Criminal Justice (AA)
Criminal Justice (AA) is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Melbourne, FL. The program takes 2 Years to complete.
Program Overview
Keiser University’s Associate of Arts degree in Criminal Justice provides students with a comprehensive foundation in the principles, practices, and systems that define the American criminal justice landscape. The program explores key areas such as criminal behavior patterns, law enforcement organizations, juvenile justice systems, legal principles and doctrines, and the fundamentals of criminal investigations.
Through a combination of academic study and practical, hands-on learning experiences, students gain the critical thinking and technical skills necessary to analyze real-world criminal justice challenges. This degree program prepares graduates for entry-level positions in law enforcement, corrections, and security. The associate degree in criminal justice also serves as a strong stepping stone toward advanced study in the field, including bachelor’s degree programs in criminal justice or related disciplines at Keiser University or other educational institutions.
Students explore the criminal justice system from multiple perspectives, examining criminal law, criminal procedure, police procedures, and how various components work together within the court system. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving skills, ethical behavior, and foundational understanding of the legal system that governs law enforcement and corrections at local, state, and federal levels.
The mission of Keiser University’s Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice program is to prepare students for entry level placement as criminal justice professionals. The program utilizes a combination of didactic and hands-on activities to instruct the student in areas such as criminal behavior patterns, law enforcement organizations, juvenile systems, legal principles and doctrines and fundamentals of criminal investigations.
Program GoalsThe criminal justice associate degree program aims to:
- Develop students’ understanding of the American Criminal Justice System.
Understand the history of the criminal justice system, including its evolution and its impact on society. - Demonstrate a capacity to think critically about issues involving the criminal justice system.
- Develop skills that are necessary for careers in criminal justice and related fields and have students uphold the ethical standard of criminal justice professionals.
None. Students with a high school diploma or equivalent can begin the associate degree program.
Program HighlightsThe Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice offers small class sizes, flexible learning options including online and on-campus formats, transfer credits that vary based on previous coursework, and comprehensive preparation for both career entry and further education toward a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice.
Estimated Student CostsRequired and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.
Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information
Federal financial aid (Pell Grants, Stafford Loans), institutional scholarships, and state aid for Florida residents available for qualified students. Financial aid counselors guide students through the process.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Keiser University’s Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice prepare for entry-level positions across the criminal justice field. This criminal justice associate degree opens doors to career opportunities in law enforcement, corrections, private security, and related fields throughout the justice system. The program provides foundational knowledge that supports various career paths while preparing students for further education at a four-year institution.
Career Pathways in Criminal Justice
Law Enforcement Opportunities
- Evidence collection specialists
- Federal government positions
- Police officer positions with police departments
- Law enforcement officer roles at local, state, and federal levels
Corrections and Rehabilitation
- Correctional officers in correctional facilities
- Probation officer support roles
- Juvenile justice positions in juvenile courts
- Victim advocates in government agencies
Investigation and Analysis
- Criminal investigations support
- Crime scene documentation assistance
- Court system administrative positions
Why Choose Keiser University
Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Criminal Justice Career
- Criminal justice system operations and criminal procedure knowledge
- Criminal investigations techniques and evidence collection methods
- Police procedures and law enforcement protocols
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Communication skills for law enforcement and court settings
- Understanding of juvenile justice and correctional systems
- Foundational knowledge of criminal law and the legal system
- Preparation for careers as police officers, correctional officers, and security professionals
Keiser University offers career-oriented education designed to support working professionals, career changers, recent high school graduates, and military veterans. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree levels.
Request More InfoFrequently Asked Questions
Can I get a criminal justice degree online at Keiser University?
Yes. Keiser University’s Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice is offered online, with the option to study on campus or in a hybrid format.. Students receive the same quality instruction, support, and resources across all delivery methods, making it convenient for working professionals and traditional students alike.
What's the difference between the associate, bachelor's, and master's programs?
