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Online Criminal Justice Degree Accredited Bachelor’s Programs
Program Overview Why get a criminal justice degree?
Criminal justice is an ever-evolving field that requires qualified professionals who have both a deep understanding of our legal system and adept interpersonal skills.
At Southern New Hampshire University, you can earn a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with real-world perspective. Expanding the boundaries of a traditional criminal justice program, you’ll be exposed to national and global trends, criminology theories and effective communication strategies.
Skills you'll learn:
- Community relations and partnerships
- Communication with diverse audiences
- Laws, regulations and ethical standards
- Research-based solutions to complex problems
- Human motivation and behavior
- The impact of tech on criminal justice agencies
Courses & Curriculum Criminal justice courses that keep ethics at the forefront
Throughout the courses in this online criminal justice degree program, you'll gain the practical, hands-on experience that can help you pave your way in the field. And many of the faculty you'll learn from have experience with major law enforcement agencies like the FBI, FEMA, Homeland Security and large police departments across the country.
Online criminal justice degree concentrations
Choose the general track or add one of 8 specializations to your bachelor’s degree.
Corrections
In Southern New Hampshire University's online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Corrections, you'll explore evidence-based programs and practices for rehabilitating offenders in correctional institutions and in the community.
The program addresses the services provided in corrections, including community-based supervision and the social factors that lead to incarceration. Through simulated scenarios, you'll encounter actual challenges and solve them with the guidance of your instructors.
Career outlook:
While the U.S. prison system continues to need correctional officers, additional job opportunities may present themselves in community-based programs that rehabilitate prisoners and limit their risk of repeated offenses.
A bachelor's degree is often required for roles in this field. SNHU's online degree in criminal justice and corrections can help prepare you for a variety of roles within the corrections, probation and parole system. These jobs include:
- Correctional administrator
- Correctional case manager
- Correctional officer
- Correctional treatment specialist
- Parole officer
- Probation officer
- Public safety officer
In the field, most probation officers and correctional treatment specialists work either in state or local government – excluding education and hospitals – with a smaller amount working in social assistance.1
In addition, probation officers and correctional treatment specialists can feel personal satisfaction from counseling members of their community and helping them become productive citizens.
Law enforcement positions may involve additional training and eligibility requirements.
Courses may include:
- Community-Based Corrections
- Corrections in the United States
- Offender Rehabilitation
- Correctional Administration
Criminology & Crime Analysis
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Criminology & Crime Analysis allows you to apply criminological theory to develop crime reduction and prevention strategies.
Examine the important roles that criminologists and crime analysts play in the development of data-based, proactive policing methods and crime prevention policies with this online criminology degree concentration.
Courses may include:
- Criminology & Public Policy
- Prevention of Crime
- Data-Based Policing Strategies
- Crime Analysis and Solutions
Cybercrime
In a society that's become dependent upon technology, cybercrime is now a growing threat to individuals, corporations and governments.
Armed with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Cybercrime, you'll have the knowledge and skills you need to combat tech-based criminal activity, from email hacking and identity theft to child exploitation and cyberbullying.
Career Outlook:
If you aim to pursue or advance a career in law enforcement, a cybercrime degree offers a critical skillset that can help you shine in the eyes of employers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, police and detective roles could see over 23,000 new positions added through 2032.1
As a graduate of this program, you'll gain the skills you need to analyze and investigate cybercriminal offenses. You'll have the foundational qualifications you need to pursue a number of occupations, including:
- Computer forensic examiner
- Cybercrime investigator
- Cyber forensic analyst
- Cybercrime operational risk specialist
- Detective or criminal investigator
- Federal agent
- Information security analyst
- Private investigator
This cybercrime concentration also stands out for its heavy emphasis on practical application – giving you the experience you need to back up the knowledge you gain throughout the program.
Courses may include:
- Cybercrime Principles
- Cybercrime Targets: Organizations
- Cybercrime Targets: Individuals
- Cybercrime Investigations
Homeland Security & Counterterrorism
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security & Counterterrorism offers a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the threat of terrorism.
