Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Pursue Your Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree Online or On Campus!Program Overview
As a student in the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program at Post University, you will have the opportunity to develop the foundational knowledge and practical skills within the field of criminal justice. In addition to exploring issues and principles within law enforcement, forensics, corporate security, criminal investigation, courts, and corrections—including probation, parole, and imprisonment—you will have opportunities to hone and develop skills for report writing, fingerprinting, and crime scene investigation and documentation.
Coursework for your criminal justice bachelor’s degree offers a solid foundation of principles and procedural theory as they apply to the current criminal justice landscape—from a deep understanding of crime and criminal activity to the structure of the American criminal justice system. It also explores the nature of criminal law and its roots in common law, as well as analyzing and applying the U.S. Constitution to contemporary issues in criminal justice. Coursework also encourages tracing crime and criminal activity to causation theories and explores categories of crime and penalties, as well as their defenses. This program also offers the ability to customize your degree to your future goals with your choice of concentrations in law enforcement, legal studies, emergency management and homeland security, correctional counseling, and corrections.
Curriculum
Program Requirements – 12 Total Credits
Essential Skills Core: 21 Required Credits
General Education: 21 Required Credits
Major and Concentrations: 60 Required Credits
Open Electives: 18 Required Credits
Industry-Focused Curriculum for Professional Skills
Coursework for your on-campus or online bachelor’s in criminal justice program is designed to help you build the foundation of insights and practical skills necessary to:
- Describe and define the American criminal justice system
- Illustrate how the U.S. Constitution applies to criminal laws and procedures
- Effectively communicate criminal justice principles
- Assess criminal activity causation theories and identify categories of crimes, penalties, and their defenses
- Compare and contrast criminal law foundations to modern-day law
- Demonstrate an understanding of the purpose and function of probation, parole, and imprisonment
- Identify, analyze, and apply research-based techniques to issues facing criminal justice practitioners
Concentrations
Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree Concentrations
In addition to core coursework covering criminal justice, juvenile justice, law, and criminology, you will have the opportunity to customize your degree to your future goals with one of these seven concentrations:
Correctional Counseling
In a combination of disciplines, coursework gives equal focus to criminal justice, sociology, and human services as well as how they integrate with the correctional field.
Corrections
This concentration focuses on the theories, history, functions, and management of correctional institutions and communities along with prisoners’ rights and the impact of these practices on the criminal justice system.
Crime Scene Investigation
This concentration offers a methodical and detailed approach to crime scene investigation, including crime scene processing, identification and collection of physical evidence, and chain of custody. It also offers the opportunity to develop skills for successfully recognizing, documenting, collecting, and preserving physical evidence.
Emergency Management & Homeland Security
Study the four phases of emergency management—mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery—as well as a historical awareness of terrorism, particularly within the United States and its interests abroad. You will also cover ongoing efforts to secure the homeland.
Law Enforcement
This concentration provides an introduction to the core areas of law enforcement, including juvenile justice, police administration and management, and white-collar crime.
Legal Studies
Pursue an understanding of the fundamental principles of law through an analysis of the role and function of the American legal system. It is designed to offer the insights and skills you could use to pursue opportunities in paralegal work.
Interdisciplinary Studies
You have the opportunity to customize your degree by choosing which criminal justice electives meet your future goals.
Sample Courses
Introduction to Criminal Justice
The student will be introduced to the American Criminal Justice System from the perspective of the criminal justice professional. The course examines the historical development and role of the police, prosecution, corrections, probation, parole, and rehabilitation.
Crime, Justice, and American Society
The student is introduced to the intersection between race, ethnicity, and crime in America. The myths and realities of how race and ethnicity relate to and impact various aspects of crime will be addressed. Emphasis will be placed on the criminal justice response from arrest, to pre-trial discussion, sentencing, and through incarceration of an individual. Additional emphasis will be made on case law, and how it impacts minority youth.
Comparative Criminal Justice
This course offers students an in-depth study of global criminal justice systems. Through comparative analysis, students will critically evaluate the United States justice system alongside those of other nations, with a particular focus on components, operational processes, and legal traditions such as common law, civil law, socialist law, and Islamic or Sacred Law. Emphasis is placed on understanding crime rates, various forms of criminal behavior, and the functions of police, courts, and corrections. This course also addresses the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the US justice system.
Theoretical Criminology
This course will review the wide range of theoretical explanations for criminal behavior. Emphasis will be placed on contemporary, biological, psychological, sociological, economic, and integrated theories of behavior.
The sample courses listed are intended to illustrate the types of coursework included in this program. Course offerings and requirements may change. Please consult the official University Catalog for current and complete program information.
Licensing Disclosure
Licensure and Program Disclosures
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree is not designed to fulfill the educational requirements for any professional credential, such as a police officer certification.
Post University assists in researching and providing information regarding licensure; however, each state has different requirements for such licensure outside of the required education. Such state requirements may include licensure exams, background checks, certain work experience, and more. It is ultimately the responsibility of each student to manage their own licensure process and to ensure that all requirements are met in order for the student to obtain licensure. Post University does not speak on behalf of any licensing board or body and does not guarantee licensure. Requirements for licensure are subject to change without notice.
