Central Wyoming College Criminal Justice Student Gains Real-World Experience with Riverton Police Department

Riverton, Wyo. — Central Wyoming College (CWC) Criminal Justice student Sean Smith recently gained valuable hands-on experience through a ride-along with the Riverton Police Department, shadowing Sergeant Stephen Sullivan. The experience offered Smith an up-close look at how classroom lessons translate into real-world policing.

“It was incredible to see how officers respond in real time and how quickly they have to think through every decision,” said Smith. “It really connected what we’ve been studying in class to what happens on the streets.”

Connecting Classroom Learning to Real-World Policing

Central Wyoming College’s Criminal Justice Associate of Arts program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the criminal justice system—from law enforcement and courts to corrections. The interdisciplinary program explores the theories of criminal behavior, legal procedures, and the laws that guide investigations and prosecutions.

Graduates are well-prepared for careers in policing, corrections, probation, family services, and victim advocacy, or for continued academic study in the field.

CWC Instructor of Criminal Justice Andrew Hanson underscores the value of practical experience.

“The classroom gives students the theory, but experiences like Sean’s ride-along bring that theory to life,” Hanson said. “It helps them understand the complexity of policing and reinforces the importance of communication, ethics, and decision-making in the field.”

After completing his studies at CWC this spring, Smith plans to transfer to the University of Wyoming to continue his education in criminal justice. He says his time at CWC—and experiences like his ride-along—have strengthened his commitment to serving his community.

“It’s one thing to study procedures and case law, but seeing it all in action made me even more excited to pursue a career in this field,” Smith said.

Rocky Mountain Justice Academy: Integrated Justice Education

Central Wyoming College’s Rocky Mountain Justice Academy (RMJA) is a cornerstone of its Criminal Justice degree programs, offering both Associate of Arts (AA) and Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degrees with law enforcement options. Instruction is provided by practicing attorneys, police officers, and retired law enforcement professionals.

The Rocky Mountain Justice Academy provides advanced training in various firearms techniques via scenario based training and use-of-force decision-making, ensuring students gain both academic knowledge and hands-on experience essential for success in criminal justice careers or further study.

Learn more about CWC’s Criminal Justice and Justice Academy programs at cwc.edu/criminaljustice.