Criminal Justice Schools in Iowa

Through the criminal justice program at Saint Ambrose University, students will learn to be, adaptable, flexible, and ready. The program prepares students for careers at the local, state, and federal level in the criminal justice field. Saint Ambrose also offers a master's degree in criminal justice in the traditional classroom setting, and online for students who are looking for a more flexible schedule. 

Writing tutorials and subject specific tutoring is available to students through the Student Success Center. The counseling center at the university provides individual and group counseling to ensure mental health for students and faculty alike. 

Students pursuing a criminal justice degree at Upper Iowa University can choose between obtaining an associate of arts degree after roughly two years (or 60 credits), or continuing on for a full bachelor of arts degree. Upper Iowa University offers classes online or face-to-face and multiple locations to choose from, including the Fayette campus, off-site education centers, online programs or self-paced programs. 

The criminal justice programs at Upper Iowa prepare students for careers in law enforcement, corrections, court systems and justice administration. Careers in criminal justice are expected to grow an average of 11 percent by 2022 according to the Department of Labor. 

The criminal justice program at Simpson College routinely returns high-scoring students on the Educational Testing Service's Major Field Test. The undergraduate criminal justice program at Simpson requires students to complete approximately 44 credits, which is ten courses plus the Standards of Professional Behavior capstone. 

Students can also choose to get a graduate degree in criminal justice at Simpson, which accommodates those who are already working in the field. Courses are typically eight weeks long and combine in person meetings once a week with an online learning system. On average, graduate programs can be completed in two years. 

A Bachelor of Arts degree in criminal justice at the University of Dubuque will expose students to the primary components of the criminal justice system: police, courts and corrections. The program enables students to apply for jobs in policing, corrections, courts and other related disciplines. Or students can continue their education toward a graduate degree in criminal justice, sociology and social work. 

The University also offers a number of clubs, organizations and student activities designed to further learning: the Justice Force (hands-on police related activities), the Justice League and the Spartan Nation Liberation Foundation (raise awareness about and prevent human trafficking). 

Students pursuing a criminal justice degree at Iowa Wesleyan University can expect a combination of coursework focusing on three basic components: the police, course and corrections, plus hands-on learning through internships. Total credits required for the undergraduate program are 36, while another 18 credits are required for support courses and/or for students who wish to pursue a minor instead. 

Most classes take place during day hours, however there are evening classes at area community colleges and a growing online program. Iowa Wesleyan is located in Mt. Pleasant and was formed in 1842. Students enjoy smaller class sizes and various arts and culture opportunities.