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Criminal Justice

The multidisciplinary Criminal Justice curriculum is designed to familiarize the student with the complex nature of the American Criminal Justice System. The study of criminal justice focuses upon the structure and functions of law enforcement, the courts, and corrections. Included is the analysis of the political, social, cultural, philosophical, and psychological forces that shape the policies, programs, and practices in the system. The liberal arts orientation of the program prepares the student for graduate level work in criminal justice or law and for careers in criminal justice at the Federal, state and local levels. The University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire offers a comprehensive major in Criminal Justice.

What will I learn from studying Criminal Justice?

Knowledge:

Criminal Justice at UW – Eau Claire has an interdisciplinary, liberal arts focus. Students learn about the criminal justice system through courses in political science, psychology, social work, sociology, and philosophy. This variety of courses helps students to understand a wide range of concepts concerning the American criminal justice system such as knowledge of community resources, the causes and consequences of youth and adult crime, and the philosophy and practices of correctional programs for adults and juveniles.

Skills:

  • Data gathering and data analysis
  • Interpretive and report writing
  • Analytical strategies
  • Problem-solving strategies
  • Public speaking skills

What are some of the interests and values related to Criminal Justice?

  • Critical thinking skills
  • Investigating difference
  • Research skills
  • Awareness of ethical dilemmas facing criminal justice professionals

What are related student and professional organizations?

Student:

Professional:

What career fields are related to the Criminal Justice Degree?

Potential Employers:

Criminal Justice majors can work in any entry-level position within the criminal justice field. They can work in a variety of settings at the local, state, or federal level in law enforcement, probation and parole, corrections, and juvenile justice. In addition, Criminal Justice majors may work in social services and the court system as well as in the private sector for various insurance companies and in loss prevention/asset protection. The Criminal Justice major can also be a good pre-law major.

Potential Job Titles:

  • Parole Officer
  • Immigration Inspector
  • Legal Assistant
  • Crisis Counselor
  • Private Investigator
  • Prison Warden
  • Customs Patrol Officer
  • Victim Services
  • Police Officer
  • Park Ranger
  • Youth Counselor
  • Probation Officer
  • Claims Adjuster

What are some jobs held by UW – Eau Claire Criminal Justice graduates?

  • Veterans Service Representative , Dept. of Veterans Affairs, Sussex, WI
  • Overnight Youth Counselor , Homme Youth & Family Programs, Mosniee, WI
  • Associate Claims Specialist , PIC Wisconsin, Madison, WI
  • Surveillance Investigator , Treasure Island Resort & Casino, Welch, MN
  • Lawyer , University of Wisconsin – Madison, Madison, WI
  • Police Officer, Denver, CO

How can I learn more about Criminal Justice?

Department

Career Services:

  • Meet with a career counselor
  • Take interest inventories and self-assessment tests
  • Ask An Alum & Friends, a database of UW – Eau Claire Alumni & Friends available for informational interviewing

Career Discovery Center:

  • Opportunities in Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Careers , James D. Stinchcomb
  • Great Jobs for Criminal Justice Majors , Stephen Lambert & Debra Regan
  • 100 Best Careers in Crimefighting , Mary Price Lee, Richard S. Lee & Carol Beam
  • Careers in Criminology , Marilyn Morgan
  • Career Planning in Criminal Justice , Robert De Lucia
  • FBI Careers , Thomas H. Ackerman

Internet:

What are some opportunities for experiential learning in Criminal Justice?

Department Internship

Internships are a way to gain hands-on experience in a position that interests you as a potential career. Criminal Justice students may choose from over a dozen internships and can earn up to six credits. Contact the Criminal Justice Program Faculty about enrolling in CRMJ 498 to obtain academic credit for your internship. The Career Services Internship Center (Schofield 230) can also assist students in locating internships.

Directed Studies or Independent Study Class

By participating in an Independent or Directed Studies course, students will be able to research an area that they find particularly interesting. Contact your advisor about enrolling in CRMJ 395, 399 or 499.