The Growth of Grace Christian University’s Criminal Justice Program
“Much of the program’s success can be attributed to Grace Christian University’s commitment to affordability and the diverse array of opportunities that a BS in Criminal Justice opens up. However, another driving force behind the program’s success is the wisdom and connections that Dr. Shaw and Dr. Greydanus have brought to the table.”
Criminal Justice Program at Grace Christian University
One of the most transformative and engaging aspects of my academic journey was being part of the Criminal Justice program led by Dr. Dave Greydanus at Grace Christian University.
I was fortunate to be among the first cohort of students pursuing Criminal Justice degrees at Grace. It truly felt like getting in on the ground floor of something incredible.
As I progressed through the program, I had the privilege of witnessing its growth under the guidance of Dr. Greydanus and Dr. Scott Shaw. These professors transformed the program into a powerhouse that now rivals those of any other college in the state.
Now, two years after my graduation, I’m thrilled to see that this program has continued to thrive and exceed even my greatest expectations.
Much of the program’s success comes from Grace Christian University’s commitment to affordability. It also reflects the wide range of opportunities a BS in Criminal Justice creates.
Another driving force behind the program’s success is the wisdom, experience, and connections that Dr. Shaw and Dr. Greydanus have brought to the program.
The Heart of the Program: The Professors
Both Dr. Shaw and Dr. Greydanus boast impressive backgrounds as former police officers. Dr. Greydanus additionally served as a lawyer for the Michigan State Police both during and after his time with the agency.
Together, they have cultivated a network of contacts throughout the law enforcement community. Those connections are eager to assist students in gaining valuable real-world experience.
A testament to this commitment occurred just a few weeks ago at the Sparta Police Department.
More than 20 students embarked on a field trip to Sparta, Michigan, for their Law Enforcement and Corrections class. Dr. Greydanus and Dr. Shaw led the field trip.
The goal was simple. Students gained a better understand the role of local police departments, the importance of serving the community, and the responsibilities that come with positions of trust in the criminal justice system.
Trip To Sparta’s Police Station
 
This visit meant a great deal to the students who attended, just as similar trips meant a great deal to me.
It’s one thing to sit in a classroom and learn about what police officers do. It’s another to learn directly from the people who live it out every day.
Another special aspect of this trip was having Sergeant David Price speak to the group. Sgt. Price was an adjunct Criminal Justice professor at Grace for many years. He is very open about how much his faith means to him in this line of work.
The trip to the Sparta Police Department served as a direct bridge between the world of academics and the real world.
It allowed students to witness the inner workings of a police department. They were able to ask questions and engage in conversations with officers and other law enforcement officials. These interactions offered a firsthand look at the world of local policing and the responsibilities associated with these roles.
This experience had an lasting impact on these future law enforcement and corrections professionals. It was an excellent stepping stone toward understanding the realities of their chosen career paths.
Field trips such as this one are what ignited my passion for Criminal Justice. I have no doubt they are doing the same for current Criminal Justice students here at Grace.
Learn More
Thinking about pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice?
Learn more about our growing On-Campus Criminal Justice Program and what it can offer you.
