Best College Review: WT’s Online Criminal Justice Program Best in U.S.

Copy by Chip Chandler, 806-651-2124, cchandler@wtamu.edu

CANYON, Texas — West Texas A&M University has the best online bachelor’s degree program in criminal justice administration in the country, according to an independent analyst.

WT’s online bachelor of arts and bachelor of science degree in the field ranked No. 1 on Best College Review’s recently released survey, topping degree programs offered by such institutions as Ball State University, Lamar University, Florida State University and more.

“We are particularly excited about this No. 1 ranking because it highlights how the criminal justice program at WT can stand with the best programs,” said Dr. Brandon Bang, assistant professor and program director. “There are a number of highly regarded and respectable programs on this list, including my alma mater Washington State University.

“We are proud to serve the Panhandle and the entire state of Texas with a top-notch social science education at an affordable price, especially in these tough economic times. This is a combination that is tough to beat,” Bang said.

Best College Reviews considered U.S. News & World Report recognition as well as the cost of tuition in making its list.

WT topped the list because of its affordable tuition and its No. 10 ranking for all online bachelor’s degrees by U.S. News & World Report.

“Either (bachelor’s) track prepares students for dynamic careers as state troopers, fire investigators, probation officers, police officers, court administrators or special agents,” Best College Reviews wrote. “(WT) combines real-world applications and a rigorous curriculum with experienced and top-notch faculty to prepare students to make a difference in the criminal justice system.”

Such rankings are important because it demonstrates the University’s commitment to developing tomorrow’s leaders in criminal justice, said Dr. Eddie Henderson, dean of WT’s College of Education and Social Sciences.

“We are proud of our faculty for its hard work in earning WT this significant recognition,” Henderson said.

Meeting regional needs, including those in criminal justice, and providing affordable and accessible education are key goals of the University’s long-range plan, WT 125: From the Panhandle to the World. That plan is fueled by the historic, $125 million One West comprehensive fundraising campaign.

About West Texas A&M University

WT is located in Canyon, Texas, on a 342-acre residential campus. Established in 1910, the University has been part of The Texas A&M University System since 1990. WT, a Hispanic Serving Institution since 2016, boasts an enrollment of about 10,000 and offers 60 undergraduate degree programs, 40 master’s degrees and two doctoral degrees. The University is also home to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum, the largest history museum in the state and the home of one of the Southwest’s finest art collections. The Buffaloes are a member of the NCAA Division II Lone Star Conference and offers 14 men’s and women’s athletics programs.

—WTAMU—