The Criminal Justice program at Greenville University prepares students for meaningful careers in the criminal justice system or for continued study in graduate school or law school through hands-on learning, a focus on restorative justice, and a Christ-centered approach to the field.
You'll explore the foundations of criminal justice while gaining real-world experience alongside professionals in the field. Through the lens of faith, students examine justice as both accountability and restoration, learning how restorative justice can promote healing, reconciliation, and stronger communities.
Experiential learning is at the heart of the program. Students move beyond the classroom to observe the justice system in action and connect with practitioners through opportunities such as:
Observing court proceedings at the Madison County and Bond County courthouses
Attending drug court sessions in Marion County
Touring the St. Louis County Police Headquarters and Training Academy
Visiting the St. Louis Crime Laboratory
Attending a forensic science conference
Whether your calling is law enforcement, corrections, the courts, victim advocacy, community-based organizations, or graduate or law school, you'll graduate prepared to serve with integrity, compassion, and a commitment to justice that makes a difference.
Where Can This Degree Take You?
A Criminal Justice degree prepares you to serve communities, uphold justice, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. Through the study of law, criminology, public safety, and the justice system, you'll develop the critical thinking, communication, and ethical decision-making skills needed for careers in a variety of public service and security fields. Whether pursuing a career in law enforcement, corrections, government, or related areas, this program equips you with the foundation to make a difference.
Law Enforcement Officer
Correction Officer
Probation Services Professional
Crime Analysis Assistant
How does faith fit in?
At Greenville University, faith and learning go hand in hand. Your degree prepares you to integrate your Christian faith with the knowledge and skills of your profession, equipping you to pursue your calling with biblical wisdom, lead with Christ-centered integrity, and serve God and others through your work.
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Field activities give you experience
Learn in settings like law enforcement agencies, court house experiences, law firms, social work agencies, public and private children's homes, homes for the delinquent, mental and penal institutions, probation and parole agencies, juvenile courts, low-income urban areas, and depressed rural areas suffering from significant substance abuse and other social problems.
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Professors with experience
GU's criminal justice professors have expert knowledge and practical experience working in the criminal justice system. That means you get a practical and informed education.
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Multiple disciplines
You'll focus on the practical fields within the criminal justice system while you also learn aspects of social work, sociology, psychology, and research methods to prepare you for graduate school. Grow in your understanding of the criminal justice system, including its impact and intersections.
Why GU
Personalized Attention
Experience personal growth and plan your career under the guidance of faculty who know your name and cheer your success. GU’s 11:1 student/faculty ratio and community atmosphere allow professors to invest in their students and know your strengths and abilities in the field of social work.
Experiential Learning
Prepare for work within the criminal justice system. Attain a better understanding of specified criminal justice jobs though internships. You’ll be better prepared for job searches, interviews, and your career.
Christ-centered learning
Grow in your faith and become well-suited for the work and challenges professionals in the criminal justice system may face.
