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School of Justice Studies

College of Justice, Safety & Military Science

School of Justice Studies

College of Justice, Safety & Military Science

Contribute to Making Society Safer and Pursue a Justice Studies Career

A focus on quality, individualized instruction

The demand for trained criminal justice professionals is on the rise. Designated a Council on Post-Secondary Education “Program of Distinction”, the EKU School of Justice Studies (SJS) provides a stimulating learning environment that promotes critical thinking, a practical understanding of justice issues, and an open exchange of ideas. Our experienced faculty strive to maintain a low student to faculty ratio, allowing a focus on individualized instruction despite being one of the largest programs in the nation devoted to justice education. SJS proudly offers degrees in criminal justice, police studies, corrections and juvenile justice, as well as a graduate degree in criminology and criminal justice, that will help you contribute to society and prepare you for a justice-related career.

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Why Study Justice Studies?

Justice studies are inherently interdisciplinary, concentrating on the
various aspects of policing, courts, and corrections that impact societal understandings of, and responses to, crime. There are underlying cultural, economic, sociological, and political issues in the field that must be understood to be handled appropriately. Providing students with the most current knowledge in the field prepares them to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex, technological, and diverse society. Whether you want to be a law enforcement officer, court administrator, or victims advocate, there are many ways to make an impact in this broad career field.

We are committed to exemplary teaching, research and philosophy that is grounded in:

  • Cutting-edge scholarship
  • Engaging students in critical inquiry, logical and ethical thinking
  • Direct engagement of the social world to develop a deep and practical understanding of justice problems
  • Service to the community, university, and profession

Student Stories & Features


Amber Napier poses for a selfie.

Amber Napier

EKU Criminal Justice Student
By earning this degree it has opened the door to many different possibilities and I can not wait to explore them all. I found it surprising how much I did not really understand about our criminal justice system until I started this program. Now I can not wait to use my degree to help make a change in our system.
Outside and wearing sunglasses and a beard, Matt Agee pulls out his shirt to display the EKU Alumni logo

Matt Agee

EKU Criminal Justice Student
Earning this degree has expanded my mind tremendously on various issues throughout the criminal justice system. I plan on using this degree as a stepping stone that will make me more marketable, employable, and promotable with future employers. I would never have found the success of a 4.0 GPA without the aid of EKU’s online faculty. The professors truly want to see you succeed and your advisor will be there with you every step of the way.
photo of EKU criminal justice student Justin Robinson

Justin Robinson

EKU Criminal Justice Student
Balancing the active duty military life, working as a paramedic, a family, and being a college student definitely takes its toll. The criminal justice professors and advisors are the utmost supportive, understanding, and professional people I have had the pleasure of getting to learn and grow from.

Upcoming Events

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Plain
Thu
13

2025 EKU Living with Animals Conference

March 13, 2025 at 8:00 am – March 15, 2025 at 5:00 pmcalendar-multiday
Fri
14
Fri
14

Feel Better Fast! Weekly Drop-in Workshops to Improve Mood

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Sat
15

Residence Halls Close

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Mon
17

Spring Break

March 17, 2025 – March 21, 2025calendar-multiday

News & Updates

Aviation Careers Beyond the Cockpit: EKU Graduates Soar in Aerospace Management

Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) isn’t just preparing students to pilot planes—it’s launching them into high-powered careers managing some of Kentucky’s most critical aviation hubs. From strategic innovation to airport operations, EKU aviation alumni are proving that aerospace management offers dynamic, impactful career paths. Hannah Meredith, ’15, leads innovation initiatives as the senior manager of strategic […]

The Right Fit

Beau Mosley, ’23, started his career as a police officer for the Kentucky State Police in 2009, then moved into transportation safety. Now Mosley is the chief risk officer and executive vice president for Usher Transport, Inc. The Hindman, Kentucky, native chose to attend EKU to carry on his family’s Colonel legacy, as his late […]

Empowered by Community: EKU Graduate’s Journey from College to Career

Richmond, Kentucky native and now Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) graduate Jenna Riel shared the value of support, community and opportunities as she took the stage for spring commencement. “This sense of community and the network of support that EKU has granted us has been the foundation for our success,” she said.  Riel expressed gratitude for […]

Contact Information

School of Justice Studies

Stratton Building
Room 467
4453 Kit Carson Drive
Richmond, KY 40475

859-622-1978
jus.dean@eku.edu