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Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice

USA

What will I learn?

If you are motivated by helping others and making a difference, Lewis University is the ideal place for you to develop the skills necessary for a meaningful and impactful career in law enforcement.

Our comprehensive approach will expertly prepare you for leadership roles in all facets of the criminal justice and legal system, including police, probation, corrections, judge, homeland security, FBI, CIA and more.

One of the distinct features of a Lewis education is that you will also gain a deep understanding and insight into some of today's most complex issues in law enforcement – domestic violence, drug abuse, community and race relations, recidivism and terrorism

FIVE REASONS WHY POLICE OFFICERS SHOULD HAVE COLLEGE DEGREES

Higher education was identified in the 2015 President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing as one of six effective ways to reduce crime and build better relations between police and the communities they serve.

Research has shown police officers with a college degree are:

  • Less likely to use violence.
  • More focused on problem-oriented policing.
  • Better able to relate to the community.
  • Better able to identify best practices.
  • Make better leaders.

WHY LEWIS FOR YOUR CRIMINAL JUSTICE DEGREE?

Largest program among private institutions in Illinois

Dedicated faculty with real-world understanding and connections

Evolving curriculum provides you with modern day techniques and career-focused knowledge

Advanced skill training necessary to pursue careers in law enforcement and the legal system

An ethical framework to help you face the moral challenges that come from a position of responsibility and influence

An in-depth understanding of our legal system and the sociological aspects of crime

POSSIBLE CAREER OPTIONS INCLUDE:

  • CIA agent
  • Corrections officer
  • Court reporter
  • Criminologist
  • DEA agent
  • Deputy Sheriff
  • Deputy U.S. Marshal
  • FBI agent
  • Forensic evidence technician
  • Immigration & Customs (ICE) agent
  • Paralegal
  • Police dispatcher
  • Police officer
  • Probation officer
  • Private investigator
  • Security professional
  • Secret Service agent

Which department am I in?

College of Education and Social Sciences

Study options

Full Time (8 Semesters)

Tuition fees
US$38,800.00 per year
International Student Insurance - Fall/Spring semester - 816

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Start date

January 2026

Venue

Albuquerque Campus

2440 Louisiana Boulevard NE Ste 100,

Albuquerque,

New Mexico,

87110-4405, West, United States

Full Time (128 Hours)

Tuition fees
US$38,800.00 per year
USD $19,400 for 12-18 hours per semester

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Application deadline

Expected November 2025

Start date

January 2025

Venue

College of Education and Social Sciences

Lewis University,

One University Parkway,

ROMEOVILLE,

Illinois,

60446, United States

Entry requirements

For international students

Applicants must have graduated from an approved high school with a combination of grade point average, class rank, and ACT or SAT score which indicates a strong likelihood of success in university studies.

Completion of an introductory level methods course

Cumulative GPA of 2.75 (to enroll in the introductory methods course and continue in the program)

A 2.75 GPA within the academic major (a minimum “C” grade is required in all education courses toward licensure)

English Proficiency Exams

IELTS - Minimum 6.5; TOEFL IBT - Minimum 79; PTE-A - Minimum 52; Duolingo Academic - Minimum 105.

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

ADD TO MY FAVOURITES

About Lewis University

Lewis University places a strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning with small class sizes and a personalized teaching approach.

  • Excellent value college with small class sizes
  • Over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs
  • Diverse student body with large international presence
  • Top 10 school in Illinois (Schools.com)

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