Criminal Justice
Criminal Justice is a Bachelor Degree program offered by Keiser University in Port St. Lucie, FL. The program takes 4 Years to complete.
Program Overview
Keiser University’s Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice examines every layer of the criminal justice system, from law enforcement training and criminal investigations to court processes, corrections, and community supervision. Core courses cover criminal law, criminal behavior, constitutional protections, ethics, and criminal evidence. Criminal justice electives allow students to explore areas like organized crime, terrorism, cybercrime, and white-collar offenses.
Students learn research methods, program evaluation, and policy analysis. They examine how justice systems balance public safety with individual rights, and how criminal justice professionals apply criminological theory to real situations. The program prepares graduates for law enforcement positions, correctional roles, investigative services, and positions within the judicial system.
The mission of Keiser University’s Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program is to prepare students for placement and advancement as criminal justice professionals. The program equips students to be critical thinkers who possess soft skills and value ethical approaches to the practice of criminal justice.
Program GoalsStudents completing this bachelor’s in criminal justice will:
- Be proficient in researching, collecting and organizing complex data, solving problems, and working collaboratively.
- Develop practical knowledge and communication skills necessary for employment and advancement in criminal justice related fields.
- Be able to provide competent, ethical leadership skills required in the criminal justice field.
- Be able to operate in a climate of tolerance and respect where opposing viewpoints can be openly shared.
No specific prerequisites exist for entering the criminal justice program.
Program HighlightsSmall class sizes with field expert faculty
Flexible online bachelor’s degree and on-campus options
General education courses building cultural literacy and critical thinking skills
Real-world experience through internships and case studies
Access to financial aid options and military tuition assistance
Same degree whether completed online or on campus
Required 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), scholarships, and Florida state aid programs available. Dedicated financial aid counselors assist with applications.
Career Outcomes
Criminal justice graduates from Keiser University prepare for careers across the criminal justice field. Career outcomes include entry-level and mid-level positions in law enforcement, corrections, probation officers, crime analysis, forensic investigations, and victim services. Graduates also pursue opportunities with federal agencies, local government, courts, and nonprofit organizations focused on public safety and social justice.
This bachelor’s program supports criminal justice professionals by building foundational knowledge in criminal justice systems, criminological theory, research methods, and legal frameworks. Graduates gain communication skills and critical thinking abilities that apply across protective service occupations and human services roles.
Career Outcomes in Criminal Justice
- Law Enforcement positions
- Crime analysts
- Federal agents
- Homeland security roles
- Victim advocates and victim services coordinators
- Juvenile justice specialists
- Private investigators
- Security managers
- Court services personnel
Why Choose Keiser University
Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Criminal Justice Career
- Critical thinking skills for evaluating evidence and policies
- Communication skills for reports, presentations, and public interaction
- Research methods for crime analysis and program evaluation
- Foundational knowledge of criminal law and constitutional procedures
- Understanding of criminal behavior and criminological theory
- Ethics and professionalism in justice settings
- Investigative procedures and evidence handling
- Leadership and management principles for criminal justice organizations
Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working professionals, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.
Request More InfoFrequently Asked Questions
Can I get a criminal justice degree online at Keiser University?
Yes. Keiser University’s Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice is offered online, with options to study on campus or in a hybrid format if you prefer. Students receive the same quality instruction, support, and resources across all delivery methods.
What's the difference between the associate, bachelor's, and master's programs?
Associate degree programs provide foundational knowledge perfect for entry-level roles in law enforcement, corrections, and security. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice offers a deeper understanding of the criminal justice system and opens doors to supervisory positions, federal positions, and specialized roles. Master’s degrees prepare you for advanced leadership, policy development, and executive positions in law enforcement and public safety. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, higher education levels often connect to greater career advancement opportunities and higher earning potential.
What careers can I pursue with a Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice?
A bachelor’s in criminal justice prepares graduates for diverse criminal justice careers. Law enforcement positions include police officer roles with municipal, county, and state agencies. Correctional careers span from correctional officers to correctional treatment specialists. Court-related positions include probation officers, parole officers, and court services coordinators. Investigative services roles range from crime scene analysts to private investigators. Federal agencies also hire criminal justice graduates. Additional paths include victim services, juvenile justice, crime analysis, and security management across both public and private sectors.
