Criminal Justice

The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at Lewis-Clark State College offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for successful careers in the criminal justice field. This program provides a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of law enforcement, corrections, and the judiciary system, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex societal issues related to crime and justice. Throughout the program, students will explore topics such as criminal law, criminology, juvenile justice, forensic science, ethics, and criminal investigation techniques. Emphasizing both theoretical understanding and practical application, the curriculum includes hands-on learning opportunities such as internships, case studies, and simulations that allow students to gain real-world experience. The program also focuses on developing critical thinking, communication, and analytical skills, essential for effective problem-solving and decision-making in diverse criminal justice settings. Faculty members are experienced professionals dedicated to mentoring students and fostering a collaborative learning environment. Upon completing the program, graduates will be well-prepared for careers in law enforcement agencies, corrections facilities, forensic laboratories, private security, and other related fields. Additionally, the degree provides a solid foundation for further education or specialized training in areas such as criminal investigation, homeland security, or law. With a commitment to community engagement and ethical standards, the Criminal Justice program at Lewis-Clark State College aims to produce competent, responsible, and compassionate individuals ready to serve and protect their communities.

General Education Core

• Written Communication
• Oral Communication
• Mathematical Ways of Knowing
• Humanistic & Artistic Ways of Knowing
• Scientific Ways of Knowing
• Social & Behavioral Ways of Knowing
• Diversity
• Integrative Seminar: Ethics & Values
• Foreign/Heritage Language

Program Requirements

• INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE
• CORRECTIONS IN AMERICA
• CRIMINAL PROCEDURE
• JUVENILE DELINQUENCY
• CRIMINAL LAW
• CRIMINOLOGY
• CRIME, JUSTICE AND ETHICS
• PRACTICUM IN JUSTICE STUDIES
• RESEARCH PROJECT AND SEMINAR IN JUSTICE STUDIES
• DEVIANT BEHAVIOR AND SOCIAL CONTROL
• RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND STATISTICAL CONCEPTS

Select 15 credits from the following

• AMERICAN NATIONAL GOVERNMENT
• POLICE IN AMERICA
• PRINCIPLES OF INTERVIEWING AND CASE STUDIES
• PRINCIPLES OF CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS
• STATISTICAL METHODS
• ORGANIZATION AND ADMINISTRATION OF JUSTICE
• WHITE COLLAR CRIME
• CONSTITUTIONAL LAW
• RACE AND ETHNICITY
• COMMUNITY POLICING
• COMPARATIVE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEMS
• RACE, CLASS, GENDER & JUSTICE
• JUSTICE ISSUES AND PUBLIC POLICY

Select one of the following options

• CYBERCRIME
• COMPUTER APPLICATIONS IN SOC SCIENCES
• COMPUTERS AND SOCIAL SCIENCE

Electives

Program Requirements

1. Online application
2. Send official school transcripts/records: an official transcript is usually sent directly from the high school or university. If the transcript is hand carried to LCSC, make sure that it is still in a sealed envelope.
3. Students must show evidence of secondary (high school) school completion or the equivalent.
4. Students must show at least a 2.0 Grade Point Average (GPA) on a 4.0 scale from a secondary (high school) or post-secondary (college or university) institution.  Students with more than 14 transferable post-secondary credits do not need to show secondary transcripts.   
5. Some applicants will be required to submit their original transcripts to an outside evaluation agency such as World Education Services (WES). This determination will be made by the admissions team at their discretion. Students will be responsible to pay for the transcript evaluation.  
6. Send a bank statement showing funds available for study.Send Certificate of Financial Responsibility, (CFR) if applying online. CFR included in paper application.
7. Send a passport copy. 
8. Meet our English proficiency requirements by submitting an official test score. (Not required of IIE applicants). Note that it is an option to be tested upon arrival through conditional admission.No TOEFL or IELTS required. 
9. Obtain LCSC-approved health insurance.

Scholarships

• Social Science Scholarships
• International Student Scholarships

The Criminal Justice program at Lewis-Clark State College offers students a comprehensive education designed to prepare them for careers in various fields related to law enforcement, corrections, law, and public safety. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and an understanding of the criminal justice system's structure and function. Students pursuing this degree can expect to learn about the history and philosophy of justice, criminal law, criminal procedures, juvenile justice, illegal drugs, ethics, and management of criminal justice organizations. The curriculum is designed to provide practical skills through hands-on learning experiences, internships, and fieldwork opportunities, often in collaboration with local law enforcement agencies and community organizations.

The program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge necessary for effective policing, investigations, corrections, and policy development, making them valuable candidates for employment in a broad spectrum of related fields. Many students choose to pursue careers as police officers, detectives, probation officers, correctional officers, or security specialists, among others. The program also serves those interested in advancing to graduate studies in criminal justice, law, or public administration.

Lewis-Clark State College ensures that the program is accessible and aligned with the needs of the local community and regional employment markets. The faculty members are experienced professionals and academics who bring real-world insights into the classroom, enriching the learning experience. The college provides a supportive educational environment with modern facilities and resources, including a dedicated criminal justice laboratory, digital resources, and opportunities for research and community engagement.

The program usually requires completion of core courses in criminal justice, electives related to specific areas of interest, and a capstone project or seminar that integrates learning and demonstrates practical understanding. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, volunteer work, and leadership activities to gain valuable hands-on experience and network with potential employers. Additionally, Lewis-Clark State College supports a variety of student organizations related to criminal justice, providing avenues for leadership development and professional networking. Graduates of this program are well-prepared to enter the workforce or move on to advanced degrees, contributing positively to the fields of law enforcement, corrections, legal studies, and public safety policy.