Bachelor's Degree in Criminal JusticeOnline Bachelor's Degree Program
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Be a Force for Justice with a Bachelor's Degree
Earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice at University of Arkansas Grantham can open a wide range of professional opportunities in law enforcement, security, and public safety. Required coursework builds a foundation of knowledge in advanced criminal justice theory and crime, the practice of law enforcement, and the U.S. judicial system, which includes adult and juvenile corrections. U A Grantham’s 100% online format allows you to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the comfort of your home and at your convenience. Your online studies will introduce you to the important work being done by police and other security agencies and organizations, while also introducing you to the work being done behind the scenes administratively.Why UA Grantham for your Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice?
- Students can transfer in up to 75% of credits for this degree
- We have one of the lowest tuition rates in the U.S.1
- We provide a new laptop to all new and returning degree-seeking students at no additional cost
- We are accredited by the Distance Education Accreditation Commission (DEAC)
Criminal Justice (BA) Curriculum
University of Arkansas Grantham’s 100% online coursework is designed to help you prepare for success.
Program Core
General Education
Program Outcomes
- Explain the various causes of crime using criminal justice theories, practices and processes to a multicultural population
- Compare and contrast historical and contemporary police functions, issues and responses to crime
- Describe the nature and function of corrections, its services, practices and institutions
- Analyze relevant criminal law and procedures as they relate to the administration of justice
- Differentiate between adult and juvenile procedures throughout the criminal justice system
- Apply the concepts of professionalism, ethical behavior and social responsibility to make decisions as a criminal justice professional
- Evaluate the three components of the criminal justice system
What Can You Do With an Online Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice?
Earning your bachelor’s degree in criminal justice helps your knowledge and understanding of the justice system. When you better understand criminal law, investigation techniques, ethics, and public policy, you are prepared for success in roles requiring critical thinking, communication, and decision-making skills. Graduates with a BA in Criminal Justice often pursue opportunities in fields such as:
- Law Enforcement and Criminal Investigations
- Probation and Parole Administration
- Emergency Management and Disaster Response
- Homeland Security and Border Protection
- Crime Analysis and Intelligence Gathering
- Private and Corporate Security Management
- Federal Agencies, including the FBI, DEA, or U.S. Marshals
Our criminal justice program is made to meet your specific needs by offering two specialization tracks: Computer Forensic Investigation or Homeland Security, giving you a competitive edge in today’s high-demand fields within criminal justice.
Why Choose UA Grantham for Your BA in Criminal Justice?
Affordable and Accessible Education
We offer one of the lowest tuition rates in the nation₁—with no application fees and a complimentary laptop, we set you up to succeed from day one, making a BA in Criminal Justice within reach.Study at Your Own Pace with Flexible Online Learning
Our 100% online program allows you to study on your terms. With classes starting monthly and lasting just 8 weeks, you can balance school, work, and your personal life.Gain New Criminal Justice Skills
Many employers in the criminal justice field require a bachelor’s degree for higher-level positions. Our Criminal Justice program equips you with advanced knowledge in the field, so you can apply confidently for that promotion.Specialized Tracks Supporting Professional Growth
In addition to a comprehensive curriculum in criminal law, criminology, and corrections, we also offer two concentrations, specializing in areas with growing demand:- Computer Forensic Investigation
- Homeland Security
Specialized Fields of Study
The UA Grantham online Bachelor of Arts programs offer two concentrations within the field of criminal justice: homeland security and computer forensics investigations. These concentrations allow students to focus on specific areas of interest and gain expertise in their chosen field they want to explore.Available Specialization Courses:
Criminal Justice Overview
An overview of the criminal justice system, its components (police, courts, corrections), and the role of each in maintaining law and order.Criminal Law
The study of criminal statutes, legal principles, and the legal process, including the rights of the accused and due process. Explore historical and ethical aspects of criminal justice that dominate news headlines each day, including the use of force and the role mental health plays in committing and prosecuting those who commit crimes.Policing and Law Enforcement
An exploration of police practices, procedures, and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies. Topics may include community policing, ethics, and the evolving relationship between the police and the communities they serve. Dive into the complexities of being a police officer, from defining its role to identifying what influences the conduct of one.Criminal Investigation
Curriculum includes techniques and principles of criminal investigation, including evidence collection, crime scene analysis, and forensic science. Investigative practices are the key components of finding, apprehending and prosecuting a criminal. Learn more about historical investigative tactics and techniques and how they’ve evolved.Criminology
The study of the causes and theories of criminal behavior, including social, psychological, and economic factors. Getting into the mind of criminals and the knowing behaviors and traits that result in a life of crime help prevent future crimes and rehabilitate and prosecute those that have already been committed.Criminal Procedure
An in-depth look at the legal procedures and constitutional rights that protect the accused during the criminal justice process. Bringing criminals to justice is often not as simple as it might seem. Learn the reasons behind the complexities of the judiciary process and the importance of following protocols and precedents.Corrections and Rehabilitation
The study of correctional facilities, probation, parole, and rehabilitation programs for offenders. Learn about the debate about the effectiveness of rehabilitation and whether rehabilitation programs can effectively change offenders, and the many rights and responsibilities those in the criminal justice system have while they’re detained.Juvenile Justice
An examination of the juvenile justice system and the unique issues surrounding young offenders.Ethics in Criminal Justice
Discussion of ethical dilemmas and moral issues that professionals in the criminal justice field may face.Criminal Justice Administration
An overview of the administrative and managerial aspects of criminal justice agencies, including budgeting, policy development, and leadership. Look behind the curtain at why certain administrative decisions are made, how they’re communicated and what effect they have.Research Methods in Criminal Justice
Training in research techniques and methodologies used to study and analyze criminal justice issues. The curriculum may also include electives that allow students to specialize in areas of particular interest, such as leadership, public administration, or psychology and the law.What is the Difference Between Criminal Justice and Criminology?
Criminal Justice: Criminal justice is a broader field that primarily deals with the practical aspects of the criminal justice system. It encompasses the study of law enforcement, the courts, corrections, and the entire process of how crimes are investigated, prosecuted, and punished. Criminal justice professionals, such as police officers, lawyers, judges, and corrections officers, work within this system to maintain law and order and ensure that justice is served.
Criminology: Criminology, on the other hand, is a more specialized and academic field that focuses on the study of crime as a social phenomenon. It delves into the causes, patterns, and consequences of criminal behavior, aiming to understand why people commit crimes, how society responds to crime, and how crime can be prevented. Criminologists analyze data, conduct research, and develop theories to explain criminal behavior.
In summary, criminal justice is concerned with the operation and administration of the criminal justice system, while criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminal behavior. While these fields are closely related and often overlap, they have distinct areas of expertise. Many individuals pursue programs that bridge both fields, using criminological knowledge to inform and improve the practices within the criminal justice system.
Learn More: Criminal Justice vs. Criminology: What's the Difference?