Boise State University

What you'll study

The programme provides a balance of criminological theory, legal foundations and applied corrections practice. Core topics include criminal law and procedure, criminological theory, corrections and rehabilitation, juvenile justice, policing, and ethics in criminal justice. Students also study research methods and statistics to develop the analytical skills needed to evaluate programmes and interpret data.

Typical modules and subjects you can expect include:

• Introduction to Criminal Justice — overview of system components and processes.
• Corrections and Rehabilitation — institutional and community-based corrections, treatment models and reentry.
• Criminal Law and Procedure — substantive and procedural law relevant to policing and courts.
• Juvenile Justice — youth offending, diversion, and specialised interventions.
• Policing and Community Safety — contemporary policing issues and community partnerships.
• Research Methods and Statistics — quantitative and qualitative methods for programme evaluation.
• Assessment, Treatment and Risk Management — offender assessment, substance use treatment and case planning.
• Ethics, Diversity and Policy — professional ethics, cultural competence and policy analysis.
• Capstone or Internship — a practicum with a corrections agency, probation office or related organisation to apply classroom learning in real settings.

The degree typically follows a combination of general education requirements, a sequential set of criminal justice core courses, elective options or specialisations in areas such as juvenile justice or community corrections, and a senior capstone or supervised internship.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Typical admission considerations include academic performance (GPA), completion of preparatory courses in English and social studies, and a demonstrated interest in criminal justice through volunteer or work experience where available. Standardised tests may be considered according to the university's admissions policies; prospective students should consult Boise State's admissions office for current testing guidance.

Transfer applicants will usually need a minimum college GPA and may receive credit for prior coursework. Some placements, internships or fieldwork components may require background checks, immunisations or additional screenings; meeting these requirements is necessary to complete practicum elements of the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme enter a range of occupations across corrections, community supervision and allied sectors. Common roles include corrections officer, probation and parole officer, juvenile services specialist, case manager, reentry coordinator, victim advocate and community-based treatment provider. The degree also provides a foundation for careers in law enforcement, policy analysis, programme evaluation, and positions in federal, state or non-profit organisations involved in public safety and rehabilitation.

Many graduates pursue further study such as graduate degrees in criminal justice, social work, public policy or law to advance into leadership, research or specialised clinical roles. Practical experience gained through internships and partnerships often helps students transition into entry-level professional positions.

Why study at Boise State University

Boise State combines a strong applied focus with opportunities for hands-on learning and local agency partnerships. The programme emphasises practicum experiences and internships with state and local corrections departments, probation and parole offices, and community organisations, giving students direct exposure to working practice.

Students benefit from faculty who bring a mix of academic and practitioner experience, and from access to regional research and training resources. Boise State's location in the state capital region offers practical advantages for networking, field placements and employment with Idaho criminal justice agencies and non-governmental service providers. Student organisations, service-learning projects and multidisciplinary collaboration with allied programmes (social work, psychology, public administration) further enhance professional development and career readiness.