Best Criminal Justice Schools in North Dakota

Top Criminal Justice Schools and Programs Offered in North Dakota

Criminal justice schools in North Dakota train students to fight against drug trafficking, solve crimes and protect the general public. Since North Dakota sits on the Canadian border, there is an ongoing demand for border patrol and law enforcement officers that protect the nation's security. The United States Justice Department provides funding for many law enforcement, narcotics control and security initiatives every year. Those looking to be a part of the border patrol crew or work directly with civilians will find a variety of attractive career opportunities across the state. Learn about educational requirements and career information for criminal justice jobs in North Dakota.

• Best Criminal Justice Schools in North Dakota for 2017
• Search North Dakota Criminal Justice Schools
• North Dakota's Most Popular Criminal Justice Careers
• Side by Side: How North Dakota Compares
• After Criminal Justice School in North Dakota: What's Next?
• North Dakota Criminal Justice Resources

BEST CRIMINAL JUSTICE SCHOOLS IN NORTH DAKOTA

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OUR METHODOLOGY+

To be considered for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria:

• Accredited at the institutional level
• Private nonprofit or public school
• Minimum of 1 bachelor's or master's degree in subject area for 4-year schools
• Minimum of 1 associate degree or certificate program in subject area for 2-year schools

Schools were then scored on factors such as:

• Cost & Financial Aid
• Number and variety of program offerings
• Student-teacher ratios
• Graduation rates (4-year schools only)
• Placement and support services offered
• Academic/Career counseling services
• Employment services
• Loan default rates

These factors were assembled for each school and rated using a peer-based-value (PBV) calculation. PBV compares the cost of a program to the cost of other programs with the same (or similar) qualitative score and cost. PBV denotes the overall value or "bang for your buck" of a college or degree program.

Finding criminal justice schools in North Dakota that offer the right degree level and training for different legal and protective service jobs in the state can be a challenge for some. To help students find the best program that meets their individual needs, we have analyzed criminal justice schools and programs across the county to find 2017's best academic options. Use the ranking list below to narrow down the search process and compare different schools by enrollment numbers, tuition, acceptance rate and other key factors.

Top 10 Bachelor Criminal Justice Schools in North Dakota

#1	University of North Dakota Grand Forks, ND
#2	North Dakota State University Fargo, ND
#3	Minot State University Minot, ND
#4	United Tribes Technical College Bismarck, ND
#5	University of Mary Bismarck, ND
#6	University of Jamestown Jamestown, ND

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1. University of North Dakota

   Location

   Grand Forks, ND

   Graduation Rate

   52%

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   The criminal justice bachelor's program at the University of North Dakota draws on a multidisciplinary approach, taking resources from the criminal justice, sociology, philosophy and anthropology departments. The program prepares students for entry-level careers in the criminal justice system, for graduate school or law programs. There are also options for those already working in criminal justice to expand their knowledge. Students study topics like policing, corrections and juvenile delinquency. They also learn solid theoretical approaches to criminal justice. Students can also choose from a list of electives on topics like correctional alternatives and criminal investigation.

2. North Dakota State University

   Location

   Fargo, ND

   Graduation Rate

   53%

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   At the North Dakota State University-Main Campus, students can study to obtain a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Students learn about the courts, corrections, social services and law enforcement systems. After completing the program, students can go on to work in law enforcement, probation, correctional work, victim advocacy and halfway houses. Graduates have even gone on to work for the FBI, U.S. Secret Service and the Bureau of Criminal Investigation. Students take courses in behavioral science, humanities, social sciences, computer science and accounting to prepare for their careers. The program also focuses on fostering a well-rounded education in general education requirement subjects like composition, science and wellness.

3. Minot State University

   Location

   Minot, ND

   Graduation Rate

   33%

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   Students at Minot State University learn about the issues facing criminal justice systems both in the United States and the world at large. Students learn about concerns like prison overcrowding, domestic abuse and terrorism. The program prepares students to enter the workforce upon graduation, or to pursue graduate-level work after their undergraduate studies. Students can expect to graduate and get careers in the law, courts, corrections, juvenile justice or law enforcement. As part of the bachelor's program, there is also a Peace Officer Training Program (POST) every spring semester, which allows students to graduate with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and a POST certification.

