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Criminal justice faculty member working with students and inmates.

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.

Visit the program website for more information.

Students are admitted directly into this program.
Available as a minor.

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

Many GVSU undergraduate programs can be combined with an existing master’s degree program to save on tuition and get you into the workforce sooner. On average, you can save $8,500 by pursuing a combined degree and take up to four fewer courses than if earning the degrees separately.

Talk with an advisor about how you can build your combined degree from existing programs to further personalize your education and create your own niche area of expertise.

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.

For More Information

School of Criminology, Criminal Justice, and Legal Studies

gvsu.edu/cj
289C Richard M. DeVos Center
(616) 331-7130

Admissions and Recruitment Office

gvsu.edu/admissions

 

“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.”

BENJAMIN WALKINGTON
CRIMINAL JUSTICE ALUMNUS