In response to a growing regional need and call for more community-minded justice professionals, the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is excited to announce the launch of a new Criminal Justice major—a bold step toward broadening public safety and community service in Northeast Wisconsin.
This new program builds on the success of UW-Green Bay’s high-enrollment Criminal Justice minor, introduced in 2021, which currently serves over 100 students. The major is designed to cultivate a new generation of curious, service-driven leaders who are equipped to think critically about justice, equity and the role of law enforcement in society.
“There is a need in Wisconsin for individuals with specialized knowledge in areas like juvenile and criminal law, drug use and abuse, forensic science and human trafficking. UW-Green Bay is stepping up to meet the moment and will play an important role in meeting this community need, ” said UW-Green Bay Assistant Professor Christopher Kleps. “This major is more than a career pathway—it’s an opportunity for students to become leaders and ensure collaboration and positive change in their worlds.”
UW-Green Bay’s Criminal Justice major is rooted in social justice and interdisciplinary learning. The curriculum pairs theory with real-world application, emphasizing critical analytical skills, equity in practice and lifelong community wellbeing. Students will explore how to prevent crime not just through enforcement, but by enhancing social opportunity and fostering trust.
This approach aligns with the vision of local law enforcement leaders, who see the program as a way to broaden the mindset of all criminal justice professionals and deepen understanding of community engagement and service.
The new major is ideal for current high school seniors and working professionals in the field who are seeking to advance their careers or expand their skill sets. A recent report shows that earning a Criminal Justice degree can lead to a 9.5% increase in lifetime earnings, along with access to a wide range of careers in law enforcement, security, criminal justice reform and other specialized fields.
Graduates will be uniquely positioned to lead in a variety of roles—not just as officers, but as advocates, analysts and changemakers who understand the complex social dynamics that shape justice in America. UW-Green Bay anticipates that half of the current minors will transition into the major, with an expected 25–30 new students enrolling each year.
“We want to do more than just quickly fill jobs,” said Kleps. “Our focus is on preparing thoughtful, ethical leaders who can help build safer, stronger and more just communities through critical thinking and evidence-based policies.”
Applications are now open. To learn more about the bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and how to apply, visit the home page.
About UW-Green Bay
The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay is a school of resilient problem solvers who dare to reach higher with the power of education that ignites growth and answers the biggest challenges. Serving 11,198 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students as well as 85,883 continuing education learners annually, UW-Green Bay offers 200 academic degrees, programs, and certificates. With four campus locations in Northeast Wisconsin, the University’s access mission welcomes all students who want to learn, from every corner of the world. Championing bold thinking since opening its doors in 1965, it is a university on the rise – Wisconsin’s fastest growing UW. For more information, visit www.uwgb.edu.
Written by Kristin Bouchard
Link to original story: https://news.uwgb.edu/phlash/releases/08/28/uw-green-bay-launches-criminal-justice-bachelors-degree-to-empower-future-leaders-and-strengthen-communities/