Criminal Justice (AS)

Associate Degree
Tallahassee
Tallahassee, FL
Apply for theStart Date
Accreditation
SACSCOC
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Program Duration
Keiser University publishes this program as approximately 20 months and 60 credit hours.
Modality
Keiser University offers this program on campus.
Cost
Keiser University charges $12,408 per 16-week semester at full-time load and publishes no total for this program.
Application Fee
A one-time application fee of $55 is charged on enrollment, along with a one-time registration fee of $145.
Financial Aid
Keiser University is eligible to participate in Federal Title IV financial aid programs, including grants and federal student loans.

Criminal Justice (AS) is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Tallahassee, FL. The program takes 22 months to complete.

Program Overview

Keiser University’s Associate of Science degree in Criminal Justice offers students a strong foundation in the principles, procedures, and practices of the American criminal justice system. The program examines key areas such as criminal behavior, law enforcement organization and administration, juvenile systems, legal doctrines, and fundamentals of criminal investigations.
 
Through classroom instruction and hands-on learning experiences, students gain practical skills that prepare them to apply their knowledge in real-world criminal justice settings. Graduates equip themselves to pursue entry-level positions in law enforcement, corrections, private security, or related fields and to continue their studies toward a bachelor’s degree.
 
The program promotes law enforcement careers in the state of Florida through a partnership with local police academies and public safety institutes. Students complete Law Enforcement Academy Externships that provide direct exposure to police departments and the criminal justice profession.

Request More Info Program Mission

The mission of Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Criminal Justice with a Law Enforcement Concentration is to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for entry-level positions in law enforcement. Through a blend of theoretical instruction and practical application, the program covers areas such as criminal behavior patterns, law enforcement organizations, juvenile justice systems, legal principles and doctrines, and the fundamentals of criminal investigations. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of a career in the criminal justice field.

Program Goals
  1. To develop students’ understanding of the American Criminal Justice System.
  2. To understand the history of the criminal justice system, including its evolution and its impact on society.
  3. Demonstrate a capacity to think critically about issues involving the criminal justice system.
  4. To develop skills that are necessary for careers in criminal justice and related fields and have students uphold the ethical standard of criminal justice professionals.
Prerequisites

None.

Program Highlights
  • Students complete criminal justice major courses, including Law Enforcement Academy Externships. These externships connect students with police academies and provide hands-on law enforcement training.
  • General education courses develop critical thinking, research methods, and communication skills while criminal justice courses cover criminology, criminal law, criminal investigations, corrections, juvenile justice, and law enforcement procedures.
  • Students complete coursework in areas such as evidence collection, physical evidence handling, legal system procedures, and administrative responsibilities commonly associated with law enforcement careers.
  • College credit earned through this associate degree program transfers to Keiser University’s bachelor’s degree programs in criminal justice, allowing students to continue their education and pursue advanced career opportunities.
Estimated Student Costs

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.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Criminal Justice prepare for entry-level positions across the justice system. This criminal justice program supports students pursuing careers in law enforcement agencies, corrections facilities, private security, homeland security, and forensic science. The degree program provides practical skills in criminal investigation, evidence collection, and understanding the court system while preparing students for continued education toward a bachelor’s degree.

Career Pathways in Criminal Justice

  • Police officer
  • Corrections officer
  • Crime scene technician
  • Private investigator
  • Probation officer
  • Victim advocate
  • Private detective
  • Crime scene investigator
  • Law enforcement officer
  • Forensic science technician
  • Court security officer Paralegal

Are You Already in Law Enforcement?

Certified Police and Correctional Officers – Keiser University will accept up to 15 credit hours of law enforcement academy and 12 credit hours of correctional officer training toward any of our Criminal Justice degrees. Must be employed as law enforcement or correctional officer and the transfer credit will be evaluated by the dean at the campus

Why Choose Keiser University

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Criminal Justice Career

  • Criminal investigation techniques
  • Understanding of criminal law and legal procedures
  • Legal document preparation
  • Communication skills for law enforcement professionals
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
  • Knowledge of the court system and trial process
  • Understanding of corrections and juvenile justice
  • Physical evidence handling protocols
  • Administrative skills for law enforcement settings
  • Research methods for criminal justice
  • Writing skills for reports and legal documents

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, 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 Info

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a criminal justice degree online at Keiser University?

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice with Law Enforcement concentration requires on-campus attendance due to the Law Enforcement Academy Externships and hands-on training components. However, Keiser University offers online options for the Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice and other criminal justice degree programs at the bachelor’s and master’s levels.

What's the difference between the AS and AA in Criminal Justice?

