why Study Criminal Justice at Grand Valley?
- Grand Valley has one of the largest criminal justice programs in the country and faculty who are nationally recognized for contributions in the discipline.
- Students have the chance to complete an internship in the agency or organization of their choosing.
- Faculty members bring diverse interests and practical experiences in the profession to the classroom.
- There are opportunities to assist faculty with fieldwork, gathering and analyzing data on community issues and programs.
- Grand Valley is known as a leader in the state for police academy training and continually sets the bar for law enforcement education.
Career Insights
This tool shows an overview of potential career opportunities for this major. Actual salaries, employment opportunities, and job titles may change over time.
Location & Format
All undergraduate students begin their academic career on the Allendale Campus. Students in this major continue their upper division studies downtown on the Robert C. Pew Grand Rapids Campus.
Format:- Face To Face
Coursework
Coursework in criminal justice covers a variety of subjects, including:
- Constitutional rights
- Corrections process
- Courts process
- Criminology
- Issues in criminal justice
- Juvenile justice
Combined Degree Programs
This undergraduate degree can be combined with a master's degree to save you time and money, and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, students save $8,500 in our combined degree programs and take up to four fewer classes than if earning the degrees separately.
You can even build your own combined degree from programs in different disciplines to further personalize your education and meet specific career goals.
REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE
Hands-on learning and other fieldwork not only deepen your mastery of your discipline but also give you the edge employers seek. Visit our experience matters page to see the work GVSU students are doing in their co-ops and internships.Admission Requirements
Visit the Admissions website for undergraduate requirements.
Helpful Links
For More Information
School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies
gvsu.edu/cj
289C Richard M. DeVos
Center
(616) 331-7130
“Criminal Justice at GVSU is second to none. The professors, faculty, and advising staff truly care about student success, which is one of the many reasons that the program is one of the best in the discipline.”
CRIMINAL JUSTICE ALUMNUS