Exploring the Best Criminal Justice Degree Programs for Nevada Students

According to the 2012 U.S. Peace Index report, Nevada is one of the least peaceful states in the country, which makes it imperative to have highly-skilled professionals combating crime. Equally important are the places these professionals are trained: the many different criminal justice schools in Nevada. From large cities like Las Vegas to small rural communities, Nevada presents many opportunities for those who want to work in the criminal justice field—whether they are fighting crime on the street or in the courtroom. This guide explores the educational and career opportunities available to those interested in attending criminal justice school in Nevada. Continue reading to find where the best programs are offered, as well as the common jobs graduates pursue across the state.

Potential students have many educational options when it comes to criminal justice schools in Nevada. This can make choosing a school challenging. In order to help students make this important decision, this list scores criminal justice schools around the state, based on the cost of tuition, acceptance and enrollment rates and student-teacher ratios, to find the best colleges with criminal justice programs.

The Best Criminal Justice in Nevada

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1. University of Nevada-Las Vegas

   Location

   Las Vegas, NV

   Graduation Rate

   41%

   View School Profile

   The University of Nevada _ Las Vegas offers a bachelor's degree in criminal justice that emphasizes criminal law and its origins, the nature and causes of criminal activity, and ways to reduce crime. Students learn about the history of the criminal justice system, and how it has evolved with the social and political context of the legal system. Beyond crime-specific studies, students will learn about social science research and statistics. Academic advisors are available to guide students in course selection. They can also refer students to campus services that may be of assistance, from the disability resource center to the math tutoring clinic.

2. Nevada State College

   Location

   Henderson, NV

   Graduation Rate

   16%

   View School Profile

   Criminal justice is a relatively new program at Nevada State College. Students learn about the basics of criminal justice in a framework that takes into consideration social justice and global perspectives. Curriculum also emphasizes the importance of working with the local community, as well as giving back to them. Students with an associate's degree in criminal justice from a regionally accredited community college are encouraged to transfer their credits and enter the program to earn a bachelor's degree. The school offers several tools to promote student success, from academic advising for educational and personal objectives, to tutoring, financial aid, and resources for disabled students.

Professional Resources for Criminal Justice in Nevada

Business Compliance Resources

• Association of Corporate Counsel, Nevada
  A membership organization made up of corporate in-house attorneys across the state of Nevada. The group offers educational programs , networking events and hosts a job listing and pro bono resource page on this site.
• The Chamber of Commerce, Reno-Sparks-Northern Nevada
  From business events and forums to advocacy in legislature and politics, the Chamber connects businesses and operates as the economic voice for the community.
• Division of Industrial Relations
  The state's Division of Industrial Relations ensures that professionals in Nevada work in safe environments. The agency oversees workers' compensation, occupational safety, legal and mechanical compliance and safety training.
• Nevada Secretary of State, Business Center
  Nevada's Secretary of State office provides crucial information for those who want to run businesses in Nevada. The site includes information on how to start an LLC, partnership or corporation and offers access to forms and legislation that governs business operations.

Correctional Resources

• Nevada Cure
  A group that supports and advocates for Nevada prisoners, family and friends by working to enact reformed criminal justice policies, procedures and programs. Use this page for insight on issues affecting prisoners in the Nevada correctional system.
• Nevada Department of Corrections, Code of Ethics
  This page of the Department of Corrections outlines the code of conduct expected from those who work in the corrections industry. This is a helpful resource for those interested in pursuing education in corrections.
• Nevada Department of Parole and Probation
  This division of the Department of Public Safety focuses on transferring inmates from correctional facilities back into the community. Details on the department's different programs and job postings can be found here.
• Nevada Juvenile Justice Services
  Part of the Department of Health and Human Services, the JJS focuses on youth criminal offenders between the ages of 12 and 21. Operating three Youth Training Centers in the state, the JJS designs programs to prevent participants from re-offending.

Court and Judicial Resources

• CASA Las Vegas
  CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, assist in cases involving abused and neglected children. This volunteer-based program provides courtroom and legal procedural training to familiarize Advocates with children's legal issues.
• Kids Court School
  A program taught by law students at the University of Nevada Las Vegas that focuses on teaching children and youth how the court system works. The program has received national recognition for preparing kids who will be part of court cases for real trials.
• Nevada's Judicial Branch - Nevada Legislature
  This site provides an overview of the state's judicial branch, including information on district, municipal, specialty and justice courts.
• Nevada Judiciary
  This website contains information about the court system of Nevada, such as programs and services that are offered by the state's judiciary. In addition, the site has legal forms and a self-help legal center.

Legal Resources

• ACLU of Nevada
  Since 1966, the Nevada branch of the American Civil Liberties Union has fought for the rights of Nevadans through litigation, lobbying and education services. Local events, volunteer opportunities and current cases and campaign information can be found here.
• Nevada Legal Services
  This is a non-profit organization that provides pro bono legal services to low-income Nevada residents. The group offers internships and volunteer opportunities for those interested in legal work.
• Nevada Private Investigators Licensing Board
  Those interested in becoming a private investigator can review the information on this site. Details on licensing, exams and legal practices can be found here.
• Northern Nevada Women Lawyers Association
  Founded in 1978, this professional organization connects, advances and advocates for women in the legal industry in Northern Nevada. Information on legal news, networking and special events and the group's blog can be found here.
• Paralegal Division, Nevada State Bar
  The Paralegal Division of the State Bar of Nevada organizes professional events and continuing education courses to help these legal support professionals best serve the attorneys and businesses they work for.
• State Bar of Nevada
  In concert with the Nevada Supreme Court, the bar association creates work standards for attorneys and offers education and professional development programs.

Law Enforcement Resources

• Department of Public Safety
  This government agency oversees the state's highway patrol, capitol police, emergency management and parole and probation services. Get details on each facet of protective service here.
• Nevada Association of Public Safety Officers
  A membership organization for law enforcement officers across Nevada, the group provides events, blogs and news for those who work as public safety officers in Nevada.
• Nevada Highway Patrol
  Those interested in learning more about the Nevada Highway Patrol, including their training programs, traffic laws and the agency's enforcement protocols can visit this page.
• Nevada State Law Enforcement Officers' Association
  The NSLEOA represents the needs of 23 law enforcement agencies around the state, including driving legal and legislative initiatives.
• Nevada Sheriffs and Chiefs Association
  This group is dedicated to creating a fellowship among police sheriffs and chiefs around Nevada. The organization provides training programs and networking events for members.

Wildlife and Environmental Resources

• Nevada Department of Wildlife, Law Enforcement Division
  This state agency manages fish and wildlife resources in Nevada, and the duties and initiatives of game wardens in the state are outlined on this page.
• Nevada Division of Forestry
  The government agency charged with protecting Nevada's forests and land, including law enforcement and land stewardship and ethics. Details on the state fire program as well as job information is included.
• Nevada Division of Environmental Protection
  From mining regulations to waste management and air quality control, the Nevada DEP is the governing body of legal restrictions and regulatory practices concerning the environment in the state. Employment information can also be found here.
• Nevada National Guard Environmental Department
  This page details how the Nevada branch of the National Guard helps protect and enforce environmental laws and regulations across the state. Those interested in service can explore the Guard's other initiatives in the community and public affairs sectors as well.
• Western Environmental Law Center, Nevada
  A public policy group advocating for political and legislative reforms in regards to environmental practices across the western United States. Initiatives are detailed on this site, which also directs users on ways to help each cause.