Fairmont State criminal justice student analyzing evidence during a mock investigation.

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (On-Campus & Online)

Criminal Justice Professionals Work to Make Society a Better Place, Ensure Laws Are Upheld, and Protect Our Rights and Communities.

Criminal justice examines the structure, functions, and decision-making processes of agencies that deal with crime and criminal offenders, with additional focus on explaining criminal behavior and motivation. Fairmont State University’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program is offered both on-campus and online. Either program helps you prepare for high-demand careers in criminal justice fields.

The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice online degree offers students more flexibility in balancing school, work, and personal commitments. Our wide selection of elective courses allows for the flexibility to choose courses that best reflect your individual interests and career aspirations. With expert faculty who care about your success, and world class support staff you will find why Fairmont State University is such a Great Place to Learn.

Fast Facts Curriculum: What You’ll Learn Careers Admissions Requirements Tuition & Fees Financial Aid Apply Now Request More Info FAQs

Fast Facts

100%

Flexible

Formats

40+

Years Legacy

20+

Career Paths

1:1

Faculty Support

Value

Low Tuition, High Value

Curriculum: What You’ll Learn

For over forty years, our Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program has built a strong reputation for academic rigor, student success, and career preparation. Our graduates have gone on to make meaningful contributions in law enforcement, corrections, victim services, and more.

This proven track record is the foundation on which we’ve built our Online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program—delivering the same level of excellence, support, and personalized attention that has defined us for decades.

Cybercrime

This course will focus on cybercrime perpetrated via computers and/or other electronic means. This course also addresses the legal issues involved in cybercrime investigations.

Criminal Procedure

This course will deal with constitutional law relating to the police function. Focus will be on the Fourth, Fifth, Sixth and Fourteenth Amendments, which include reasonable suspicion and probably cause, warrant requirements and exceptions, field stops and interviews, interrogations, right to counsel, pretrial identifications, the exclusionary rule and due process. There will be detailed discussion on the reasons for constitutional protections to engender an understanding of and respect for the rights of all people involved in the criminal justice process.

Victimology

This course will introduce students to the issues and legislation regarding victims of crime. Topics include theories of victimology, victim-witness compensation and future directions in identifying and treating victims.

More Criminal Justice Courses

Careers

The B.S. in Criminal Justice can lead to meaningful careers across both public and private sectors. You’re not just learning skills that can land you a rewarding career — you’re making a commitment to protect the rights, property, and lives of your community. Here are just a few of the dozens of careers you might pursue with a B.S. in Criminal Justice.

Fairmont State criminal justice student preparing for a legal career with courtroom documents and a gavel.

U.S. Marshal - $55,897/year

U.S. Marshals serve as the enforcement arm of the federal courts, responsible for apprehending fugitives, transporting prisoners, protecting judges and witnesses, and managing seized assets. This is a high-responsibility, high-impact federal law enforcement career that requires physical readiness, strong decision-making, and a commitment to justice and public service.

FBI Agent - $73,490/year

FBI Special Agents are federal law enforcement officers responsible for investigating and enforcing over 300 federal statutes. Their duties encompass a wide range of activities, including conducting surveillance, gathering and analyzing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and executing arrests. Agents work on diverse cases such as cybercrime, terrorism, organized crime, white-collar crime, and public corruption. The role demands strong analytical skills, integrity, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations 

CIA Operations Officer - $87,091/year

CIA Operations Officers work on the front lines of national security, gathering intelligence through human sources to prevent threats and support U.S. interests. With a background in criminal justice, candidates bring valuable skills in investigation, behavioral analysis, and legal procedures to roles that demand integrity, critical thinking, and discretion under pressure.

Private Detective - $ 52,370/year

Private Detectives and Investigators search for information about legal, financial, and personal matters. They offer services such as verifying people's backgrounds and statements, finding missing persons, and investigating computer crimes. They conduct interviews, perform surveillance, and collect evidence to support their investigations. These professionals often work for individuals, attorneys, or businesses, and may specialize in areas like corporate investigations, legal investigations, or financial fraud.

Fairmont State student earning a criminal justice degree online while studying in a café.

Corporate Investigator - $99,399/year

Corporate Investigators identify and investigate fraud, theft, policy violations, and other internal risks within organizations. They gather and analyze evidence, conduct interviews, and collaborate with legal and HR departments to ensure compliance and protect company assets. This role is common in finance, healthcare, and large corporate environments.

Crime Laboratory Analyst - $67,440/year

Crime Laboratory Analysts, also known as forensic science technicians, play a pivotal role in criminal investigations by collecting, analyzing, and interpreting physical evidence from crime scenes. Their work involves examining substances such as fingerprints, DNA, and other trace materials using scientific techniques and specialized equipment. They prepare detailed reports of their findings and may testify in court as expert witnesses. Typically employed by state or local governments, these professionals work in laboratories or at crime scenes to help solve crimes and ensure justice is served.

Criminal justice students at Fairmont State and law enforcement careers.

Fish and Game Warden - $60,730/year

Fish and game wardens enforce fishing, hunting, and boating laws. They patrol fishing and hunting areas, conduct search and rescue operations, investigate complaints and accidents, and educate the public about laws pertaining to the outdoors. Federal fish and game wardens are often referred to as Federal Wildlife Officers.

Police Officer - $64,610/year

Police Officers protect lives and property by enforcing laws, responding to emergencies, conducting investigations, and making arrests. They patrol assigned areas, gather evidence, write reports, and may testify in court. Officers often work for city, county, or state departments and play a critical role in maintaining public safety.

Criminal justice students at Fairmont State collaborating on a real-world case study.

Fire Investigator - $75,480/year

Fire Investigators examine fire scenes to determine the cause of fires or explosions, often collecting physical evidence and interviewing witnesses. Inspectors assess buildings for fire hazards and ensure compliance with safety codes. Some roles also involve forest fire prevention, hazard patrols, and enforcement of outdoor fire regulations.

Correctional Officer  - $57,950/year

Correctional Officers maintain order and security within jails and prisons. They enforce rules, prevent disturbances and escapes, inspect cells for contraband or safety issues, and monitor interactions between incarcerated individuals and visitors. Officers also escort inmates to court or medical appointments and maintain detailed reports of daily activity.

*Salary information was taken from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Indeed.com, and other career-related sites.
Salaries may vary depending on your location.

Admissions Requirements

There are no specific admissions requirements for the B.S. in Criminal Justice program.

To be admitted to Fairmont State, you’ll need to provide:

Your official high school transcript or GED/TASC (sent by your high school or Department of Education)
ACT or SAT Scores (for students who graduated high school less than 5 years prior to enrollment term) Fairmont State University does not SUPERSCORE results.

Fairmont State University requires students to have at least a 2.0 high school grade point average (GPA) and an 18 ACT composite or 950 SAT total score (870 combined Critical Reading and Math scores taken prior to March 2016) or at least a 3.0 high school GPA and SAT or ACT composite regardless of the score.

Fairmont State may conditionally admit students who do not meet the basic admissions standards. College transcript (if college credit was earned during high school)

Beginning with the Fall 2026 application cycle we will be adjusting our undergraduate admissions requirements to match the newest West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission (WVHEPC) standards. Learn more about admissions requirements here.

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Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (On-Campus & Online)

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