Sociology & Criminal Justice Programs

WSU’s Department of Sociology & Criminal Justice offers 3 majors and 2 minors taught by faculty with extensive experience, both academically and in the field. 

Sociology

Sociology students will learn how to create change for people and societies through critical thinking, problem solving, and communication skills.

You will also explore situations from multiple perspectives, setting aside assumptions and looking at the big picture.

Careers

Here are some careers sociology students pursue after graduation:

  • Admissions Counselor
  • Career Counselor
  • Child Welfare Worker
  • Customer Service Director
  • Gerontologist
  • Guidance Counselor
  • Hospital Administrator
  • Human Resources
  • Market Researcher
  • Marriage Counselor
  • Probation Officer
  • Public Relations Manager
  • Rehabilitation Counselor
  • Sales
  • Social Worker
  • Sociologist

Learn more about careers in sociology from the American Sociological Association and WSU Career Services.

Criminal Justice

Criminal Justice students study subjects such as law enforcement, courts, law, corrections, and agencies dealing with juvenile offenders to be prepared for careers in police science and correctional agencies.

The criminal justice program offers students:

  • Faculty with experience in a variety of criminal justice settings
  • Development of critical thinking skills as well as proficiency in writing and communication
  • Small classes tailored to a more personalized learning experience
  • Development of professional leadership skills
  • Affordable tuition 

Admissions & Retention Requirements

Admission to the criminal justice program requires: 

  • completion of ENG 111 or equivalent with a grade of a “C” or higher 
  • completion of SOC 150 and CJS 210 with a minimum GPA of 2.50 and with grades of a “C” or higher 

The Criminal Justice Faculty will review and make a recommendation on the student’s application. You will be notified of the decision by email or mail.

Once admitted to the program, students must demonstrate acceptable progress to remain in good standing. You must maintain a 2.50 GPA for all courses taken within the criminal justice program.

The student must get a grade of at least a “C” in all course work in the criminal justice program. If you complete a course with a grade lower than a “C,” then you’ll have to repeat the course.

See full retention requirements in the Criminal Justice Handbook (PDF).

Careers

Graduates of the WSU Criminal Justice program can pursue a wide variety of careers.

Entry-level opportunities within the criminal justice profession are quite diverse, and professional requirements vary from position to position. 

According to criminal justice professionals, it is beneficial to have other professional skills in addition to your criminal justice background.

Many federal, state, and local corrections and law enforcement agencies are seeking individuals with Spanish-speaking skills. Agencies can also consider proficiency in other languages useful. 

Others believe that education in the areas of accounting, computer science, and chemical use assessment is relevant in hiring decisions of some agencies. 

Contact the Sociology & Criminal Justice Department
Department of Sociology & Criminal Justice
Minne Hall 228

507.457.5222

Email the Sociology & Criminal Justice Department
Mark Norman
Department Chair
Email Mark Norman
Dr. Rafael Narvaez
Sociology Program Coordinator
Email Dr. Rafael Narvaez
Michelle Eggerichs Rekstad
Office Manager

Minne Hall 212

507.457.5400

Email Michelle Eggerichs Rekstad