LOGAN – Utah State University is about to add to its long history of training law enforcement officers, with a decision — effective this fall — to offer a bachelor of arts and bachelor of science in criminal justice, in addition to its existing associate degree.

Program Director and Professor of Criminal Justice Scott Henrie said it is a high-demand field and positions for patrol, correctional and probation officers are all on the rise.

“There are many job opportunities within the criminal justice arena, and many require a four-year degree,” said Henrie. “It will give students who want to pursue more advanced degrees, such as a law degree, a good base and help current officers achieve promotions in the criminal justice field.”

USU began offering a major in sociology with a criminal justice emphasis in 2017 and this change will create expanded options for upper-division courses.

USU’s Department of Sociology and Anthropology will still be home to the new criminal justice program but it’s being a standalone should make it easier for prospective students to recognize.

Henrie, a former sheriff’s deputy and probation agent, has been working with Wildland Resources faculty to meet the demand for students trained to work for state and federal agencies including the U.S. Forest Service, Bureau of Land Management and National Park Service.

Those with an interest in the new program may schedule an exploration appointment with College of Humanities and Social Sciences adviser Bailey Longhurst.