Examine the history of terrorism, how terrorist groups succeed and fail and responses to domestic and international terrorist campaigns with this online homeland security degree concentration.
Courses may include:
- Intelligence and Counterintelligence
- Terrorism in the United States
- Security Management
Human Services & Advocacy
With your Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Human Services & Advocacy, you'll examine public policy, child welfare and support services that can help families navigate the system – including community medical and mental health providers, nonprofit organizations, family courts and human services departments.
The need for social and community service managers continues to grow. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 9% growth for these positions through 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.1
Courses may include:
- Public Policy and Advocacy
- Family and Community Systems
- Ethics and Laws in Child Welfare
Students seeking to become a human services professional may also be interested in the online human services degree program. The degree has several concentrations that allow you to specialize your skill set even further.
Police Administration & Operations
This Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Police Administration and Operations helps students understand the demands, functions and goals of modern police agencies.
You'll dive into topics like deployment of patrol assets, policy development and crime analysis with this online law enforcement degree concentration, which provides a thorough understanding of the roles police agencies assume throughout the United States.
Courses may include:
- Effective Patrol and Community Policing
- Crisis Intervention for Police
- Leadership/Management in Criminal Justice Organizations
Security Management
From understanding the various types of security and the importance of preparedness to identifying potential threats and maintaining business continuity after a crisis, the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Security Management explores what it takes to protect an organization's employees and assets.
Other topics discussed in this concentration include security partnerships, emerging industry trends, cybersecurity defenses, loss prevention and risk assessment.
Earning your security management degree online can kickstart or advance your career in many industries. Corporations and other private organizations hire security management professionals in areas related to loss prevention, continuity planning, risk assessment and crisis management. Potential roles in security management include:
- Chief security officer (CSO)
- Corporate physical security supervisor
- Corporate security manager
- Internal security manager
- Security operations manager
Courses may include:
- Security Management Principles
- Security Risk Assessment
- Security Crisis Management
- Business Continuity and Resiliency Planning
Substance Abuse
With increasing recognition of the substance abuse crisis in the U.S., the need for highly skilled community workers is on the rise. Through 2032, growth for substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors is projected to grow 18% – much faster than the average of all jobs – according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
The Bachelor of Science (BS) in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Substance Abuse was designed to help you become a voice for justice and a conduit for recovery for people in treatment facilities, outpatient programs and the court system. Graduates of the program are prepared to provide entry-level services to individuals, groups and families in residential addiction treatment facilities, outpatient addiction programs, the drug court system and corrections departments.
According to the BLS, counselors who work with substance abuse, behavioral disorders and mental health typically work for employers1 like:
- Outpatient mental health and substance abuse centers
- Individual and family services
- State, local and private hospitals
- Residential mental health and substance abuse facilities
- Government
The substance abuse program provides students with a strong foundation in the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) 12 core functions of a drug and alcohol counselor, theories of addiction, assessment, diagnosis and treatment of individuals diagnosed with substance use disorder, as well as legal and ethical issues associated with addiction. This program is an important educational first step toward becoming a drug and alcohol counselor.
Courses may include:
- Foundations of Addiction
- Substance Use: From Screening to Consultation
- Pharmacological Factors in Substance Use Treatment
If you have a heart for recovery, you may also be interested in the online Bachelor of Arts in Human Services with a substance abuse degree concentration.
The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Substance Abuse offered by Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) does not directly lead to licensure. It does provide a significant portion of the substance abuse coursework most often recognized as necessary for licensure. Students seeking licensure and/or certification may be required to complete additional coursework and will be required to complete fieldwork as prescribed by each state. Most states also require a passing score on a licensing exam.
The licensure process and educational requirements for drug and alcohol counselors vary from state to state. This program does not directly lead to licensure.
It is the student’s responsibility to contact their state board or agency for additional information regarding the licensure process and educational requirements. If the student moves to another state, the requirements for licensure will likely be different from the state where the student currently resides, and students are responsible for determining the licensure requirements in the state to which they relocate. Southern New Hampshire University does not guarantee that the completion of this program will result in state licensure or certification.