4. United Tribes Technical College

   Location

   Bismarck, ND

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   The United Tribes Technical College offers a bachelor's degree in criminal justice. Students gain a wide range of skills related to criminal justice so they can enter the field upon graduation. Students can expect to be prepared to work as state, federal or tribal law enforcers, correction officers, victim advocates, in homeland security, in military investigative services or as probation officers. As part of the program goals, students will be able to maintain professional conduct, use criminology theory, use technological abilities, use communication skills and process ethical decision-making abilities. Students will study pertinent topics like criminal law, drugs & crime, media relations, policing and criminal investigations.

5. University of Mary

   Location

   Bismarck, ND

   Graduation Rate

   20%

   View School Profile

   The University of Mary's Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice will prepare students to enter a wide array of criminal justice professions, from law enforcement to the correctional system to the judicial system. The school prides itself on being grounded in Christian values that will help students work on a humanitarian level. The program boasts the years of experience in the field the professors who teach criminal justice courses have. That, along with internship opportunities, will give students real-world experience. Students go on to work in criminal justice across multiple systems like corrections, juvenile justice, homeland security and private security.

6. University of Jamestown

   Location

   Jamestown, ND

   Graduation Rate

   50%

   View School Profile

   The University of Jamestown offers a number of resources to students in the criminal justice department. Students have internship opportunities to pursue, for starters. The major also pairs well with complementary minors and other majors so students can have more direction in planning their career paths. The classes are small so students get one-on-one attention from professors. There are also field experiences and co-curricular activities that give students a hands-on approach to their learning, like the Criminal Justice Club. Students will be prepared to work at local, state and federal levels.

Explore Online Criminal Justice Degree Programs in North Dakota

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Top 10 Associate Criminal Justice Schools in North Dakota

#1	Lake Region State College Devils Lake, ND

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1. Lake Region State College

   Location

   Devils Lake, ND

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   Lake Region State College was accredited in 1973 to offer the first two years of a baccalaureate education in fields including technology, law enforcement, and health care. Associate degree programs are available in 18 majors, and there are 10 certificate and certificate of completions in a range of career disciplines. The 60-credit associate in applied sciences degree program in law enforcement can be completed in two years and is offered at the Devils Lake Campus and online, including the state peace officer training component. The one-semester certificate in peace officer training satisfies North Dakota training requirements.

POPULAR NORTH DAKOTA CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREERS

Criminal justice careers North Dakota are government-funded positions, and there is an ongoing need for highly trained individuals in this field. For instance, in 2015 North Dakota received a $447,000 grant to manage its 11 narcotic task forces alone, in addition to other financial backings. Some careers require completing an academy program while others require at least a bachelor's degree or certification in the field. Use the tool below to compare some of the most popular criminal justice careers in North Dakota.

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Police, Sheriff & Highway Patrol Officers

• Total Employed in North Dakota
  1,280
• Median Salary in North Dakota
  $50,740
• Degree Level Required in North Dakota
  Academy Program

Correctional Officer

• Total Employed in North Dakota
  920
• Median Salary in North Dakota
  $38,170
• Degree Level Required in North Dakota
  Certification

Compliance Officer

• Total Employed in North Dakota
  1,100
• Median Salary in North Dakota
  $59,680
• Degree Level Required in North Dakota
  Bachelor's

Paralegal and Legal Assistant

• Total Employed in North Dakota
  420
• Median Salary in North Dakota
  $42,630
• Degree Level Required in North Dakota
  Varies; up to Bachelor's

Court, Municipal and License Clerks

• Total Employed in North Dakota
  290
• Median Salary in North Dakota
  $42,750
• Degree Level Required in North Dakota
  Varies; up to Bachelor's

Detectives and Criminal Investigators

• Total Employed in North Dakota
  290
• Median Salary in North Dakota
  $77,210
• Degree Level Required in North Dakota
  Varies; up to Bachelor's

Probation Officer

• Total Employed in North Dakota
  150
• Median Salary in North Dakota
  $51,530
• Degree Level Required in North Dakota
  Bachelor's

NORTH DAKOTA CRIMINAL JUSTICE CAREERS IN COMPARISON TO THE NATIONAL AVERAGE

Criminal justice jobs with attractive pay ranges can be found in larger cities and populated areas, including Fargo, Grand Forks, Watford City and Mandan. County governments, correctional facilities and sheriff's offices in major cities are some good places to start the job search. Spending some time comparing salaries and available jobs in these areas with national averages can help to find the right fit. The table below illustrates the different career options available in North Dakota compared to national averages.

