Keiser University

Doctor of Criminal Justice

Port St. Lucie Campus
Doctoral Degree
Doctor of Criminal Justice
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Keiser University offers this program online.
$17,840 per semester. This program spans 4 semesters at full-time enrollment.
To receive a Doctor of Criminal Justice degree, students with a master’s degree must earn 44 graduate semester credit hours as described below. Depending on the transfer or credit and scheduling variables, the DCJ program can be completed in as little as 2.5 years or less. Keiser University’s website lists a range of 20 to 32 months.
A one-time $55 application fee applies on enrollment (subject to annual review).
Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid. Grants are not available at the graduate level, but federal student loans and scholarships are available to those who qualify.

Doctor of Criminal Justice is a Doctoral Degree program (100% Online) offered by Keiser University in Port St. Lucie, FL. The program takes 20–32 Months to complete, with tuition of $17,840 per semester.

Program Overview

The degree of DCJ is designed to produce students of crime and justice who possess: (1) a thorough understanding of criminal justice issues, (2) the intellectual and methodological skills necessary for the continuing process of discovery and understanding of crime- and justice-related issues, (3) the capacity for integrative and analytical thinking, (4) competency at transmitting knowledge, (5) problem-solving skills, and (6) effectively lead and manage criminal justice organizations. The DCJ program will produce students capable of making contributions to the criminal justice discipline in the academic and applied components of the discipline. The curriculum is designed to ensure that graduates are well equipped to participate in criminal justice positions emphasizing research, theory, evidence-based practice, and the administration of justice.

Program Mission

The Doctor of Criminal Justice program at Keiser University provides criminal justice practitioners with the skills and expertise to pursue advanced career opportunities in their field, ranging from military promotions to homeland security agencies and local law enforcement. By integrating criminological theory and practical skills with principles of ethical governance and leadership, the Doctor of Criminal Justice program equips students with a deeper understanding of how to translate academic insights into real-world improvements. Graduates will be prepared to apply theories and models to the management of criminal justice organizations and implement evidence-based policies and practices to effectively drive the administration of justice.

What sets this Program apart

Program Goals

  • Develop and critically evaluate advanced leadership theories and ethical governance practices to guide transformative changes in criminal justice and criminology organizations.
  • Formulate, rigorously evaluate, and implement innovative criminological theories and justice policies
  • Prepare students to pursue advanced career opportunities in criminal justice-related fields.

Admission Requirements and Process

Applicants desiring to enter Keiser University must submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. This permits proper scheduling and ensures availability of classroom space. Applications for Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.

Keiser University may accept transfer credits from a college or university recognized by the by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE). Coursework must be equivalent in content, level, and credit hours to the corresponding Keiser University course/s.

Qualified, accepted doctoral degree seeking students may transfer a maximum of 18 graduate level credits, but no more than two-thirds of the total credit hours (whichever is less), required for the program unless otherwise specified by a programmatic accreditor.

Acceptable courses will be equivalent to a B grade or higher unless otherwise specified by programmatic requirements.

Keiser University requires that, at a minimum, a student complete at least one third of the credit hours required for any graduate or post-baccalaureate professional degree through instruction offered by Keiser University.

