Criminal Justice
Criminal Justice
Explore the Depths of Criminal Justice for a Dynamic Career Path
Program Overview
Are you driven by a desire to help others, protect the community, and make a positive impact in the criminal justice system? College of Western Idaho’s (CWI) Criminal Justice program is designed to equip you with the knowledge and skills needed for a fulfilling career in this vital field. This comprehensive program covers legal studies, sociology, political science, psychology, arrest procedures, and search and seizure, preparing you for various roles in law enforcement, court administration, victim services, and corrections.
With a focus on real-world applications, this program provides you with a deep understanding of criminal justice system practices and processes. Whether you plan to transfer to a four-year institution or begin a career immediately, our program offers flexibility with various course formats and provides the foundational education required for success in the field.
Learning Opportunities
- Experienced Instructors: Learn from qualified instructors with real-world experience, dedicated to your success.
- Flexible Learning Formats: Choose from on-campus, fully-remote, hybrid, and online courses to suit your schedule and learning preferences.
- Practical Understanding of Criminal Justice: Gain an in-depth understanding of the criminal justice system through diverse coursework and site visits.
- Networking & Professional Development: Connect with professionals in the field through guest speakers, career interviews, and networking events.
- Critical Skills Development: Develop critical thinking, research, and analysis methods, along with diversity awareness and a global perspective on crime and justice.
- Transfer On: Take your CWI credits to four-year institutions to further your education and career opportunities including Boise State University and Lewis-Clark State College.
Areas of Study
Degrees & Certificates
Criminal Justice – Associate of Arts Degree
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Career Opportunities
1063
Annual Openings*
$
35.10
Hourly Median Wage*
$
73,008
Annual Median Salary
18.28
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
All life, physical, and social science technicians not listed separately.
62
Annual Openings*
$
22.16
Hourly Median Wage*
$
46,092
Annual Median Salary
9.77
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Directly supervise and coordinate activities of members of police force.
38
Annual Openings*
$
43.40
Hourly Median Wage*
$
90,272
Annual Median Salary
6.05
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
Directly supervise and coordinate activities of correctional officers and jailers.
10
Annual Openings*
$
30.32
Hourly Median Wage*
$
63,065
Annual Median Salary
2.25
%
Growth (2025 – 2035)*
*Data sourced from Lightcast™ (2023), a global leader in labor market analytics, and limited to the state of Idaho. Contact CWI Institutional Research for questions regarding this data. Career pathways may require further education beyond CWI.
Admissions
Step 1
- Apply to CWI.
- Choose Criminal Justice as your major.
Step 2
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
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Cost & Aid
As a student in this program, you may be eligible for financial aid and scholarships.
Enrichment Opportunities
Enhance your academic experience, expand your knowledge, reach your goals, and celebrate your achievements.
Advising
Already a student? We are here to help you navigate your educational journey, connect you to academic and support resources, and achieve your academic or career goals.
Transfer Information
Plan ahead for a smooth transition to a four-year college or university.
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