The Associate of Science (AS) includes 66 credit hours with Law Enforcement Academy Externships (18 credit hours total) and focuses on preparing students for direct entry into law enforcement careers. The Associate of Arts (AA) includes 60 credit hours without externships and serves students planning to transfer to a bachelor’s degree program. Both provide strong foundations in the criminal justice system.

What careers can I pursue with this degree?

Graduates pursue entry-level positions as police officers (after completing police academy requirements), corrections officers, crime scene technicians, victim advocates, private investigators, and court security officers. The degree also prepares students for continued education toward a bachelor’s degree for expanded career opportunities.

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?

Yes, financial aid is available to students pursuing an online or on-campus degree including grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.

Can you become a police officer with this degree?

Yes. A criminal justice degree from Keiser University provides foundational knowledge in criminal law, law enforcement procedures, and the justice system needed to pursue careers as a police officer. While you still need to complete police academy training through your hiring agency, this degree program helps fulfill education requirements and prepares you for the application process. The Law Enforcement Academy Externships provide direct exposure to police departments and law enforcement training.

How long does it take to complete this program?

The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice typically takes approximately 24 months to complete when attending full-time. Actual completion time varies based on factors like course load, transfer credits, and individual scheduling needs.

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 make up the criminal justice major?

The criminal justice major courses include Criminology, Introduction to Criminal Justice, Introduction to Corrections, Introduction to Law Enforcement, Introduction to Juvenile Procedures, Writing and Communications for CJ Professionals, Criminal Law, Criminal Investigations, and Law Enforcement Academy Externship courses. These courses examine the criminal justice system, criminal behavior, law enforcement organizations, and investigative procedures.

What do the Law Enforcement Academy Externships involve?

Law Enforcement Academy Externships provide hands-on training at police academies and public safety institutes through Keiser’s partnerships in Florida. These externship courses allow students to gain practical experience in law enforcement procedures, physical training, legal protocols, and police department operations while completing their associate degree program.

Can I continue to a bachelor's degree after completing this program?

Yes. The Associate of Science in Criminal Justice transfers to Keiser University’s bachelor’s degree programs in criminal justice and related fields. Many students use this associate degree as a stepping stone toward a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice or other bachelor’s degree programs that expand career opportunities in the criminal justice field.

Students Testimonials

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
Heather S
Keiser University Criminal Justice Graduate

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.
Wayne W.
Keiser University Criminal Justice graduate

Tom Buchanan, a military veteran and nursing student, says Keiser helped him transition into a meaningful healthcare career where he could continue serving his community. He appreciates the strong support available to veterans, including a dedicated VA adviser who is responsive, helpful, and committed to ensuring students fully use the benefits they earned through service.

Tom Buchanan
Tom Buchanan
Keiser University Nursing Student

The environment is friendly. The instructors really actually care about how you are going to get your degree. Keiser was a great fit.

Kadeshia Rose
Kadeshia Rose
Keiser University Software Engineering Student

Keiser University has always supported me in every aspect of my life. Athletically, they have provided top-notch coaches, athletic trainers, and strength coaches who truly helped mold and build me into the player that I am today. Academically, my professors brought out the best in me and constantly made me think critically in real-world situations, and professionally, my professors truly prepared me for my current job. Every task I am given, I can think back to my time at KU and think of an assignment or discussion that I had.

Kennedy Foster
Kennedy Foster
Sports Management Graduate

I picked Keiser because, first of all, it’s a school sports management, so I knew that there would be a higher focus of that here, and I knew I could get the best education that I wanted to have if I attended.

Antigonie Sanabria
Antigonie Sanabria
Sports Management student

Being able to solve problems and try to figure out what exactly happened and try to help whoever is the victim is amazing. In a smaller classroom setting you have more time with your teacher. A lot of times you’re just a name on a paper in a bigger class but in Keiser’s smaller classes format, it’s a little more personable, and one class at a time is very helpful.

Lee Tamburro
Lee Tamburro
Crime Scene Technology student

I chose Keiser because of a good friend of mine. She graduated last year and hearing all the good things about the program really made a difference. And this is possibly the best school experience I’ve had. Your teachers know your name. They know your personality. They know what to expect of you. Honestly, they push you to be the best version of yourself.

Amya Black
Amya Black
Culinary Arts, AS degree student

Keiser University is one big giant family and I feel that I’ve I learned a lot more here than I would on a traditional campus. This university has changed my life; I’m more assertive, I am completing tasks more efficiently, and I’ve learned a whole lot about it and cyber security.

Marcus Walton
Marcus Walton
Keiser University Cybersecurity student

What I love about Keiser is the fact that there’s intimate class sizes, teachers that actually care about what you’re going to school for and they have real life experience; they’re going to be there for you throughout your journey; it’s not just you see that teacher one time and you’re done.

