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Online Criminal Justice Associate Degree Accredited Associate of Science (AS) Program
Program Overview Why get a criminal justice degree?
Uncover the many career paths of criminal justice with an Associate of Science (AS) in Criminal Justice from Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). Created from a real-world perspective, this program explores ideas, theories and practices related to the American judicial system. It caters to those who'd like to land an entry-level position in the field and experienced criminology professionals who want to upgrade their skill set.
Skills you'll learn:
- Communication tactics
- Decision-making techniques
- Cultural awareness
- Research literacy
- Statistical analysis
- Laws, regulations and ethical standards
Courses & Curriculum Career-focused online criminal justice classes
This program's curriculum is primarily split between complementary general education and major-specific classes. Should you choose to continue your education, these class credits can be transferred into our Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice online degree program.
Online criminal justice associate degree courses
You'll have an array of courses to choose from, so you can gain a thorough understanding of the American justice system, criminal law, social science and more.
Courses may include
Introduction to Criminal Justice
Course ID:
CJ 112
In this introduction to the criminal justice program students will begin to understand the major components within various professions at the state, local and federal levels and how they are interconnected. Communication skills, career prospects, and an overview of the core components of the United States government will be reviewed to provide students with a holistic view of sworn and civilian roles within the criminal justice system.
Communication Skills for Criminal Justice
Course ID:
CJ 140
Students will develop an understanding of various types of written, verbal, and nonverbal communication used within the criminal justice profession. Report writing, identification of the proper type of communication for various situations, and interviewing techniques will be practiced.
Policing in the United States
Course ID:
CJ 205
Students will explore the historical evolution of policing to better understand its current structure and function within criminal justice. The value of positive community relationships and partnerships will be covered, as well as how sworn and civilian positions work together to maintain public safety. Various types of communication such as internal reports and documentation will be practiced.
The United States Correctional System
Course ID:
CJ 210
Students will examine the function of corrections in the United States criminal justice system to develop an understanding of the structure, function, and relationships with allied professions. Systemic issues impacting incarceration, ideologies of punishment that influence sentencing, and the role of public policy in corrections will be analyzed.
Discretion in Criminal Justice
Course ID:
CJ 230
The significance of discretion in decision-making within criminal justice, including the latitude provided by laws and policies that govern its use, will be analyzed. In addition, students will study how to exercise discretion in accordance with professional requirements such as documentation, objectivity, and equality.
Research Literacy in Social Sciences
Course ID:
SCS 285
Students will analyze the value of using various kinds of data and credible existing research to address professional problems. Essential research skills and strategies such as research question development, evaluating data sets for practical application, and applications of social science research methods will be covered, enabling students to become effective consumers of research.
Visit the course catalog to view the full AS in Criminal Justice curriculum.
The Commons: SNHU's gen ed program
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Courses may include:
Cultural Awareness and Online Learning
Course ID:
IDS 105
This course introduces students to the skills relevant to university learning, and the foundational knowledge and values of intercultural fluency needed to understand and effectively navigate the complexities of contemporary society. Students will examine the various factors that influence an individual's perception of justice and the impacts that cultural and social diversity have on collaboration and communication processes. Through the application of interpersonal communication strategies, students will also learn to navigate various interpersonal conflict situations.
Self, Society, and the Humanities
Course ID:
HUM 102
In this course, students explore the interaction between individuals and society as a framework for understanding cultural inquiry. Through the examination of the scientific, creative, cultural, and historical humanities, students develop a practice of reflexivity to describe conceptions of self, others, and systems and their interconnectedness.
Foundations of Written Communication
Course ID:
ENG 130
This course focuses on written communication and writing practice. Students will gain the critical reading and information literacy related skills vital to academic and workplace success. Students will explore methods to analyze, summarize, and evaluate written works to isolate key ideas and information. Students will examine how to adapt the writing process to a variety of writing situations and present their own perspectives in written form.
Mathematical Reasoning for Modern Problem-Solving
Course ID:
MAT 126
In this course, students learn about the use of mathematical reasoning and the practical application of quantitative techniques to inform their decision-making process. Students will develop the skills to critically examine elements of a problem they might face in their day-to-day personal and professional lives, solve for various outcomes using quantitative techniques, and make informed decisions.
