B.A. in Accounting
Lycoming's B.S. in Accounting provides two tracks for students: a 150-credit hour t...
B.A. in Criminal Justice
Williamsport, Pennsylvania
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The B.A. in Criminal Justice at Lycoming College focuses on understanding the complexities of the criminal justice system in the United States. The program offers a healthy emphasis on real-world experience, intimate class sizes, and direct interaction with local and national experts. It is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of criminological theory, research methodologies, and practical applications within the field. Lycoming also offers a Criminology major, which focuses more on the theoretical study of crime. The interdisciplinary nature of the Criminal Justice program facilitates the pursuit of double majors or minors in related disciplines such as Spanish, accounting, chemistry, or biology.
Curriculum: The Criminal Justice curriculum is structured to provide a broad introduction to the theory and practice of the field. While specific course lists are not fully detailed in all public information, core courses typically include an "Introduction to Criminal Justice" (CJ 100/CJCR 100), "Policing and Society" (CJCR 201), and "Youth, Deviance, and Social Control" (CJCR 204). The curriculum likely covers key areas such as criminal law, criminal procedure, corrections, criminology, and various aspects of law enforcement. The program emphasizes developing strong writing and research skills, preparing students for the rigorous demands of professional roles and graduate studies.
Research Focus: Research is a vital component of the Criminal Justice program at Lycoming College. Students are provided with extensive hands-on opportunities to engage in scholarly inquiry, including the chance to work closely with department faculty on collaborative research projects. This emphasis on research aims to deepen students' understanding of criminological theory, methodology, and practice. The program encourages students to present their research at national conferences. The annual Strauser Lecture Series, which brings distinguished researchers and practitioners to campus, further highlights the program's commitment to cutting-edge research and its application to criminal justice policy and practice. The college library also provides specific "Criminal Justice & Criminology Resources" to support student research.
Industry Engagement: Lycoming College places a very strong emphasis on practical industry engagement for its Criminal Justice students. The program is designed to provide extensive hands-on opportunities, including police ride-alongs, observations of county court hearings, and tours of local correctional institutions. Students are encouraged to volunteer with various agencies and participate in a robust program of internship experiences. For example, the Lycoming Regional Police Department offers specific internship positions to Lycoming College students, providing direct experience in law enforcement operations, investigations, and community relations. The Lycoming County Coroner's Office also offers internships, particularly for students interested in forensic aspects. These opportunities are crucial for gaining real-world experience and building valuable networks within the criminal justice community.
Global Perspective: While the Criminal Justice program at Lycoming College primarily focuses on the U.S. system, it implicitly fosters a global perspective by encouraging students to consider the broader context of crime and justice. The interdisciplinary nature of the liberal arts foundation and the ability to pursue minors in modern languages or international studies can enhance this perspective. The curriculum may include discussions of international crime trends or comparative justice systems, preparing students to understand that crime and justice issues extend beyond national borders. Lycoming College's broader commitment to global education, including study abroad opportunities in over two dozen countries, also allows students to gain diverse cultural experiences, which can inform their understanding of justice in a globalized world. The expertise of faculty, some of whom may have international research interests, further contributes to a broader viewpoint.
Location
Williamsport, Pennsylvania
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
USD 49258
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 70 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 50 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 100.
Lycoming College is attracting talented international students by offering generous and competitive scholarship opportunities. These scholarships help make a high-quality liberal arts education accessible and affordable for students from around the world, fostering a diverse and vibrant campus community.
Merit-Based Scholarships: All international applicants to Lycoming College are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships there is no separate application required. These scholarships reward academic excellence, leadership, and extracurricular achievements.
Renewable Scholarships: Scholarships awarded to international students at Lycoming are renewable for up to four years, provided that students maintain satisfactory academic progress and good standing with the college. This continuity offers financial stability throughout the undergraduate journey.
Need-Based Aid: In addition to merit scholarships, Lycoming College offers limited need-based financial aid to international students who demonstrate financial need. Students may be required to submit additional documentation to be considered for this aid. Need-based support complements merit awards to further reduce the overall cost of attendance.
Specialty Scholarships and Awards: Lycoming College occasionally provides targeted scholarships based on students’ fields of study, leadership qualities, or unique talents. International students are encouraged to inquire about available departmental awards or special grants during the admissions process.
A Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice from Lycoming College provides graduates with a robust understanding of the U.S. criminal justice system, encompassing law enforcement, courts, and corrections.
Police Officer/Law Enforcement Agent: This is a common and direct career path. Graduates can join local, state, or federal law enforcement agencies (e.g., municipal police departments, state troopers, FBI, DEA, U.S. Marshals), engaging in patrol, investigations, community policing, and maintaining public order.
Probation/Parole Officer: These professionals supervise individuals released from incarceration or on probation, helping them reintegrate into society, ensuring compliance with conditions, and connecting them with resources.
Correctional Officer/Counselor: Graduates can work in correctional facilities, managing inmates, maintaining security, and sometimes providing counseling or rehabilitation services to those who are incarcerated.
Victim Advocate: These crucial roles involve supporting crime victims through the legal process, providing emotional support, connecting them with resources, and advocating for their rights within the criminal justice system.
Paralegal/Legal Assistant: With a strong understanding of criminal law and procedure, graduates can work in law firms, government legal departments, or corporate legal offices, assisting attorneys with legal research, document preparation, and case management.
Court Administrator/Clerk: Graduates can work within the court system, managing court records, scheduling hearings, assisting judges and attorneys, and ensuring the smooth administrative operation of judicial proceedings.
Crime Scene Investigator (CSI): For those with a strong interest in science and analytical skills, a criminal justice background can lead to roles in forensic labs. CSIs collect and analyze physical evidence from crime scenes, such as fingerprints, DNA, and ballistics.
Intelligence Analyst: Graduates can work for federal agencies like the FBI, CIA, or Department of Homeland Security, analyzing data to identify patterns, assess threats, and provide intelligence to inform law enforcement and national security decisions.
Private Investigator/Security Specialist: Leveraging investigative and analytical skills, graduates can work for private investigation firms, conduct surveillance, background checks, or provide corporate security and loss prevention services.
Customs and Border Protection Officer: Graduates can work at ports of entry, airports, or along borders, enforcing immigration and customs laws, preventing illegal entry of people and goods, and ensuring national security.
