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Jacqueline Van Wormer stands with two students somewhere in the middle of Whitworth's campus. They talk in a group.

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  1. Whitworth University
  2. Academics
  3. Undergraduate Majors & Programs
  4. Criminology & Criminal Justice, B.A.

Next Steps

Criminology & Criminal Justice, B.A.

The fields of criminology & criminal justice need leaders who are equipped to navigate the complex issues and perspectives associated with the criminal justice system. Your degree at Whitworth will prepare you to be a successful professional through unique and meaningful exposure to the criminal justice system and through rigorous study of criminology theory, communication and diversity. This major will allow you to explore a variety of topics, including the development and history of policing, courts and corrections, and juvenile justice.

Why study criminology & criminal justice at Whitworth?

  • Gain valuable research skills and experience through practicums and internships.
  • Learn from a diverse set of courses that incorporate theory, organizational management, communication skills, statistics and research.
  • Benefit from mentoring by professors who are active in the criminal justice system and can provide valuable access to site placements and observations of criminal justice agencies.
  • Develop strong leadership skills through the variety of teaching methods in the courses offered.
  • Make connections in the Alpha Phi Sigma honor society, through which you may attend conferences, hold office positions and engage in community events.

Our criminology & criminal justice grads make a difference (and get jobs)

The real-world experience gained in the Whitworth criminology & criminal justice major prepares students for varied positions across law enforcement, courts and corrections. Work in federal agencies (such as the FBI, CIA, DEA, State Department, and Customs and Border Protection), or pursue the emerging field of computer forensics. Crime scene and criminal investigation, adult and juvenile counseling, and court administration are also popular and growing fields.

Recent job placements include:

  • Courtney Bagdon-Cox, research and data analyst, Washington State Department of Corrections
  • Haley Schelin, fire specialist, Idaho Department of Lands
  • Thomas Wakem, Spokane County sheriff's deputy
  • Jacob Goree, military aviator, U.S. Army
  • Emily Michelbrink, IRB editor, Advarra

Our recent criminology & criminal justice grads further their studies in top graduate programs at institutions including:

  • University of Washington School of Law
  • Washington State University
  • Montana State University
  • Gonzaga University School of Law

Ask our faculty

Ask Jason

Associate Professor of Sociology Jason Wollschleger specializes in sociology of religion, racial and ethnic minorities, and religious violence.

What related majors can I explore?