Ethics in Global Society
Course ID:
PHL 218
In this course, students explore various ethical frameworks from a cultural and global perspective. Students examine the ways that ethics influence actions, decisions, and perceptions. Furthermore, students develop associated skills related to critical thinking, such as awareness of bias, to analyze issues from an ethical standpoint.
STEM Principles and Problem-Solving
Course ID:
SCI 260
In this course, students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) methodologies to a wide variety of contemporary issues and complex challenges within society to obtain knowledge and use that knowledge to develop recommendations and propose solutions. Students will leverage a scientific mindset to gather information, analyze data, and communicate information in varying ways based on their intended audience.
Social Issues and Decision-Making
Course ID:
SCS 260
In this course, students use social science methodologies to analyze various sociocultural issues and their impacts on society. In their exploration of the concept of society and how it manifests in different cultures, students learn to contextualize themselves within society, examine the relationship between the individual and society, and analyze the ethical implications of decision-making related to contemporary social issues.
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: October 27, 2025 | January 5, 2026
Next term starts:
September 1, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Learn From Instructors With Industry Experience
Our faculty carry with them decades of experience in criminology. By bringing real-world insights to the classroom, they can help position graduates for success in a field that's always changing.
Autumn Schmidt
Autumn Schmidt began her career in law enforcement at the age of 20 as a court security and transport deputy. She then transitioned to the role of patrol officer, during which she was a member of both her police department's honor guard team and Maine's first federal human trafficking task force. Outside of her work at SNHU, Schmidt acts as a community officer, professional career coach for women in law enforcement and business owner of She's An Asset — a women's situational awareness training and self-protection company. She holds certifications in police academy instruction and defense tactics.
Position
Adjunct Faculty, Social Sciences
Joined SNHU
2019
Education
- MS in Criminal Justice from Southern New Hampshire University
- BS in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Thomas College
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report
Named SNHU the 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online associate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 60-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$342
$1,026
$20,520
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$250
$750
$15,000
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$4,104 $8,208 $12,312 $15,390If 12 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your associate degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $16,416
If 24 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your associate degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $12,312
If 36 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your associate degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $8,208
If 45 of your prior learning credits ($342/credit) are accepted toward your associate degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $5,130
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for an associate degree. Most associate degrees require 60 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 45 credits, requiring a minimum of 15 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer up to 45 credits toward your associate degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of tuition discounts for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook What can I do with an online criminal justice associate degree?
The associate degree in criminal justice was designed to help prepare you for entry-level jobs in many fields, including business security, corrections, court administration, dispute resolution, law enforcement and victim advocacy.
Occupations
With this degree in hand, you can pursue a number of positions. However, it's important to note that law enforcement roles may involve additional training and eligibility requirements.
Social and Human Service Assistants
Provide client services (including support for families) in a wide variety of fields, such as psychology, rehabilitation and social work.
Correctional Officers and Bailiffs
Guard people in penal institutions, as well as those in transit between jails, courtrooms, prisons or other points.
EMTs and Paramedics
Assess injuries and illnesses, provide emergency medical care and transport patients to medical facilities.
Fire Inspectors
Detect fire hazards, recommend prevention measures, ensure compliance with fire codes and investigate causes of fires.
Private Detectives and Investigators
Search for information about legal, financial and personal matters, in addition to offering services like background checks.
Security Guards
Stay alert (watching for anything unusual) to protect property against theft, vandalism and other illegal activity.
9%
Increase nationally in roles for social and human service assistants through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
My degree has made my son realize the importance of education and has motivated him to want to go to college.
Joseph Medina '17 '19
Criminal Justice (AS)
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers about the online criminal justice degree
What type of associate degree is criminal justice?
An associate degree in criminal justice provides a strong foundation in theories and practices related to the American criminal justice system, criminal law, social science and more. It’s a valuable program of study, whether you’re just breaking into the field or enhancing your professional skill set.
Sal Villa '19 pursued his AS in Criminal Justice online at Southern New Hampshire University after 14 years in the military and realized immediate career benefits. He improved his writing skills, and it showed in the quality of his reports and briefs.
Is an associate degree in criminal justice worth it?
