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Criminal Justice, BS (Online)

The online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program allows working professionals to stay on the job while preparing for careers or advancement in a variety of jobs including law enforcement agencies and security personnel.

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Program Intro

Career rewards beyond measure — protect and serve. The online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program allows working professionals to stay on the job while preparing for careers or advancement in a variety of jobs including law enforcement agencies and security personnel.

48 Units

*45-48 units

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16 Months to Completion

*Based on a full-time course load and prior completion of general education and elective requirements

$520 +fees Cost Per Unit

*Based on current academic year. Subject to change.

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Why Earn Your BS in Criminal Justice (Online) at CBU?

Learn from professors in the field

Criminal justice classes are taught by experienced faculty, including many active and retired members of law enforcement, who impart practical knowledge that can be immediately applied to the job as well as to future career goals. A degree in criminal justice can lead to a variety of different jobs from the crime scene to the courtroom. 

Learn Flexibly Online, On Your Schedule

Program Details

Consistent with the university student outcomes, upon completion of the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree, graduates will be able to:

  1. Apply basic criminal justice research concepts and methodology as they are employed in the application of criminology in policy formation. 
  2. Describe the basic concepts of the American political systems, including federal, state and local criminal justice systems.
  3. Analyze the significant issues concerning the criminal justice systems: law enforcement, courts and corrections.
  4. Engage in a personal faith pilgrimage, which enables the integration of faith and reason.

CJS 485: Methods of Research for Criminal Justice

The course examines scientific approaches to the study of criminal justice. Students will learn how to research and study crime using the scientific method. 

CJS 350: Emergency Management

Chief components of the course are the establishment of protocols and procedures, planning and preparedness, intergovernmental responsibilities, developing a response, and mitigating disasters and recovery.

CJS 304: Ethics for Law Enforcement

A traditional exploration of the field of law enforcement ethics, which broadly encompasses the history of justice and theories of morality and ethics from antiquity to the modern age. 

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Is financial aid available to help pay for online programs?
Our online degrees offer a reputable and more affordable option for earning your bachelor’s, master's or doctorate degree. When pursuing an online degree, students are freed from the financial obligations that accompany some traditional degrees, such as room accommodations, gas and parking. Additionally, CBU has partnered with select employers to provide their employees with the opportunity to improve their career through their educational goals and receive a 20% tuition scholarship. Learn more about tuition and financial aid.

Are CBU's online programs accredited? 
California Baptist University (CBU), which includes all programs offered online, is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). Many prospective students are uncertain about which college degrees employers or universities will accept. This regional accreditation by WSCUC means you can be confident that your CBU degree is recognized and respected by schools and companies across the country.

CBU Online has received various awards and has been ranked in the top 50 in the nation - best online bachelor’s degree category by U.S. News & World Report for 7 consecutive years.

What resources do I need to complete my degree online?
To complete your online degree, you will need access to a computer, Wi-Fi and a word processor like Microsoft Word. These are necessary to access the student learning system and complete your assignments. Some programs may require different resources. Check with your enrollment counselor for specific expectations upon applying for your program, or you can view additional information here.

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When you complete and submit your application to CBU, a friendly and knowledgeable admissions counselor will guide you through the admissions process and all the necessary steps to become a Lancer.

CBU accepts applications for online enrollment throughout the year, and most online degree programs can start at 6 semester entry points per calendar year.

Online Semester Classes Begin
Summer 2024 - Session 2 July 1
Fall 2024 - Session 1 September 2
Fall 2024 - Session 2 October 28
Spring 2025 - Session 1 January 6
Spring 2025 - Session 2 March 3
Summer 2025 - Session 1 May 5
Summer 2025 - Session 2 June 30

How to Apply

Career Possibilities

  • Police Patrol Officer
  • Private Detective
  • Investigator
  • Corrections Officer

*Some career options may require further education.

Related Programs

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Next Steps

Join a growing group of accomplished alumni who earned their degree while balancing career and family goals. To begin your journey at California Baptist University and connect with your God-given calling, request more information or apply today!