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NORTH DAKOTA EMPLOYERS LOOKING TO HIRE CRIMINAL JUSTICE GRADUATES

Grand Forks, Bismarck, Fargo and Hillsboro are some of the larger cities with shopping malls, high-traffic public areas, and neighborhoods with high crime rates. Many available criminal justice position are government-funded and focus on law enforcement and security initiatives along the Canadian border. The table below highlights the largest areas of employment, as well as annual wages for jobs in legal and protective services in different areas.

• Protective Services
  Potential Employers
  Bailiffs at Ward County Jail; Correctional Officers and Jailers at SWMCCC; Detectives and Criminal Investigators at private investigation firms; Fish and Game Wardens at Cross Ranch State Park; Parking Enforcement Workers for the North Dakota City Government; Police and Sheriff's Patrol Officers at Bismarck Police Department; Transit and Railroad Police for North Dakota Department of Transportation; Animal Control Workers for Central Dakota Humane Society; Private Detectives and Investigators for investigation and law enforcement firms; Gaming Surveillance Officers and Gaming Investigators at various North Dakota gaming destinations; Security Guards for retailers and commercial properties; Crossing Guards at North Dakota schools; Lifeguards, Ski Patrol and Other Recreational Protective Service Workers at North Dakota State Parks and recreational areas; Transportation Security Screeners
  Total Number of Employees in North Dakota: 6,370
• Legal Occupations
  Potential Employers
  Lawyers at North Dakota Law Firms; Judicial Law Clerks at North Dakota Supreme Court; Administrative Law Judges, Adjudicators and Hearing Officers at North Dakota Supreme Court; Arbitrators, Mediators and Conciliators at North Dakota courts system; Judges, Magistrate Judges and Magistrates for the North Dakota Courts System; Paralegals and Legal Assistants for North Dakota Courts and Law Firms; Court Reporters for North Dakota Supreme Court and North Dakota Court Systems; Title Examiners, Abstractors and Searchers for North Dakota Real Estate Agents and Attorneys; Legal Support Workers for area law firms.
  Total Number of Employees in North Dakota: 1,910

LARGEST AREAS OF EMPLOYMENT IN DESCENDING ORDER

PROFESSIONAL RESOURCES FOR CRIMINAL JUSTICE IN NORTH DAKOTA

BUSINESS COMPLIANCE RESOURCES

• North Dakota State Government - New Business Startup Resource
  This website serves as a resource for entrepreneurs and business owners from the State Government. Includes rules and regulations for nonprofits, business registration details and online services.
• Center for Retail Compliance - North Dakota Resources
  This website provides Information about federal environmental regulations and rules from the North Dakota Department of Health (DOH). Includes information about hazardous waste, inspections and recycling laws.
• North Dakota Secretary of State - Business Services
  This site provides resources for business owners and information about trademarks, copyright laws and patents. Also includes details about business structures, franchises and professional employer organizations.
• North Dakota District Office, U.S. Small Business Administration
  The U.S. SBA promotes small business growth by providing information and financing resources to entrepreneurs.
• Greater North Dakota Chamber
  The GNDC has educational resources on issues and legislation that affects business owners in the state of North Dakota as well as a membership program and resources for business success.
• Economic Development Association of North Dakota
  This group provides resources and legislative information for people who are interested in the economic development of business communities in North Dakota.

CORRECTIONAL RESOURCES

• Careers in Corrections - North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
  Those interested in a career in corrections can reference this page for details about different types of career opportunities. Job openings in different business units are listed on the North Dakota State Government job board.
• Pierce County North Dakota - A Career in Corrections
  Those looking for a rewarding career in the field of corrections can follow the instructions on this site. HACTC provides correctional officer basic training in Bismarck, ND, within the first year of hire and all tools and equipment.
• North Dakota Youth Correctional Center
  Individuals interested in working exclusively with youth can explore career options at the North Dakota Youth Correctional Center in Mandan, ND. This page includes contact information about the correctional facility designed for troubled adolescents.
• Parole and Probation Services, North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation
  This division's role is to improve public safety for people who are on supervision after legal infractions.
• North Dakota, The Council of State Governments Justice Center
  The CSG provides information about research-driven strategies to improve criminal justice and public safety across the country. Part of their purview is to provide recommendations for correctional reform.