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.
Does this program qualify for financial aid?
Yes. Students in the bachelor’s degree in criminal program can access and may qualify for federal financial aid, including Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study programs. State grants, institutional scholarships, employer tuition reimbursement, and military tuition assistance may also apply. Contact a financial aid counselor to explore your financial aid options and understand your specific financial obligation.
Does this criminal justice program hold specialized accreditation?
Keiser University holds institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Learn more about Keiser University accreditation. The criminal justice program does not require specialized programmatic accreditation. The program still delivers a comprehensive curriculum that meets educational standards and prepares graduates for successful careers in criminal justice.
Can you become a police officer with a criminal justice degree?
Yes. A bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Keiser University provides foundational knowledge in law enforcement procedures, criminal law, and justice systems needed to pursue police officer careers. While agencies still require police academy training and certification, this bachelor’s program helps fulfill education requirements and prepares you for application processes, written exams, and interviews. Many law enforcement agencies now prefer or require bachelor’s degrees for competitive positions and advancement opportunities.
How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in criminal justice?
Earning your bachelor’s degree in criminal typically takes approximately 40 months when studying full-time. Students with transfer credits from previous college coursework may complete the degree faster. Those studying part-time while working take longer. Your academic advisor helps plan a timeline based on your transfer credits, course load, and personal schedule.
How much does it cost to earn this degree?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser University offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more information about the degree cost, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.
What courses are required in the bachelor's program?
Core courses in the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program include:
- Criminology
- Introduction to Criminal Justice
- Criminal Law
- Criminal Investigation
- Introduction to Law Enforcement
- Introduction to Corrections
- Introduction to Juvenile Procedures
- Criminal Justice Management
- Ethics in Criminal Justice
- Constitutional Criminal Procedures
- Criminal Evidence and Procedures
Students also complete general education courses in areas like English composition, mathematics, science in criminal justice applications, communications, and social sciences. Upper-division criminal justice electives allow you to explore specialized topics like cybercrime, terrorism, victimology, organized crime, and forensic applications. Research methods and a capstone project round out the degree program.
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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. This criminal justice program meets academic standards for quality and rigor.
While the criminal justice degree does not require specialized programmatic accreditation, the program provides solid preparation for entry into the criminal justice field and meets educational requirements for many law enforcement positions and protective service occupations.
Required Courses
| Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Criminal Justice Lower Division Courses (24.0 credit hours) | |
| Criminology | 3 |
| Introduction to Criminal Justice | 3 |
| Introduction to Corrections | 3 |
| Introduction to Law Enforcement | 3 |
| Communications and Writing for CJ Professionals | 3 |
| Introduction to Juvenile Procedures | 3 |
| Criminal Law | 3 |
| Criminal Investigation | 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 |
| Criminal Justice Upper Division Major Courses-Required (15.0 credit hours) | |
| Criminal Justice Management | 3 |
| Ethics in Criminal Justice | 3 |
| Constitutional Criminal Procedures | 3 |
| Criminal Evidence and Procedures | 3 |
| Integrated Criminal Justice Capstone Project* | 3 |
| Subtotal | 15 |
| Criminal Justice Upper Division Major Courses-Additional (21.0 credit hours) | |
| Deviant Behavior | 3 |
| Victimology | 3 |
| Crime and the Media | 3 |
| Organized Crime | 3 |
| White-Collar and Economic Crime | 3 |
| Drug Control | 3 |
| Terrorism | 3 |
| Human Exploitation | 3 |
| Private Security | 3 |
| Comparative Criminal Justice Systems | 3 |
| Protective Services | 3 |
| Cyber Crimes | 3 |
| CJ Internship I | 3 |
| CJ Internship II | 3 |
| Subtotal | 42 |
| Upper Division General Education Courses (9.0 credit hours) | |
| Research Writing | 3 |
| Interpersonal Communication | 3 |
| Sociology of the Urban Community | 3 |
| Subtotal | 9 |
| Program Total | 162 |
