Online Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice – Policing
Are you interested in the policies and practices of modern policing? Arizona State University’s Bachelor of Science in criminology and criminal justice with a concentration in policing builds your knowledge about policing strategies, management, accountability and more. Upon graduation, you’ll have the skills needed for law enforcement jobs at the local, state and federal levels.
Quick facts
Next start date: 01/13/2025
Total classes: 40
Weeks per class: 7.5
Total credit hours: 120
A criminal justice degree that prepares you for policing careers
In this policing degree concentration, you’ll gain an understanding of how police organizations operate, strategies for reducing crime and ways the U.S. Constitution protects the rights of individuals in their interactions with law enforcement. You’ll also explore a variety of topics central to careers in policing, including:
- Case law and criminal procedure.
- Crime analysis and mapping techniques.
- Police-citizen relations, especially within communities of color.
- Police accountability and management.
- Policing research.
Who is a good candidate for a policing degree?
Whether you currently serve in law enforcement or plan to in the future, this program may be a good fit for you. This policing degree concentration can support your goal to pursue a sworn position or civilian roles in areas such as private sector security, intelligence analysis or crime analysis.
Additionally, this degree is ideal for those looking to continue on to graduate studies. This bachelor’s degree 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:
Do you need a criminal justice degree to become a police officer?
While not required, earning a policing degree may offer you a leg up when applying for police officer roles. You may experience greater success in the application process and a higher salary potential because employers will value your advanced knowledge. In addition, if you’d like to pursue positions in police management or federal law enforcement, a four-year degree is typically necessary.
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.”
Policing degree concentration courses
Your courses focus on expanding your knowledge of policing research and strategies. You’ll also develop the critical thinking skills needed to apply findings to practice. Policing concentration courses cover a range of topics from police management and the law of investigations to police accountability and crime analysis.
The jobs this policing degree concentration prepares you for
As a graduate, you may pursue roles in a variety of law enforcement settings, such as local and state police departments, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Department of Justice, Secret Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, U.S. Marshals Service and more. You’ll also be prepared to work in policing research, asset protection and risk management. Additional career examples include, but aren’t limited to:
Corrections Officer
Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO)
Detective Sergeant
Forensic Specialist
Intelligence Officer
Police Sergeant/Detective
Train Police Officer
Learn from top scholars in the law enforcement field
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 top scholars in the law enforcement field
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.
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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.