It depends on how you define “worth it.” If you’re looking to advance your career, an associate degree in criminal justice can definitely help you get there. Some students who’ve been passed up for promotions find the academic credential not only looks good on their resumes, but opens more doors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, associate degree holders earn about 35% more than those with only a high school degree.1
In addition, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects more than 409,500 new jobs in protective service occupations through 2032, with a 2023 median annual wage of $47,760.1 Police officers and detectives occupy the high end of the salary range, with 2023 median annual incomes of $74,910.1
If you hold a criminal justice degree, you have many career paths to consider, including law enforcement, corrections, forensics, homeland security and private security.
This degree also speaks well to military members looking to advance their current career or enter a new field (like law enforcement) post-service.
How many credits do you need for an associate degree in criminal justice?
Most accredited universities require a total of 60 credits to award an associate degree in criminal justice. Southern New Hampshire University’s online program requirements include 24 general education credits (with coursework in English, mathematics, the humanities and the sciences) and 24 major courses. The remaining 12 credits are free electives.
Full-time students can typically complete the program in 2 years. Part-time students, many of whom work full time, are encouraged to work at their own pace. Once you've earned your associate degree, you can seamlessly start work on the remaining 60 credits for your bachelor's degree.
Can I turn my associate degree into a bachelor's?
An associate degree is a great option if you’re on the fence about pursuing your bachelor’s. Some students use their associate as a stepping stone to earn general education credits they can put toward a bachelor’s.
At Southern New Hampshire University, for example, associate degree holders can seamlessly apply their degree toward earning the remaining 60 credits of the 120-credit bachelor's program. Candidates for both the AS and BS in Criminal Justice can also apply up to 12 credits for law enforcement training.
That alone is a major consideration for anyone looking to build on their work experience – and a top reason many students go on to pursue their bachelor’s. There’s also the practical career aspect: With a bachelor’s in criminal justice, you’ll not only deepen your understanding of the many facets and functions of the criminal justice field. You’ll gain access to a vast network of faculty and peers who are already working in the industry.
How much does an associate degree in criminal justice cost?
The short answer? It depends.
A few factors to consider:
- Cost per credit: The price can vary dramatically. Most online criminal justice associate degree programs require 60 to 65 credits, though some schools, using quarter-credits, require up to 90. At $342 per credit hour, tuition for Southern New Hampshire University's (SNHU) 60-credit online Associate of Science in Criminal Justice is among the lowest in the nation.
- Online vs. on-campus: Generally speaking, online programs are more affordable than on-campus programs.
- In-state vs. out-of-state tuition rates: Most public schools charge more for out-of-state tuition. Online programs typically don’t differentiate their rates.
- Transfer policy: SNHU accepts up to 45 transfer credits for an associate degree and up to 12 credits for law enforcement training. This could help you earn your degree faster — and for less money.
How much does a police officer make with an associate degree?
In May 2023, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported a median annual wage of $74,910 for police and detectives, with the highest 10% earning more than $117,100.1 The BLS notes that many entry-level job applicants have taken some college classes and significantly more are college graduates.1
In May 2023, the median annual wages for police and detectives by industry were as follows1:
- Government: $75,570
- Educational services; state, local, and private: $62,590
The BLS also notes that most police and detectives work full time. Paid overtime is common and shift work is often necessary to protect the public at all times.1
In addition to regular wages, many law enforcement agencies provide officers with an allowance for uniforms, as well as considerable benefits and the option to retire at an age that is younger than the average. Some police departments offer additional pay for bilingual officers or those with college degrees, potentially making your criminal justice associate degree that much more valuable.1
Do you have to go to college before the police academy?
Police academies differ depending on the jurisdiction. In many cases, you don’t have to have a college degree before attending the police academy. Aspiring police officers are required to have at least a high school diploma or GED.
Because of this, having a college degree may set you apart from the competition during the hiring process and help you to advance your career faster.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023 median weekly earnings for all full-time workers were almost 18% higher for those who've earned an associate degree over those with just a high school diploma.1
Not only could you see a bump in pay, but the unemployment rate drops for associate degree holders in comparison to high school graduates.1
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Sources & Citations
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/social-and-human-service-assistants.htm (viewed Apr. 1, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/emp/tables/education-and-training-by-occupation.htm (viewed Apr. 1, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/home.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/emp/chart-unemployment-earnings-education.htm (viewed Apr. 19, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.