Criminal Justice, B.A.
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice at Governors State University prepares students to analyze crime, justice systems, and social impact through theoretical, ethical, and restorative perspectives for careers in public safety, law, and community advocacy.
The Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice at Governors State University offers a comprehensive understanding of how crime affects individuals, communities, and social systems. The program examines criminological theory, justice processes, and the role of factors such as race, class, and gender in shaping both crime and responses to it.
Students build skills in research, analysis, ethics, and communication while exploring key areas including policing, courts, corrections, and juvenile justice. The curriculum also incorporates contemporary approaches such as restorative justice, emphasizing community-based solutions and social accountability. With small class sizes and faculty mentorship, students gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insight, preparing them for diverse career paths or advanced study in criminal justice, law, or related fields.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Criminal Justice BA program are prepared for careers across the justice system and related fields, including law enforcement, corrections, courts, and community-based organizations. The program also supports pathways into graduate study and professional programs such as law school.
- Police Officer / Sheriff’s Patrol Officer – $74,910
- Detective / Criminal Investigator – $95,930
- Probation Officer / Correctional Treatment Specialist – $67,880
- Correctional Officer / Bailiff – $53,290
- Fish and Game Warden – $61,120
- Criminal Justice Educator (Postsecondary) – $83,470
What You'll Study
Our academic catalog has detailed information about what you'll study, like courses, hours needed for completion, and other requirements.
How to Apply
You'll need certain documents and meet certain requirements in order to apply. Read about them on our admissions pages.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Students are encouraged to explore the Office of Financial Aid web pages as a central resource for funding your education. The website provides comprehensive information on all forms of assistance, including student loans, grants, scholarships, and other financial support available to CAS students.
Get Involved
Criminal Justice students are encouraged to deepen their academic experience and professional readiness through engagement with leading organizations and real-world learning opportunities.
Professional & Academic Organizations
- American Society of Criminology — Learn more
- Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences — Learn more
- National Criminal Justice Association — Learn more
Campus & Experiential Engagement
- Pursue internships with law enforcement agencies, courts, corrections facilities, or nonprofit organizations.
- Attend guest lectures, policy discussions, and criminal justice panels featuring practitioners and scholars.
- Participate in community outreach or restorative justice initiatives addressing crime prevention and reentry.
- Engage in research projects or applied learning experiences focused on justice system analysis.
Highlighted Faculty
Contact Us
- Division of Arts and Letters
- College of Arts and Sciences, E2578
- Governors State University, 1 University Parkway, University Park, IL 60484
- 708.534.4101
- casinfo@govst.edu