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Wesleyan Introduces Criminal Justice Major
released: 04/26/02
Beginning in fall 2002, West Virginia Wesleyan will offer students a new degree program in criminal justice. The new major will be housed in the Sociology Department, and will be built upon the foundation of courses already offered in sociology, political science, and psychology. This interdisciplinary major will not only draw on the valuable faculty resources currently available at the College, but will be led by a specialist in criminal justice who will develop the program, seek community involvement and support, and endeavor to link the program to important resources in the area, such as the FBI Center in Clarksburg.

"It's a very exciting time," said Dr. John Toth, assistant professor of sociology. "The development of a new major adds an extra energy to everyone involved. In addition to providing opportunities to offer new and innovative courses, the criminal justice major will allow us in sociology to work collaboratively in a more applied field."

The new major is being created in a liberal arts context in accordance with the College's mission. The combination of criminal justice courses and practical experience with related liberal arts courses will provide students with an intellectually broad and well-rounded education. "This is an education that prepares students to be leaders in their fields," noted Dean of the College Richard Weeks. "It has worked for students in business, education, and other career-oriented fields here, and it will work in criminal justice."

"I am very excited about the new criminal justice major," said President William R. Haden. "The College is committed to responding to student programmatic needs, and initiating this major is one way we are doing so. With many components already in place, criminal justice is ensured a smooth transition into the curriculum."

Wesleyan decided to add the new major in response to student demand reported by the Admission Office. Increased interest in criminal justice has also been evident the last couple of years, with several students approved to complete specially designed criminal justice programs of study.

"Criminal justice is a growing field," Toth said. "There is good student demand nationally as well as locally. Wesleyan is effectively keeping up with the times by adjusting the curriculum to reflect student interest and changes in society."

While a degree in criminal justice can lead to various career paths, many students tend to pursue positions in law enforcement, the courts, and the correctional system.