B.A. in Criminal Justice Sciences

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 115.

ISU offers several scholarships and financial aid options for international students to help them pursue their academic goals. These scholarships are based on academic achievements, leadership skills, and other criteria. 

International Tuition Waiver: International students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and show promise for contributing to the ISU community may be eligible for tuition waivers. These waivers can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.

Redbird Academic Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to incoming undergraduate international students who have outstanding academic records. The scholarship amount varies depending on the student's academic achievements.

Redbird International Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship recognizes outstanding leadership skills and contributions to the international community. Recipients of this scholarship serve as ambassadors for international students at ISU.

College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges within ISU offer scholarships for international students pursuing specific academic programs. These scholarships are often based on academic performance and potential for success in the chosen field of study.

Study Abroad Scholarships: ISU encourages international students to engage in study abroad programs to gain global experiences. The university offers scholarships to support international students' participation in these programs.

International students interested in applying for scholarships at ISU should review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.

Graduates of the B.A. in Criminal Justice Sciences program at Illinois State University are prepared for diverse and impactful careers within the criminal justice field. This program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of criminal behavior, legal systems, and societal factors influencing crime and justice.

Law Enforcement Officer: Graduates can pursue careers as police officers, detectives, or federal agents, responsible for enforcing laws, investigating crimes, and ensuring public safety.

Corrections Specialist: With expertise in rehabilitation and criminal behavior gained from the program, graduates can work as corrections officers, probation officers, or parole officers, managing and supervising individuals within correctional facilities or community settings.

Victim Advocate: Given the program's focus on victimology and advocacy, graduates can pursue careers as victim advocates, providing support, resources, and guidance to victims of crime throughout legal proceedings and recovery.

Social Services Provider: Graduates may work in social services agencies, providing counseling, case management, and support services to individuals involved in the criminal justice system, including juvenile offenders, victims, and their families.

Legal Services Professional: Graduates can work as paralegals, legal assistants, or court administrators, supporting attorneys and judges in legal proceedings related to criminal cases, civil litigation, or family law matters.

Policy Analyst: Graduates with a strong background in criminal justice policy analysis can work as policy analysts, researchers, or advocates, evaluating the effectiveness of criminal justice policies, proposing reforms, and influencing public policy decisions.

Forensic Science Technician: Graduates interested in forensic science can work as forensic science technicians, analyzing physical evidence from crime scenes using scientific methods to aid criminal investigations and court proceedings.

Career Outlook: The demand for professionals with expertise in criminal justice sciences continues to grow, driven by ongoing societal needs for public safety, crime prevention, and justice reform. Graduates of Illinois State University's program are well-prepared to contribute to these areas across various sectors, including law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies.

Professional Development: Illinois State University supports students' professional development through career services, networking events, and internship opportunities. These resources help students gain practical experience, build professional networks, and prepare for successful careers in the dynamic field of criminal justice.