Criminal Justice B.S., Law Enforcement and Homeland Security Concentration

Criminal Justice student at the Criminal Justice Career Fair.

Explore Law Enforcement and Homeland Security

The Law Enforcement and Homeland Security Concentration offers Criminal Justice majors a deep dive into the pressing issues and challenges in modern law enforcement and national security. This concentration is ideal for students aiming for careers in law enforcement or those interested in the critical balance between public safety and individual rights. With a curriculum focused on contemporary problems, criminal investigations, and the evolution of American law enforcement, this program equips students with the expertise needed to navigate and address complex issues in the field. Open to all Criminal Justice majors, this concentration prepares graduates for impactful roles in safeguarding communities while upholding justice and civil liberties.

Program Highlights

  • Study critical topics like terrorism and criminal investigation
  • Prepare for careers in law enforcement with courses on investigations and public safety
  • Gain practical skills through internships and independent studies

Shape Your Future in Law Enforcement and Homeland Security

Discover specialized training and hands-on experience that will prepare you for a dynamic career in protecting and serving our communities.

Enhance Your Skills: Master the Field with Practical Experience

  • Students in a criminal justice class working in a group.

    Specialized Expertise

    Learn the complexities of modern law enforcement and homeland security. Gain a deep understanding of pressing issues like cyber threats and public safety strategies.

  • Two criminal justice students talking with an officer.

    Career-Ready Training

    Prepare for impactful roles with practical skills and real-world scenarios, equipping you with the tools needed to excel in law enforcement careers.

  • A Criminal Justice professor stands in front of a projection screen while instructing their class of students.

    In-Depth Curriculum

    Explore critical topics like contemporary problems in law enforcement and terrorism. Study current challenges and innovative solutions in the field.

What Can You Do with a Law Enforcement and Homeland Security Concentration

With a Law Enforcement and Homeland Security concentration, you’ll be equipped with specialized knowledge and skills that open doors to a range of career opportunities. Here are some career options:

  • Criminal Investigator
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Emergency Management Coordinator
  • Federal Agent
  • Homeland Security Specialist
  • Police Officer
  • Public Safety Officer
  • Terrorism Analyst
Criminal justice alumni at Career Fair.

Ready to learn more?

Course Requirements

Program Description

The Law Enforcement and Homeland Security concentration is designed to provide Criminal Justice majors with a more in-depth and focused understanding of contemporary issues and problems in law enforcement and homeland security. This concentration will be particularly relevant for students who are interested in pursuing careers in law enforcement and those who are interested in understanding the balance between public safety and civil rights and liberties. The concentration is open to all Criminal Justice majors.

Requirements for the Criminal Justice Major

The Criminal Justice major consists of 42 credits. All students must complete at least 21 credits of Criminal Justice coursework at Westfield State University. There are six required courses in the major (Major Core) that comprise 18 of the 42 required credits. All Criminal Justice majors must complete the Major Core courses with a minimum grade point average of 2.5, and no grade in any of the Major Core courses may be below a C-. Students may repeat any of these courses in order to meet this requirement, in accordance with the University's Course Repeat Policy.

  • Students are not required to take a concentration for the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Degree
  • Students may take only one concentration for the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Degree, even if they have completed the coursework for more than one concentration

Major Core Courses

Requirements for Law Enforcement and Homeland Security Concentration

UPPER-DIVISION ELECTIVES

Students choose upper-level electives in the major to complete 21 credits for the major, 18 of these upper-division elective credits must be from the courses listed below, to complete the 42-credit requirement. Students may take any other 3 upper-division credit Criminal Justice elective to complete the 21-credit upper-division credit requirement for the major.

Additional Graduation Requirements

All students must meet the University Graduation Requirements and complete a general education or common core of studies, distributed among the different academic areas as detailed in General Education: WISE or Common Core.

Get big school features with small school advantages. 

We offer high-quality academics, unique learning opportunities, and a gorgeous campus—and we have small classes, accessible faculty, and one-on-one support. 

You'll join fellow motivated students ready to make the most of the college experience through active participation. Become part of a caring and committed community that understands and embraces the bridge between academic study and civic responsibility.

  • Largest Criminal Justice, Government, and Non-Profit Career Fair in the Northeast held on campus

  • 92%+

    of faculty hold doctorates 

  • 700+

    Internship opportunities

Learn from industry experts

The Criminal Justice Department is made up of 12 full-time faculty who are dedicated to undergraduate teaching. You’ll learn from professors who have expertise in homeland security, religious extremism, law enforcement, corrections and rehabilitation, criminal law, juvenile justice, gangs, multinational crime, crime mapping, and more.

A Criminal Justice professor stands in front of a projection screen while instructing their class of students.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Westfield State University accredited?

Westfield State University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).

Do I have to submit SAT/ACT scores or an essay when I apply?

Westfield State University does not require an application essay, SAT and/or ACT scores, or letters of recommendation (except for special program admissions).     

All first-year applicants are reviewed for admission based on their high school record. First-year applicants must meet the minimum eligibility requirements established by the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education (DHE) in order to qualify for admission to a state university.   

Learn more about the application process and admissions here.

How much does Westfield State University cost?

Westfield State University offers a comprehensive university experience at an affordable cost—with many options for financial aid. Visit our Cost and Aid page to learn more. 

Will I receive academic support?

We’re invested in your success. Whether you need a little help adjusting to college, study strategies, tutoring, or disability services, the team at the Academic Achievement Department is ready to help. Our mission is to provide you with the tools to explore academic opportunities as well as to plot strategies for continued growth. 

Learn more about our student support services here.

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Criminal Justice B.S., Law Enforcement and Homeland Security Concentration