Lewis-Clark State College

What you'll study

This bachelor’s programme combines core criminal justice theory with specialised coursework in corrections and community supervision. You will study foundational subjects such as Introduction to Criminal Justice, Criminology, Criminal Law and the U.S. legal system, together with courses specific to corrections including Corrections and Correctional Policy, Community and Institutional Corrections, and Juvenile Justice.

• Research and methods: Criminal justice research methods, statistics for social sciences, program evaluation and applied research projects.
• Practice and procedure: Evidence and courtroom procedure, policing and public safety, report writing, ethics and professional responsibility.
• Specialist topics: Addiction and offender treatment, mental health and reentry, restorative justice, risk assessment and offender classification.
• Experiential learning: Supervised internships or practicum placements with correctional facilities, community supervision offices, juvenile services or allied agencies; a capstone or senior project synthesising coursework and field experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high‑school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED). Admission considers high‑school academic record and preparation in relevant subjects; transfer students must provide official college transcripts. Specific course prerequisites typically include college‑level English and introductory social‑science courses. Some applicants pursue initial certification or law‑enforcement training concurrently, but entry to the bachelor’s degree itself does not require prior academy completion.

Lewis‑Clark State College evaluates applicants holistically; mature students with relevant work or military experience are welcome. International applicants should provide proof of English language proficiency where required.

Career prospects

Graduates with a bachelor’s in Criminal Justice and Corrections enter a range of public‑safety and community‑based roles. Typical early‑career positions include corrections officer, probation and parole officer, juvenile caseworker, community supervision specialist and detention services professional. Employers include county and state correctional systems, community corrections agencies, juvenile services, court services and victim‑advocate organisations.

With additional training or certifications, graduates may progress into supervisory and management roles within corrections, transition to law enforcement, or move into related fields such as reentry services, offender treatment and programme management. The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in criminal justice, public administration, social work or law.

Why study at Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis‑Clark State College is a regional public institution with small class sizes and a focus on applied learning. The Criminal Justice and Corrections programme emphasises practical skills and real‑world experience through local internship partnerships with correctional facilities, community supervision offices and juvenile services in Idaho and neighbouring areas.

• Practitioner faculty: Instructors often bring law‑enforcement or corrections experience, giving students insight into everyday professional practice.
• Hands‑on training: The programme integrates practicum placements, applied research projects and preparation for workplace competencies such as report writing, risk assessment and case management.
• Regional connections: Strong working relationships with local agencies support internship opportunities and pathways to employment in the region.
• Student support: Academic advising, career services and veteran support help students navigate coursework, certifications and job placement.