Law Enforcement and Justice Administration Major (Bachelor of Science)
From protecting rights to preventing crime, police and justice advocates play a critical role in our world. With a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Law Enforcement and Justice Administration (LEJA) from Western Illinois University (WIU), you can join their ranks and promote fairness and equality in your community.
At WIU, you receive the highest-quality education in the fourth-largest undergraduate law enforcement and criminal justice program in the United States. Learn alongside peers dedicated to reaching their fullest potential, eager to solve problems and work collaboratively, and inspired by the boundless possibilities in reach.
Our faculty nurture your growth from the time you set foot on campus and well into your career. If you opt to take the program online, rest assured you’ll encounter the same support as in-person students.
Why Pursue a LEJA Bachelor’s Degree at WIU?
Whether you are a first-year college student or a transfer student, you will thrive at Western Illinois University. Our differences make us stronger, and our diverse perspectives enrich our campus environment. When you choose WIU, you choose:
- A top-ranked law enforcement and criminal justice administration degree program known internationally for its excellence
- The flexibility and convenience of studying online or at our Macomb campus
- An education that goes beyond theory, emphasizing hands-on practice and real-world application
- Access to our state-of-the-art crime laboratory
- A robust network; more than 1,400 agencies partner with our program by accepting interns
- The option to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in just five years through our accelerated integrated program
- Post-baccalaureate certificates that allow you to hone your expertise after graduation and maintain a competitive advantage in the job
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Program Curriculum
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WIU’s approach is holistic. We balance liberal arts and professional education to prepare students to face new challenges and devise creative solutions. To accomplish this, we start by establishing a foundational understanding of the entire criminal justice system, including police, courts, and corrections.
Beyond the principles of law, students learn to address modern concerns such as terrorism, homeland security, and white-collar crime. They develop investigative techniques that empower them to tackle our increasingly complex security landscape.
Courses like Crime Scene Investigation and Criminal Investigation give students hands-on experience in evidence collection and analysis, equipping them with real-world skills valued in the field. The internship component complements these classes and allows students to apply their knowledge in professional settings.
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Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Internship Opportunities
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Learning by doing can help synthesize your skills and bolster your expertise. That’s why, as a Law Enforcement and Justice Administration major, you participate in off-campus practical work experience.
After your internship, you participate in open discussions with your peers and share your analysis of the criminal justice system through written reports. In our Honors Internship Project, you can prepare a major written work that investigates scholarly literature applied within the context of your internship.
Career Outcomes
Investing in a WIU education means investing in your future—and it pays off in virtually limitless job potential. With your technical prowess and a strong grasp of ethical and professional considerations, you enter the workforce equipped with the tools to build a long-lasting career.
We prepare LEJA students for a variety of jobs in the criminal justice field:
WIU Graduate Job Placements
Local and federal correctional institutions, state police, and sheriff’s offices seek WIU graduates, understanding that our students possess the theoretical and practical proficiencies to thrive professionally.
Our students' potential for success extends far beyond county and state lines. WIU graduates find employment at federal agencies across the U.S., including jobs headquartered in major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and New York.
Admissions
Ready to become a Leatherneck? Western is a test optional institution, meaning we don’t require SAT/ACT scores. Review our undergraduate admissions standards for more information about applying to the LEJA program at WIU.
Scholarships for Law Enforcement and Justice Administration Majors
We offer a number of institutional scholarships that can offset your cost, including The Western Way, which covers tuition costs and mandatory fees for eligible students. Departmental scholarships can also provide you with the financial assistance you need to make your academic dreams a reality. Learn more about other financial aid options.
Your Future in Criminal Justice Starts at WIU
Ready to make a difference in your community and champion justice? Enroll in Western Illinois University’s law enforcement and justice administration bachelor’s degree program to accomplish your goals.
Start your WIU journey—apply today and join your fellow Leathernecks
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