Welcome to our Criminal Justice program, where we prepare students for dynamic careers in law enforcement, corrections, legal studies, victim advocacy, and more. Our curriculum blends theory with real-world application, giving students a deep understanding of the justice system while equipping them with practical skills. With experienced faculty who have backgrounds in policing, law, corrections, and advocacy, students receive firsthand insights into the complexities of crime and justice.
Small class sizes and interactive coursework foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the challenges in the field. Students will benefit from innovative resources and strong partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies. We strive to empower our graduates to make positive impacts in their communities and beyond. We are committed to developing future leaders who are prepared to address complex issues with integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to justice.
A Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice offers a comprehensive understanding of the legal system, criminology, law enforcement, and corrections, preparing students for a wide range of careers in criminal justice and beyond. With opportunities for internships, and networking, a bachelor's degree enhances career advancement, salary potential, and the ability to influence meaningful change in the justice system.
The Criminal Justice program offers an Associate of Science and Associate of Arts degree that students can start with to build a core in Criminal Justice basics.
60 Credits to Graduate
An Associate’s in Criminal Justice provides students with a strong foundation in the principles of law enforcement, the court system, corrections, and criminal law, preparing them for entry-level careers in the justice field or further academic study.
60 Credits to Graduate
An Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice provides students with a strong foundation in the principles of law enforcement, the court system, corrections, and criminal law, preparing them for entry-level careers in the justice field or further academic study.
The Criminal Justice program offers a certificate of proficiency, as well as a minor option for students.
24 Credits to Graduate
A minor in Criminal Justice provides students with a valuable foundation in the legal system, law enforcement, corrections, and criminology, complementing a wide range of majors such as forensic science, national security studies, political science, psychology, sociology, and business. Adding this minor enhances critical thinking, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
15 Credits to Graduate
The Certificate of Proficiency in Criminal Justice is available for all UVU students. This certificate will be available from the University for college students/adults looking for entry-level skills leading to further academic advancement and learn more about the criminal justice field, as well as high school students looking to obtain one.
I've been asked by students, what is the value of a Bachelor's Degree in Law Enforcement? I received my Bachelor's in Criminal Justice before applying for a job in the field. After graduating I joined the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Right from the start my degree paid dividends. The academic courses taught in the academy were the same as I received in my degree. Courses like Criminal Law, Investigations, Corrections, Laws of Evidence, and many more prepared me for the tests I received. That gave me time to prepare in other areas like physical fitness, firearms, policing. When I graduated from the academy, I was number #2 in academics and overall number #1 in the class. Without the degree it would never have happened. The degree also helped when I wanted to apply for other positions.
After patrol I applied to be an academy instructor. My degree opened that door. Then I went to helicopters. When I interviewed for this position, they asked about my educational background. Again, my Bachelors helped. In most all Departments now, large and small you will need a bachelor's to get promoted. My nephew has been an LA Deputy for 19 years. He finished his bachelor's in CJ Online 3 years ago and has since been promoted to sergeant. His degree made a difference. It will make a difference for you. Good Luck!
