Pathway agreement provides JWCC students with a streamlined academic path to a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement.
John Wood Community College (JWCC) and Western Illinois University (WIU) signed an agreement today, establishing a transfer pathway for students pursuing a degree in criminal justice/law enforcement. Signing the agreement were JWCC President Dr. Bryan Renfro and WIU Interim President Dr. Kristi Mindrup.
This agreement maps out a clear academic pathway from JWCC’s associate degree in criminal justice to a bachelor’s degree in law enforcement at WIU, ensuring that students can transfer efficiently with credits that align directly with their academic goals at WIU. As an articulation pathway, rather than a strict “2+2” program, the agreement offers JWCC students flexibility in achieving their degree goals, with a recommended plan but without a rigid timeline. This flexibility acknowledges the diverse educational journeys that transfer students often experience and provides guidance for degree completion in the most efficient manner possible.
JWCC President Dr. Bryan Renfro stated, “Our goal at John Wood Community College is to help students find their career path and complete their degrees with efficiency in both time and cost. We’re excited to expand our partnership with Western Illinois University, especially for our criminal justice students who are committed to serving the public through various career pathways.”
Kristi Mindrup, WIU Interim President, added, “The WIU Law Enforcement and Justice Administration program is an excellent step for students pursuing high-demand roles in the field. This agreement creates a seamless transfer experience from JWCC to WIU, preparing graduates to meet workforce needs regionally and beyond.”
More information about JWCC’s Criminal Justice program can be found at: https://www.jwcc.edu/programs/emergency-services/criminal-justice/