Online criminal justice degree courses
Strengthen your communication skills, critical thinking and cultural awareness – all while exploring the impact of topics such as diversity and emerging technologies on criminal justice – to aid in promoting positive relations and maintaining safety in the communities they serve.
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.
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 Judicial System
Course ID:
CJ 207
Students will examine the structure and function of the United States court system through the lens of both sworn and civilian professionals. Students will focus on the different levels of the federal court system, roles and responsibilities of criminal justice professionals and allied organizations, and common processes and procedures in the United States judicial system.
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.
Technology in Criminal Justice
Course ID:
CJ 305
Students will analyze how technology is leveraged by criminal justice professionals and used as a tool to commit crime. Legal aspects of using technology in the field as well as positive and negative impacts technology has had on the criminal justice field will be discussed.
Contemporary Issues in Criminal Justice
Course ID:
CJ 406
Through the analysis of contemporary issues in criminal justice, students will develop an understanding of the need for sworn and civilian criminal justice professionals to be adaptive, flexible, and reflective. Students will explore issues in law, technology, and communication while also examining the importance of wellness within the field of criminal justice.
Visit the course catalog to view the full BS 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.
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | PC (Windows OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Apple |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps 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.
- Note: 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. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: 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.
Extra Credit
Get credit for law enforcement training
If you've completed a basic police, corrections or probation and parole academy training, you may be able to receive up to 12 credits toward your criminal justice degree at SNHU.
With at least 400 hours of instruction, you could receive credit toward:
- CJ-112 Introduction to Criminal Justice
- CJ-140 Communication Skills for Criminal Justice
- CJ-207 The United States Judicial System
- CJ-205 Policing in the United States OR CJ-210 The United States Correctional System
Bonus Certificate
A certificate within your degree program
Critical thinking and communication are crucial for success in the field, and it's why this program includes courses that make up an embedded criminal justice communication certificate – a bonus if you want to move up the ranks.
When you've earned the certificate, you can add it to your resume while you finish your bachelor's program – giving you a leg up on your resume. It shows that you've learned the tools to write and speak effectively in situations where every detail matters.
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: June 30, 2025 | September 1, 2025
Next term starts:
May 5, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
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.
Instructors with field experience committed to your success
At SNHU, you'll benefit from criminal justice faculty who have experience working for major law enforcement agencies.
Faculty Profile
Dr. Tharinia Oyegun
With more than 20 years of experience, Dr. Tharinia Oyegun has held a variety of roles in the criminal justice and forensic science field. From questioned documents examination to juvenile probation, transportation security and work in the coroner's office, Oyegun shares her invaluable array of industry experience in her work at SNHU.
Position
Associate Dean, Criminal Justice and Human Services
Joined SNHU
2021
Education
- PhD in Human Services with an emphasis in criminal justice from Capella University
- Master of Forensic Sciences from National University
- BA in Criminal Justice from California State University, San Bernardino
Read more about Dr. Tharinia Oyegun and other online faculty at SNHU.
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 180,000 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 undergraduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$330
$990
$39,600
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$231
$693
$27,720
*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:
$9,900 $14,850 $19,800 $24,750 $29,700If 30 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $29,700
If 45 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $24,750
If 60 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $19,800
If 75 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $14,850
If 90 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $9,900
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 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 90 credits toward your bachelor's 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 a 30% online undergraduate tuition discount 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
Receive an online tuition discount if your organization has partnered with SNHU for educational benefits. See if your organization partners with us.
Career Outlook What can I do with an online criminal justice degree?
There are many avenues you can pursue with a degree in criminal justice — from law enforcement and security to advocacy, law and government. With 8 concentrations to choose from, our bachelor's in criminal justice was designed to help you gain foundational knowledge and skills while also giving you the ability to tailor your program to your career goals.
Law enforcement positions may involve additional training and eligibility requirements. Some students also choose to gain more knowledge through an online master's in criminal justice: SNHU offers the general track, as well as 2 concentrations – advanced terrorism and public safety administration – for more specialized graduate study.
Occupations
Whether you’re looking to start a career in criminal justice or advance in your current role, earning your online criminal justice degree opens doors to positions in a variety of areas:
Advocacy and Law
Victim advocates help victims navigate the criminal justice system and connect them with the support services they need.
