Western Carolina University - Criminology and Criminal Justice Department

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Where are our grads?

Our graduates have chosen successful criminal justice careers in the fields of law enforcement, investigations, corrections, security, education, forensic science, and law and court systems.

They’ve also embarked on emergency and disaster management careers with the Department of Homeland Security, the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Department of Health and Human Services, various state, county, and local governments, as well as not-for-profit and commercial hazard mitigation organizations.

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Criminology and Criminal Justice Department

The goal of the Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice is to provide you, the future professional, with a strong interdisciplinary foundation so that you can respond appropriately and ethically in challenging “real world” situations as you prepare for careers in criminal justice and emergency and disaster management or for further education.

We offer you the Criminal Justice Program—one of WCU's largest programs—with residential or online program options, and the online Emergency and Disaster Management Program, formerly known as the Emergency Management Program and the Public Safety and Security Management Program.

Whichever program of study you choose, you’ll find that theory and hands-on practice are brought together through the curriculum, internships, independent studies, and student-faculty interaction, a hallmark of our department.

Local officials and volunteers take part in an emergency drill on WCU's Cullowhee campus (2004)

You’ll learn from faculty with a wide range of expertise, experience, and interests. Recognized nationally for their research, these faculty members’ practical knowledge has been developed on the front lines of the criminal justice system in courtrooms, prisons, juvenile centers, and on the streets.

Transfer students are especially welcome to enroll in our programs. Visit the program of your choice and learn more about transfer admission, requirements, and credit.

Want to learn more about the department? Catch up on our news and events or contact us with your specific questions. We look forward to hearing from you.

In the photo: Local officials and volunteers take part in an emergency drill on WCU's Cullowhee campus (2004).