Online Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice
Arizona State University’s online Bachelor of Science in criminology and criminal justice prepares you to understand the impact of crime and develop practical solutions to address it. In this program, you’ll build strong research, analytical and communication skills essential for navigating today’s complex criminal justice landscape. Upon graduation, you’ll be equipped to work in criminal justice occupations in various sectors.
Quick facts
Next start date: 08/21/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
Understand the causes and consequences of crime and the role of criminal justice agencies
This program teaches you to conduct research, develop theories, investigate crime scenes and compose reports. You’ll study sociological, psychological, biological and economic explanations for individual crime, along with how crime varies across areas. Coursework also covers the history, legal issues and current practices of crime control through police agencies, the court system, prisons, probation and parole. By exploring behavioral science, psychology and logic, you’ll gain the skills in the criminal justice field.
Choose the right criminal justice degree for you
ASU’s criminal justice program options each provide valuable knowledge, but choosing the right one depends on your career goals. This criminology and criminal justice program provides a broad foundation in the causes of crime, the consequences and the role of criminal justice agencies in managing it. Coursework is designed to equip you with the skills to apply research findings to real-world situations. You’ll sharpen your critical thinking and research abilities and gain practical experience that prepares you for a wide range of roles.
If you're interested in law enforcement, the Bachelor of Science in criminology and criminal justice with a concentration in policing focuses on the operation of police organizations. In this program, you'll study key topics such as case law, crime analysis and police-citizen relations. You’ll also research how the U.S. Constitution protects individual rights during interactions with law enforcement.
If you want to continue on to graduate studies, these programs can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master’s degrees include:
Will my diploma say ‘online’?
No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.”
Online criminology and criminal justice classes
This online criminal justice degree emphasizes communication, behavioral science and justice studies. Alongside foundational courses on the criminal justice system, you’ll dive into topics such as policy, gender and race. You’ll also choose from a wide range of electives, from terrorism and domestic violence to police accountability, organized crime and victimization.
The jobs a criminal justice degree readies you for
Earning this degree can open the door to careers in law enforcement, corrections and the legal system. You can also pursue high-impact roles in cybersecurity, forensics, intelligence analysis, investigations and related fields. Additional career paths include but aren’t limited to:
Correctional Officer
Corrections Officer
Corrections Sergeant
Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO)
Detective Sergeant
Forensic Specialist
Fraud Investigator
Intelligence Officer
Police Sergeant/Detective
Learn from professionals in criminology
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:
- Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences
- Fellow of the American Psychological Association
- Member of the National Academy of Public Administration
Learn from professionals in criminology
The impressive faculty in the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions inspire the next generation of public service leaders through real-world solutions to issues in areas such as child welfare, safety, city management, human trafficking and water scarcity. Faculty highlights include:
- Fellow of the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences
- Fellow of the American Psychological Association
- Member of the National Academy of Public Administration
How to apply
first-year student
You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Don't meet admission requirements?
You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.
To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.
*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.
Nationally recognized public service programs
The Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions is a comprehensive public service college dedicated to addressing social problems through teaching, research and service. Our programs, which range from public policy and social work to criminal justice and emergency management, are designed to prepare graduates to make a difference in their communities.
#2
best graduate homeland security and emergency management programs, according to U.S. News & World Report
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in the U.S. and #7 in the world for hospitality, leisure, sport and tourism, according to the Center for World University Rankings
Top 5
Master of Nonprofit Leadership and Management in the nation, according to U.S. News & Report
Top 10
best online master's in criminal justice programs for veterans, according to U.S. News & World Report
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
Tuition calculator
Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.