COURT & JUDICIAL RESOURCES

• North Dakota State Court
  This website provides full access to North Dakota District Court Case information for all types of cases. Search results include municipal court cases from different areas.
• United States District Court for the District of North Dakota
  The United States District Court in North Dakota is located in Bismarck with a divisional office in Fargo. This page features the latest employment listings in North Dakota, as well as national listings for those looking for career opportunities.
• North Dakota State Government Job Board
  Those interested in working in corrections, human services, or the legal field can explore job opportunities updated regularly on this job board. The job board makes it easy to save jobs and apply online.
• North Dakota Court Reporters Association
  The NDCRA provides networking opportunities and resources for court reporters in the state of North Dakota.
• Alternative Dispute Resolution in North Dakota
  This government page provides information about alternative dispute resolution in North Dakota.
• Criminal Justice, American Civil Liberties Union of North Dakota
  The ACLU of North Dakota provides information and resources about its efforts to ensure that criminal justice issues comply with human rights principles.

LEGAL RESOURCES

• Legal Services of North Dakota
  This non-profit organization provides free legal assistance to low income individuals and the elderly in North Dakota. The site lists pro bono opportunities and law internships for those who want to gain valuable skills working in the legal field.
• American Civil Liberties Union of North Dakota
  This website provides updates about the latest events and activities of the American Civil Liberties Union. It works to ensure all prisons, jails and juvenile facilities comply with the Constitution, federal law, and international human rights principles. The Careers section of the site features the latest job listings with the organization.
• North Dakota Supreme Court - Legal Research
  This site includes a comprehensive list of legal resources for law students and lawyers, including the North Dakota Constitution, North Dakota Statutes and bankruptcy court information.
• State Bar Association of North Dakota
  A resource for lawyers and the public, the SBAND provides continuing legal education, information about the bar and updates about community-related events.
• Western Dakota Association of Legal Assistants
  WDALA is a membership-based organization that provides networking and educational opportunities to paralegals and legal assistants in western North Dakota.
• Red River Valley Paralegal Association
  The RRVPA is a membership-based group that helps with the professional development of paralegals in North Dakota.
• Legal Services of North Dakota
  This non-profit offers legal assistance and representation to low-income and elderly people in North Dakota.

LAW ENFORCEMENT RESOURCES

• City of Fargo Police Department
  Those looking for a job in a community oriented law enforcement agency in Fargo can find information about employment opportunities, testing locations and handbooks for police officers on this website.
• State of North Dakota Private Investigation and Security Board
  This website includes information about qualifications and eligibly requirements for those working in private investigation and securities fields. The site also includes information for license holders, meeting minutes, and news.
• North Dakota Sheriff's and Deputies Association
  A non-profit organization comprised of members from the Sheriff's Office throughout the state, the NDSDA seeks to advance law enforcement practices in North Dakota.
• Law Enforcement Training Academy, North Dakota Highway Patrol
  This page provides information on how to enroll in LETA as well as additional contact information.

WILDLIFE & ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES

• U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service - Agency Presence in North Dakota
  This page provides the latest information about the agency presence of the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service across the state. It outlines the different programs, locations and funding dollars for grant programs.
• North Dakota Farm Bureau - Natural and Environmental Resources
  This organization serves is an advocacy organization for its members and is involved with membership events and other activities. The site includes membership information and details about organizations that support its mission.
• North Dakota Game and Fish Department
  This website is maintained by the North Dakota State Government and includes licensing information, maps, and the latest news relevant to the wildlife and conservation industry.
• Lake Ilo Law Enforcement, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
  This page provides information about the duties of law enforcement when it comes to wildlife conservation.
• Law Enforcement, North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission
  This webpage provides information about the agreements between tribal police and state agencies.