Corrections
Within the correctional system, there are many careers, including probation and parole officers, corrections officers and case managers.
Law Enforcement
Positions in law enforcement, for both sworn officers and civilian employees, exist at all levels of government: federal, state and local.
Security
Security management professionals focus on protecting businesses from threats to people, property and assets.
64,500
Yearly average police and detective role openings through 2032, projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
$74,910
Median annual pay for police and detectives as of May 2023, according to BLS.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
I was a travel manager for 30 years but decided to change my career to help local people in Hawaii live better lives. My degree in criminal justice will help me do that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you get a criminal justice degree online?
Yes. A bachelor's degree in criminal justice can be earned online the same way you would get a degree at a brick-and-mortar school: through classes and assignments, interactions with your classmates and discussions with your instructor.
Getting an online criminal justice degree is especially ideal for those who are already working in the field. Many people in the industry don't work a standard 9-to-5 schedule, meaning a traditional, set class time on campus isn't the most convenient. By having access to a classroom that's open 24/7, you can do your classwork when it's most convenient for you.
"I chose SNHU because I was looking for a program where I could continue working full-time while working towards my degree," said Kaitlin Roach '21, a graduate of the online criminal justice program. "I wanted to be considered a full-time student and the schedule with SNHU worked with my work schedule."
Thousands of students have graduated with SNHU's online criminal justice bachelor's degrees, and many continue on to earn their master's degree online.
What is the best online college for criminal justice?
The best place to earn your online bachelor's degree in criminal justice depends on what you are looking to get out of your program, as well as what your career goals are.
SNHU may be the right online college for you. Here are some unique features of our online program:
- An emphasis on cultural literacy, problem-solving and decision making, as well as exposure to new technologies in criminal justice and developing research skills
- A criminal justice communication certificate that’s embedded in your online program
- Field authentic learning experiences
- Prior learning assessment opportunities for police academy and corrections academy training, saving you time and money
- Faculty members who bring experiences from law enforcement agencies ranging from big city departments – like Houston and New York – to federal agencies – like the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security
How long does it take to get a criminal justice degree online?
The time it takes you to earn your 120-credit bachelor's degree in criminal justice completely depends on how many credits you start your program with.
If you begin the online program with no credits – and you enroll full-time – it would take you around 4 years to graduate. At SNHU, being a full-time online student means taking 2 classes per 8-week term. And there are 6 terms each year.
Most students who begin an online program here are transferring in any number of credits – from a handful of courses up to the maximum 90 credits that the university accepts. Transferring credits can significantly reduce the number of courses you need to take – helping you get across that finish line quicker.
For Kaitlin Roach '21, transfer credits made a big difference to her timeline. "Not only did I graduate, I graduated with honors and did so in less than four years," she said.
You may be able to earn credit for your criminal justice degree from your law enforcement training – from basic police, corrections, or probation and parole academies. With at least 400 hours of instruction, you could receive up to 12 credits toward the following courses:
- CJ-112 Introduction to Criminal Justice
- CJ-140 Communication Skills for Criminal Justice
- CJ-207 The United States Judicial System
- CJ-205 Policing in the United States OR CJ-210 The United States Correctional System
What job can I get with a criminal justice degree?
There are a wide range of careers in the criminal justice field. Depending on your background, interests and qualifications, you may find some positions to be a better fit.
Law enforcement agencies may have specific requirements for sworn officers such as age, fitness or education. But there are also many positions in the criminal justice system for civilians, including those for crime analysts, victim advocates and private investigators.
Likewise, SNHU's online bachelor's in criminal justice offers a wide range of concentrations to match your interests:
- Corrections
- Criminology & Crime Analysis
- Cybercrime
- Homeland Security & Counterterrorism
- Human Services & Advocacy
- Police Administration & Operations
- Security Management
- Substance Abuse
Will a criminal justice degree help me become a cop?
Getting a bachelor's in criminal justice won't solely earn you a uniformed position – but it can be a big advantage in your career.