Our associate degree programs provide foundational knowledge and prepare students for entry-level positions as police officers, correctional officers, and security professionals. Bachelor’s degree programs offer a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system and can open doors to supervisory positions and specialized roles. Master’s degrees prepare graduates for advanced leadership positions in law enforcement, public safety, corrections, or policy development at the federal level and in educational institutions.
What careers can I pursue with an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice?
Graduates of the criminal justice associate degree program can pursue careers as police officers with local police departments, correctional officers in correctional facilities, law enforcement officers, security guards, probation officer assistants, victim advocates, and positions in juvenile justice. The degree provides foundational understanding for various career paths while preparing students for further education toward a bachelor’s degree.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.
Is financial aid available for online students?
Online students pursuing an online degree can access the same financial aid resources as campus-based students, including grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.
Are these programs accredited?
Keiser University holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees, including those in criminal justice. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation. While the criminal justice programs do not require specialized programmatic accreditation, the program offers a robust and practical curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in the criminal justice field and prepare students for further education.
Can you become a police officer with a criminal justice degree?
Yes. A criminal justice associate degree from Keiser University provides the foundational knowledge in law enforcement procedures, criminal law, police procedures, and the justice system needed to pursue careers as a police officer. While specific police academy training remains required by hiring agencies and police departments, Keiser’s associate degree program helps fulfill education requirements and prepares graduates for the application and exam processes through comprehensive study of criminal procedure and police operations.
How long does it take to get a criminal justice degree?
The Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice typically takes approximately 24 months to complete. Time to degree completion is an estimate, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors. Contact the admissions team for more information about program length and transfer credit options.
How much does it cost to earn this degree?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.
What courses are required in the associate program?
Courses in the Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice program include foundational topics such as:
- Criminology
- Introduction to Criminal Justice
- Criminal Law
- Introduction to Juvenile Procedures
- Introduction to Law Enforcement
- Introduction to Corrections
- Criminal Investigations
- Writing and Communications for CJ Professionals
Additional general education courses in behavioral sciences, social sciences, communications, mathematics, and natural science complete the 60 credit hours required for the associate degree. Your academic advisor will guide your course path based on your goals and any transfer credits from previous educational institutions.
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Location
Accreditation
Keiser University holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. While the criminal justice programs doesn’t require specialized programmatic accreditation, the program offers a robust and practical curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in the criminal justice field.
Required Courses
| Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Criminal Justice Major Courses (24.0 credit hours) | |
| Criminology | 3 |
| Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 |
| Introduction to Corrections | 3 |
| Introduction to Law Enforcement | 3 |
| Introduction to Juvenile Procedures | 3 |
| Writing and Communications for CJ Professionals | 3 |
| Criminal Law | 3 |
| Criminal Investigations | 3 |
| Subtotal | 24 |
| General Education Courses (36.0 credit hours) | |
| American History Pre 1876 | 3 |
| American History Since 1876 | 3 |
| Political Science | 3 |
| Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| Sociology | 3 |
| Subtotal | 15 |
| Communications (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Speech Communications | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Computers (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Introduction to Computers | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Economics (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Microeconomics | 3 |
| Macroeconomics | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| English (6.0 credit hours) | |
| English Composition I | 3 |
| English Composition II | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours) | |
| American Literature | 3 |
| English Literature | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Mathematics (6.0 credit hours) | |
| College Algebra | 3 |
| College Mathematics | 3 |
| Applications of Mathematics | 3 |
| Statistics (required) | 3 |
| Subtotal | 12 |
| Natural Science (6.0 credit hours) | |
| General Biology | 3 |
| General Biology Laboratory | 1 |
| Environmental Science | 3 |
| Advanced Biology | 3 |
| Advanced Biology Laboratory | 1 |
| General Chemistry | 3 |
| General Chemistry Laboratory | 1 |
| Advanced Chemistry | 3 |
| Advanced Chemistry Laboratory | 3 |
| Subtotal | 21 |
| Program Total | 96 |
