If you're passionate about understanding crime, law enforcement, and the justice system, a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice could be the ideal foundation for a rewarding career. This program offers a comprehensive exploration of the principles, practices, and theories that underpin the criminal justice system. Students gain insights into crime prevention, investigation techniques, and the societal impacts of law enforcement, preparing them for a diverse range of career opportunities in areas such as policing, corrections, and legal advocacy. With a focus on critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and practical skills development, graduates emerge ready to make a meaningful impact in the field of criminal justice.

As you start exploring criminal justice programs, you'll find that there are numerous options available, both online and at local universities near you.

At Dreambound, our goal is to provide unbiased information to help you make an informed decision. In this post, we'll cover the following topics:

• Online vs on-campus criminal justice Bachelor's programs
• Career opportunities with a Criminal Justice degree
• Is a BA in Criminal Justice worth it
• Bachelor of Science (BS) vs Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminal Justice

Online vs on-campus criminal justice Bachelor's programs

Online programs

An increasing number of accredited universities now offer fully online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice programs, making it possible to earn your degree while managing work or family responsibilities.

Here are some advantages of the online format:

• Flexibility: Complete coursework on your own schedule, as long as you adhere to deadlines. Many people cannot attend classes offered by the nearest in-person school due to scheduling conflicts, so online programs provide an alternative
• Accelerated: Online programs are often accelerated, allowing you to earn your degree faster if that's your goal
• Specializations: Many online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice programs offer specializations, such as cybercrime, forensic psychology, or homeland security, allowing you to focus on your specific interests. In-person programs may not offer these options
• Variety & shopping: Nearly all online universities now offer a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice. You can explore and compare programs from universities nationwide without the need to relocate
• Adult-friendly: Since adults often require more flexibility than recent high school graduates seeking a traditional 4-year college experience, many online bachelor's programs cater to adult learners. This usually means greater flexibility and more credit transfers for prior education

Although the curriculum and graduation requirements are similar to those of on-campus programs, the online experience involves more self-directed learning through recorded lectures, virtual simulations, discussion forums, and independent studies.

Here are a few examples of online Bachelor's in Criminal Justice programs:

Arizona State University

• Length: 120 credits (7.5 weeks per class)
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports an average cost of $12,814/year
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports a median salary of $58,967 for graduates

Southern New Hampshire University

• Length: 120 credits (self-paced online)
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports an average cost of $22,873/year
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports a median salary of $53,611 for graduates

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In-Person or Hybrid Criminal Justice Bachelor's Programs

The traditional on-campus route is well-suited for those who prefer a more conventional university experience with face-to-face classes, campus facilities and resources, and close interaction with professors and classmates.

Location is crucial since you'll be attending in-person. Research state universities or private colleges that offer affordable Bachelor's programs in your area. The average tuition for a bachelor's degree in criminal justice at public, in-state schools ranges from approximately $7,000 to $12,000 per year, while at private universities, it can vary from $20,000 to $50,000 or more annually. It's important to note that these figures are rough estimates, and actual tuition costs can vary widely. Additionally, other expenses such as room and board, textbooks, and fees should also be considered when estimating the total cost of attendance.

Here are some of the advantages:

• Structured class schedules and consistent meeting times each week, which can be beneficial for those who struggle with online classes
• Hands-on instruction, practical labs, and field studies
• Access to extracurricular opportunities facilitated by college connections with local organizations, including research, internships, and community outreach programs
• Access to campus amenities such as housing, libraries, dining, and student life

Here are a few examples of well-regarded local criminal justice Bachelor's programs:

John Jay College of Criminal Justice (CUNY)

• Length: 128 to 134 credits (4-year program located in New York City, NY)
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports an average cost of $2,254
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports $54,207/year median earnings

Michigan State University

• Length: 120 credits (4-year program if enrolled full-time)
• Cost: US College Scorecard reports an average cost of $10,925
• Outcomes: US College Scorecard reports $64,566/year median earnings

How to Choose: Online vs Local

To decide between an online or local criminal justice Bachelor's program, consider factors such as:

• Learning style: Online learning requires strong self-motivation; on-campus learning is ideal for face-to-face learners
• Cost: Costs can vary significantly. Online allows you to compare options for the most affordable, but there may be an inexpensive in-person program near you as well
• Schedule: Online offers flexibility, while on-campus requires set class times each term
• Career Goals: An on-campus program may provide more research, hands-on, and networking opportunities related to your specific interests in the criminal justice field

How to Choose: BA vs BS in Criminal Justice

When considering a Bachelor's degree in criminal justice, one of the main decisions is whether to pursue a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminal Justice. Here are some key differences between the two:

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Criminal Justice

• Typically includes more liberal arts requirements such as foreign languages, humanities, arts, and literature courses
• Offers more flexibility for electives outside of the criminal justice major
• Curriculum emphasizes theories, cultural considerations, and the conceptual aspects of criminal justice
• Concentrations may focus on criminology, law enforcement, corrections, and juvenile justice

A B.A. provides a broader education suitable for roles like probation officer, correctional treatment specialist, or positions in law enforcement agencies where understanding human behavior and social issues is important.

Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Criminal Justice

• Includes extensive requirements in natural sciences such as biology, forensic science, statistics, and research methods
• Emphasizes the scientific study of criminal justice through increased lab work, data analysis, and experimentation
• Possible concentrations may focus on forensic science, cybercrime, homeland security, and crime scene investigation

Admission criteria, curriculum, and expenses are typically alike for both B.A. and B.S. criminal justice programs offered by the same institution. The primary distinguishing factor lies in the balance between liberal arts and scientific or research-oriented coursework within the major.

So, should you pick a BA over a BS? It doesn't really matter, as we haven't seen any evidence that one is better than the other. However, employers generally value quantitative skills more, which you may get more of with the BS, but it is definitely possible to acquire with a BA as well. BS degrees are generally harder than BAs, though, so if you're at risk of dropping out, it's of course better to do the BA.

What Can You Do With a Criminal Justice Bachelor's?

Graduates of Bachelor's programs in criminal justice often join industries such as:

• Law enforcement (police officer, detective, FBI agent)
• Corrections (correctional officer, probation officer, parole officer)
• Legal system (paralegal, court administrator, victim advocate)
• Security (security manager, loss prevention specialist)
• Government agencies (DEA, DHS, and ATF)
• Social services (youth counselor, substance abuse counselor)

Many higher-level positions in criminal justice (e.g., forensic psychologist, criminologist, criminal profiler) require a graduate degree. Be sure to plan on that if that's the type of job you're looking to get.

There are also many less traditional paths, such as private investigation, cybersecurity, and policy analysis. Whatever job you end up wanting to do, it's extremely important to develop skills and get as much hands-on experience (via internships, part-time jobs, etc.) as possible. Many criminal justice majors struggle with finding jobs if they don't do so.

Additionally, understanding how long it takes to become a correctional officer is important. It helps you know how much time you'll need to spend and how much money you could make. You can learn more about this in 'How Long Does It Take to Become a Correctional Officer?' Also, check out 'How Much Does a Correctional Officer Make?' to learn about the pay.

During Your Criminal Justice Program

In your criminal justice coursework, you'll develop a broad knowledge base across principles like criminology, law enforcement, corrections, criminal law, and research methods. You'll learn to think critically, analyze crime data, understand the criminal justice system, and apply ethical principles in criminal justice practices.

Common required courses include:

• Introduction to Criminal Justice
• Criminology
• Criminal Law
• Criminal Procedure
• Policing
• Corrections
• Juvenile Justice
• Criminal Justice Research Methods

Many programs allow concentrations or electives in specialty areas like cybercrime, homeland security, forensic science, and beyond.

Related Alternative Programs

If you have different interests, other Bachelor's program options to consider include:

• Criminology
• Forensic Science
• Homeland Security
• Cybersecurity
• Sociology
• Psychology
• Political Science

While criminal justice explores the various components of the justice system, these alternative majors put more emphasis on specific aspects like the causes of crime, scientific investigation techniques, national security, or the study of human behavior and society.

Whichever path you choose, know that studying criminal justice lends itself to making a positive impact through countless rewarding career possibilities in law enforcement, corrections, the legal system, and beyond.