Current nation-wide trends are to upgrade the qualifications and education of criminal justice practitioners.
Many agencies now require a four-year degree in order to gain appointment.
The Criminal Justice Department offers programs that meet these needs as well as addressing the increasing demand for knowledge in all areas of criminal justice. The primary goal of the department is to prepare students to become qualified criminal justice professionals and to assist the community in addressing crime and justice related issues. The Criminal Justice Department at Washburn University utilizes an advisory board that includes members from criminal justice agencies and alumni who provide assistance in curriculum development and assist the department in preparing students for work in the profession. One advantage that Washburn offers is small class size and thus more attention can be given to the individual student. Each student in the department utilizes the talents of a faculty advisor.