To become a police officer, you typically have to graduate from the police academy and pass the law enforcement entrance exam – though requirements can vary by department.
A bachelor's degree can give you a leg up on gaining entry-level jobs. It also can help you if you're interested in climbing the law-enforcement ladder as your career progresses.
In addition, the curriculum here complements academy training, which is often focused on tactics and procedure. Our bachelor's in criminal justice teaches critical thinking and working with diverse populations – as well as communication skills, which is why SNHU's program includes an embedded communication certificate.
What's the difference between criminal justice and criminology?
Criminal justice refers to the system of law enforcement, courts and corrections, while criminology tackles the academic and research side of the field.
Those who study criminal justice more often are on the front line, dealing with criminals and unlawful behavior. Those in the field aim to both prevent criminal activity and punish criminal acts.
Students pursuing a criminology path may be more interested in profiling, data collection, analysis, psychology and environmental factors. Criminologists study crime and the who, why and how behind the criminals.
At SNHU, you can earn your bachelor's in criminal justice, but you can add a concentration in criminology.
What can you do with a cybercrime degree?
"A cybercrime degree can help with the foundational understanding of emerging technologies and bridge the gap that law enforcement has in this ever-changing field," said Tim Craig, a cybercrime SME and adjunct professor at SNHU.
As a graduate of the program, you'll have the foundational qualifications you need to pursue a number of occupations, including:
- Computer forensic examiner
- Cybercrime investigator
- Cyber forensic analyst
- Cybercrime operational risk specialist
- Detective or criminal investigator
- Federal agent
- Information security analyst
- Private investigator
How do I get a job in cybercrime?
Like many professions, employers often look for candidates who have the education, knowledge and demonstrable skills they need to succeed in their field.
"Most careers require a certain level of experience, but what makes the SNHU Cybercrime degree program unique is that there is real-world experience injected into the curriculum week by week," said Jason Compton, a cybercrime subject-matter expert and adjunct professor at SNHU. "Students will have the exposure and knowledge needed to shine in a pool of professional candidates."
With practical application at its core, our cutting-edge program will help give you an operational understanding of how to investigate cybercrimes, collect evidence and understand relevant laws on the local, state and federal levels.
"This places the student into an advantageous position in future career aspirations, as they will have a deep knowledge base which will enable them to excel in many applicable professions," Compton said. "Cybercrime changes and advances at the speed of evolving technology, so students will finish the program with advanced and current knowledge to apply to real-word careers immediately upon graduating."
What are the most common cybercrimes?
"Cybercrime is frequently associated with the term 'hacker,' but cybercrime is much more in depth than just that," said Jason Compton, an adjunct professor at SNHU. As he points out, there are hundreds of types of cybercrime. Of those identified, the most frequently observed examples are:
- Email compromise – Business and personal e-mails open the door to gaining access to many different accounts that could cause much more severe harm.
- Identity theft – Your identity is sacred. The impacts of your identity being compromised can be severe.
- Ransomware – As the name suggests, this is malicious software that locks down your sensitive files and holds them “hostage” until you pay a fee or “ransom” to have them unlocked.
- Spoofing and phishing – One of the more common methods of gaining sensitive information or enabling an adversary to compromise your account(s).
- Online predators – One of the most severe issues faced today. Exploitation of youth online is extremely prevalent.
What is the difference between cybercrime and cybersecurity?
While often mistaken as interchangeable terms, there are, in fact, key differences between cybercrime and cybersecurity.
"Cybercrime is a situation where an actual individual and/or their property is targeted by an adversary," said Jason Compton, an adjunct professor at SNHU. "Cybersecurity involves incidents where a larger business or corporation is targeted with the intent to compromise their network by various different methods of attack."
While there may be crossover between the two – and both can qualify as criminal offenses – it's "the act itself and the actions in response to the act that truly separate cybercrime from cybersecurity," Compton said.
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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/probation-officers-and-correctional-treatment-specialists.htm (viewed April 18, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/police-and-detectives.htm (viewed April 18, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/social-and-community-service-managers.htm (viewed April 18, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/substance-abuse-behavioral-disorder-and-mental-health-counselors.htm (viewed April 18, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.