General Requirements

  • Master’s or Doctorate Transcript
    Submission of an unofficial master's or doctorate transcript from an accredited school. If transcripts are in a foreign language, student must provide proof of Foreign Language…
  • Official Transcript Deadline
    Failure to provide an official transcript by the end of the first semester will lead to dismissal from the program and Graduate School.
  • Minimum 3.0 CGPA
    Minimum 3.0 CGPA
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae
    Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  • Personal Statement
    A quality personal statement will include at minimum: life experiences, career outcomes, societal contributions, and educational achievements that may lead to success in…
  • Graduate Degree
    Candidates for admission to the Doctor of Criminal Justice program are required to hold a graduate degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution.
  • Recommended Experience
    Two (2) years of full-time managerial or professional experience in criminal justice or related social science field is recommended.
  • Admission Decision
    An admission decision is based on a combination of a student’s academic performance, professional experience, and supplemental documents.
  • First-Semester Documentation
    Failure to provide documentation required at the end of the first semester may lead to suspension from the University.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact an Admissions Counselor
    Contact one of Keiser University’s friendly admissions counselors.
  2. 2
    Attend an Open House or Campus Visit
    Attend an Open House or plan a campus visit.
  3. 3
    Meet With Your Admissions Counselor
    Schedule a convenient time to meet with your admissions counselor to determine if Keiser University is right for you.
  4. 4
    Submit an Application
    Submit an application and complete your enrollment profile and application.
    Apply Now
  5. 5
    Review Program Requirements
    Review the Graduate School admission requirements for your program.
  6. 6
    Upload Your Admission Documents
    In the Student Enrollment Portal, click on “My Documents” and upload the corresponding documents to fulfil the admission requirements. Then submit the Letter of Recommendation Form and your Personal Statement.
  7. 7
    Schedule Your Financial Aid Appointment
    Your admissions counselor will connect you to your dedicated Financial Aid Officer to schedule your appointment and receive assistance completing the FAFSA. Keiser University’s FAFSA school code is 015159.
  8. 8
    Class Registration
    Once you have accepted your financial aid funding plan, the registrars will schedule your courses throughout your entire degree plan from start to completion.
  9. 9
    Order Books
    Your admissions counselor will assist you in ordering your books through the online bookstore. Standard receipt is 3–5 business days unless you order priority.
  10. 10
    Attend Orientation
    Online programs offer a self-paced orientation through Blackboard, or a scheduled live session before each class start date. For campus programs, speak with your admissions counselor about orientation requirements at your location.
  11. 11
    Begin Classes
    The class week runs Monday through Sunday, midnight EST. You must log in by Wednesday of week one to confirm attendance, and participate a minimum of three logins per week in the Blackboard classroom for each course.

Program Schedule

Keiser University publishes this program as 44.0 graduate semester credit hours (this will vary if a student transfers in credits).

Keiser University publishes the Doctor of Criminal Justice as 20 to 32 months.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • October 26th, 2026
  • January 11th, 2027
  • March 08th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • July 05th, 2027

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Per Semester Tuition
≈ $17,840
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Keiser University charges tuition and education fees per semester, based on scheduled credit hours. Each semester is 16 weeks. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure for the Graduate School, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

Semester credit loadTuition per semester
Full time (12+ credits)$17,840.00
Three-quarter time (9 to 11.99 credits)$13,380.00
Half time (6 to 8.99 credits)$8,920.00
Less than half time (3 to 5.99 credits)$4,460.00

An education fee of $750.00 per semester is charged for all graduate-level programs. A one-time application fee of $55.00 and a one-time registration fee of $145.00 are charged upon enrollment.

Curriculum

The Doctor of Criminal Justice at Keiser University is a practitioner-focused doctoral program emphasizing research, criminological theory, and evidence-based practice within the criminal justice system. Designed for experienced criminal justice professionals, this DCJ program equips doctoral students with advanced research design skills, theoretical knowledge, and practical applications needed to lead criminal justice agencies, shape criminal justice policies, and contribute meaningful scholarship to the field.

To receive a Doctor of Criminal Justice degree, students with a master’s degree must earn 44 graduate semester credit hours as described below.

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
CRJ700Proseminar in Criminal Justice and Criminology3
CRJ710Criminological Theory3
CRJ715Advanced Criminological Theory3
CRJ720Criminal Justice Policies and Practices3
CRJ730Police and Society3
CRJ750Criminal Justice Program Evaluation3
CRJ760Advanced Criminal Justice Leadership3
CRJ765Crime and Punishment3
CRJ790Special Topics3
RSM803Advanced Research Design3
RSM700Quantitative Research I3
RSM810Qualitative Research3
ADP900Applied Doctoral Project2
Doctoral Residency One

Career Outcomes

Through Keiser University’s academic departments, students learn the requisite skills for their career, and through Student Services they are instructed on such career preparatory activities as resume development, mock interviewing, career fairs, and professional networking. An online career center is available 24 hours a day. Job search stations with current job openings and career development resources are also provided. Resources are readily available to students, and job placement assistance is accessible to all graduates through the Department of Student Services. Although career services assistance is provided, Keiser University cannot promise or guarantee employment.

What to expect as a Keiser University student

Keiser University’s criminal justice doctoral program serves experienced professionals ready to advance their careers through doctoral study. With flexible online options, our program aligns with your leadership goals and strategic decision-making needs. Whether you aim for executive roles within law enforcement agencies, want to influence criminal justice reform, or plan to contribute to academic research and higher education, Keiser provides the advanced education and practical insight needed to make a lasting impact in the criminal justice field.

Campus Address

Port St. Lucie Campus
10330 South US 1
Port St. Lucie, FL 34952

Why Accreditation Is Important

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, educational specialist, and doctorate degrees.

  • Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid
  • Credits earned toward a respected credential

What Our Students Say

When I came to Keiser University, I had no idea what I was capable of doing. I knew if I made good grades and worked hard, it would look good on my resume. It would also show my girls how important an education was. So, I worked hard. KU prepared me for Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy and the Florida State Correctional program…I have finally reached my goal of becoming a full-time deputy, with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office.

Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate

Once I graduated, I found a job right out of college within my degree. I now proudly work for the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice.

Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate

Images

Doctor of Criminal Justice DCJ
Doctor of Criminal Justice DCJ
Doctor of Criminal Justice DCJ
Criminal Justice DCJ Degree

Top Questions About Earning a Doctor of Criminal Justice Degree

Can I earn a criminal justice degree online at Keiser University?
Yes. Keiser University’s Doctor of Criminal Justice program is available online, allowing you to complete coursework while maintaining your current professional responsibilities. Students receive the same quality instruction, research guidance, and academic support regardless of delivery format.
What sets the DCJ apart from other doctoral degrees?
The DCJ program focuses on practitioner-scholar development, blending criminological theory with practical applications for the criminal justice field. While other doctoral programs emphasize pure research or academic careers, this degree program prepares you for both academic and applied components of the discipline, making you a scholar-practitioner ready for leadership roles in criminal justice agencies or higher education.
What career opportunities open up with a doctoral degree?
Through this doctorate in criminal justice program, you will gain practical, hands-on skills for positions in criminology as well as a deeper academic understanding of criminological theory. You will be prepared to pursue pracademic (practical and academic) leadership roles or promotions within law enforcement agencies, correctional facilities, and homeland security organizations. You can pursue positions as a university faculty member, criminal justice consultant, policy analyst, research director for government agencies, emergency management director, or executive within criminal justice organizations. Graduate programs and community colleges also seek qualified faculty with doctoral degrees.
Can I receive credit for courses completed at another institution?
Keiser University’s Graduate School welcomes transfer credits from accredited institutions, subject to evaluation and approval. Key transfer credit policies include: • Master’s degree students may transfer up to 12 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) from an accredited college or university, provided the courses are equivalent to relevant Keiser University courses. • Doctoral degree students may transfer up to 18 graduate-level credits (master’s or doctoral level) with evaluation and approval. • Undergraduate credits are not transferable to graduate-level programs. • Credits from non-accredited institutions that are substantially equivalent in content may be granted on a course-by-course basis. • Transfer credits from non-U.S. institutions are evaluated through an approved educational evaluator service confirming equivalency to coursework at a U.S. accredited institution. • Acceptable courses must be equivalent to a grade of B or higher; courses with a Pass or Satisfactory grade may be considered at the discretion of the Dean. Credit transfer benefits: students who have earned credits at other institutions may be able to apply them toward their degree, helping reduce overall tuition costs and time to completion. Credit transfer is subject to evaluation and approval. For full details, refer to the Graduate School transfer of credit FAQ and Transfer Credits Policy
Does financial aid cover online doctorate programs?
Absolutely. Online doctoral students can access the same financial aid resources as campus-based students, such as scholarships and tuition assistance programs. Speak with a dedicated financial aid officer to explore all available financial aid and funding options.
What does the applied doctoral project involve?
The applied doctoral project represents the capstone of your doctoral journey. You identify a significant issue within the criminal justice field, apply research methodologies and theoretical knowledge, and develop evidence-based solutions. This project demonstrates your ability to conduct rigorous research, apply criminological theory, and contribute meaningful scholarship to criminal justice practices and policies.
Do I need a master's degree to apply?
Yes. The criminal justice program requirements specify that students enter with a master’s degree from an accredited institution. This foundational knowledge prepares you for the advanced coursework in criminological theory, research design, and policy analysis covered in the DCJ program.
How long does the program take to complete?
Most doctoral students complete the degree program in 20 to 32 months, depending on transfer credits, course load, and scheduling. The program requires 44 credit hours, including foundation courses, research courses, and applied doctoral project courses. Your educational goals and professional commitments influence your specific timeline.
What makes Keiser's faculty different?
Faculty members bring extensive experience from law enforcement agencies, criminal justice organizations, homeland security positions, and research roles. They serve as mentors throughout your doctoral journey, providing practical insights alongside theoretical knowledge. Their backgrounds span local law enforcement, federal agencies, correctional facilities, and academic research, giving you diverse perspectives on the criminal justice field.
Ready to get started?
Apply to Doctor of Criminal Justice at Port St. Lucie Campus.
Doctor of Criminal Justice