Learn about law enforcement and public safety careers through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: specifically: Police and Detectives, Correctional Officers and Bailiffs, and Emergency Management Directors
“The strength of our program lies in the professional experience of our instructors. Our instructors are either current or former practitioner within their chosen field of expertise. Students will have the opportunity to gain valuable insight from experienced professionals.”
Ready to Apply?
Ready to Apply?The admissions team is available to walk you through each step of the application process and clarify any remaining questions.
Accreditation
Institutional Accreditation
College (University) is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (formerly the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.). Inquiries regarding the accreditation status by the Commission should be directed to the administrative staff of the institution. Individuals may also contact:
New England Commission of Higher Education
301 Edgewater Place, Suite 210, Wakefield, MA 01880
(781) 425 7785
E-Mail: [email protected]
For more information on Post University's state licensure or accreditation, please visit the Accreditation page.
Undergraduate Admissions Requirements
Post University’s undergraduate admissions process is structured to be accessible for students planning to study online or on campus. All applicants must complete an admissions application and demonstrate high school completion or an equivalent credential.
Acceptable documentation includes:
- An official high school transcript showing graduation
- A General Education Development (GED) certificate or equivalent diploma
- A home-school transcript recognized by the student’s state
- An associate degree transcript
- Official college-level credit, typically 60 or more semester hours, that may apply toward a bachelor’s degree
Applicants are encouraged to connect with admissions advisors, including participating in an advisory session or interview, to support their transition into their selected program.
For detailed and format-specific requirements, including documentation and enrollment steps, please visit:
Why Students Choose Post University
“Along the way, what I ended up with was a family. My academic advisor would regularly check in and ask ‘how is class going. Do you need any help?’”
Tuition & Ways to Save
An education at Post University is designed to provide long-term value. Tuition is competitively structured, and financial aid opportunities are available for those who qualify. Admissions and financial aid teams work with you to review available options and explain each step of the process clearly.
With multiple funding opportunities available, you may qualify for more than you expect.
Tuition Reductions →
Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.
Scholarships →
Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.
Financial Aid →
Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.
Transfer Credits →
Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.
Military Benefits →
Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.
Student Loans →
Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.
Tuition Reductions →
Tuition reductions are available for eligible active-duty military service members, veterans, public safety professionals, education partners, alumni, and others who qualify.
Scholarships →
Post University offers a variety of institutional scholarships. Dedicated scholarship advisors assist students in identifying both institutional and relevant external scholarship opportunities.
Financial Aid →
Federal financial aid programs are available for many degree programs for students who qualify.
Transfer Credits →
Post University will evaluate course credit completed at eligible institutions, as well as credit earned through approved examinations or prior learning experiences, for potential transfer.
Military Benefits →
Military education benefits extend to active-duty service members, reservists, veterans, their families, and eligible Department of Defense civilian employees.
Student Loans →
Federal and private loan programs may be available to students who qualify.
Ready to take the next steps?
Admissions advisors are available to answer your questions, explain the application process, and help you explore which program aligns with your interests and experience.
If you are considering Post University, we invite you to begin the conversation.
Why Post University?
At Post University, you are not an anonymous face in a crowded lecture hall. You are known and supported from your first conversation through program completion. That is the meaning behind Post Makes It Personal®.
Our approach is grounded in three commitments: career focus, value, and personalization. Whether you are beginning your undergraduate journey, returning to continue your education, or pursuing a graduate degree, Post University offers programs developed with professional practice in mind, led by industry-experienced faculty, and delivered in formats designed to fit into your life.
Post people come from many different backgrounds and life stages. Some are stepping onto campus for the first time, while others are learning online while balancing work, family, military service, or community commitments. Across every format, students are part of a community built on connection, structure, and shared purpose.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Could I Do With a Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree?
Upon completing the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Post University, you will have had the opportunity to investigate the mechanics of law enforcement, including the roles and functions of municipal police, the county sheriff, local agencies, state and federal law enforcement, the public and private security industry, as well as the purpose and function of probation, parole, and law enforcement.
What Do You Learn in Criminal Justice?
In the criminal justice degree program at Post, students have the opportunity to learn about the American criminal justice system, including its structure, functions, and processes. They study topics such as criminal law and procedure, criminology, juvenile justice, law enforcement principles, forensic science, correctional practices, and professional ethics. Coursework may also cover subjects including crime scene investigation, homeland security, and emergency management. Through this course of study, students can develop skills in leadership, constitutional principles, crime causation, and effective communication.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Criminal Justice Degree?
The length of a criminal justice degree program can vary depending on factors such as the level of the degree (e.g., associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s), the institution offering the program, and whether the student is attending full-time or part-time. Generally, an associate’s degree in criminal justice typically takes about two years to complete, while a bachelor’s degree typically takes around four years.
Can You Earn a Criminal Justice Bachelor’s Degree Online?
Yes, you can pursue a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice online. Post University offers the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program in a fully online format, allowing students to study remotely and at their own pace. Online students receive the same education, access to resources, and support from faculty as their on-campus counterparts, making it a convenient option for working professionals or those with other commitments.
Can You Become a Lawyer With a Criminal Justice Degree?
While a criminal justice degree can provide a solid foundation for understanding legal principles and procedures, it typically does not fulfill the educational requirements for admission to law school. Most law schools require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in any field, along with a competitive GPA and LSAT (Law School Admission Test) scores. However, individuals with a criminal justice degree can certainly pursue law school by meeting the admission requirements of the law schools they wish to attend.
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