Haley Roberge
Haley Roberge
BS in Forensic Investigations graduate

I heard about Keiser University through a battle buddy that I was overseas with in the military. For me school was tough; the more one-on-one attention at Keiser helped me a lot and the teachers that seemed to reach out to you and care. I think that little push right there kept me dedicated. I became a gym owner because I got the skills I needed at Keiser.

Will Doyle
Will Doyle
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Graduate

Hands On, Practical Instruction. We have incredible instructors who are very knowledgeable in this field.

Alex Avila
Alex Avila
Sports Medicine & Fitness Technology Student

I chose to study at Keiser University because they offer the accelerated nursing program which I could get my BS in in 16 months. They push us to do our best and they’re very fixated on us passing all of our classes and understanding the concepts. And they really prepare us well for the NCLEX exam.

Jacvelyne Michel
Jacvelyne Michel
Keiser University Nursing Student

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay , a Cinematic Arts program graduate, has shared her positive experience. She expressed gratitude to her professors, Samantha Kountz and Jean Jacques, for their encouragement and support during her studies. Her story highlights a passion for film production and acknowledges the program’s contribution to her success.

Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Audrey Chouraqui Azoulay
Cinematic Arts program graduate

Jillian Bellis, a nursing student, says Keiser University gave her the opportunity to return to school and pursue her lifelong passion for nursing. She highlights key benefits of Keiser, including flexible pathways for adult learners and career changers, supportive programs designed for students at different life stages, and the chance to pursue meaningful, career-focused education later in life.

Jillian Bellis
Jillian Bellis
Keiser University Nursing Student

Seeing Keiser nurses out in the field – Keiser pushes out good nurses. So, I know I’m going to be prepared once I step out of the program.

Solange Mondesir
Solange Mondesir
Keiser University College of Nursing Student

Keiser University provided me with the foundation to turn ambition into action, equipping me with the discipline, purpose, and support necessary to make a lasting impact. The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology, while advancing my career as a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst for Behavioral Pedestal LLC and Spring Health ABA.

Kiefer Suau
Kiefer Suau
Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering graduate

I was an active reservist and wanted to enter nursing. Keiser University provided me with new opportunities to do much more in life.

Brian Mardy, RN
Brian Mardy, RN
Associates of Science Degree in Nursing

I learned a lot about my subject field while attending Keiser. All my teachers continually promoted success and successful thinking, and my peers helped me to a higher standard than others because they knew I could achieve more.

Gaelen Przybylowicz
Gaelen Przybylowicz
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations – Forensics Concentration Graduate

KU taught me how to thoroughly do an investigation, read a police report, and understand crime scenes and photos of crime scenes along with any other evidentiary items. I really loved the classes in our program as well as being able to focus on one class a month. It allowed me to learn more.

Christy Marek
Christy Marek
Keiser University B.S. in Law Enforcement Operations Graduate

“My experience at Keiser has been incredible, especially because of the small class sizes—they’re really catered to us and make learning more personal and engaging. As a veteran, I was worried about adjusting back to a structured routine, but the campus made that transition much easier. Overall, this campus has truly become like a family to me.”

Brandon Alexander Presley
Brandon Alexander Presley
Legal Studies Student

I cannot thank Keiser University enough for the experience and the learning opportunities I have had here. I never thought that at 20 years old, I would be halfway through my bachelor’s degree and working full-time as a medical assistant.

Sarah S.
Sarah S.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“I have had the experience of dealing with classes that accommodated my schedule of being a full-time employee as well as a full-time mother of three. The hands-on experience and the knowledge received was outstanding. I was elated by the amount of information I received in such a short period of time.”

Quondra B.
Quondra B.
Keiser University Medical Assisting Graduate

“Choosing Keiser was instrumental because they offered small class sizes and the faculty provided one-on-one time with all of the students. Being in an online program, it is essential to have someone accessible to you and the faculty was always there when we needed them. I was also impressed at the structure, organization and curriculum for the program at Keiser.”

Osmara Cailam
Osmara Cailam
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“Keiser University provided me with everything I needed for my future career as a licensed Florida Bar Attorney. While at KU I retained an Associates Degree in the Paralegal Studies Program. The Program helped me develop not only the essential skills a paralegal is required to hold but also long-term practical and professional skills.”

Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Arisnelvys Gonzalez, JD
Paralegal Studies Graduate

“The instructors at Keiser University impacted my life. They believed in my ability to become a great graphic designer, regardless of how I felt about my skills. KU helped to prepare me for the real world and got me to where I am today.”

Justin Pugh
Justin Pugh
Full Stack Engineer

“When I first enrolled, I was new to the online educational environment and nervous as to how the experience would go. Keiser University has a knack for selecting educators who are perfect for this method of instruction, which allowed me and my fellow classmates to get up to speed quickly.”

John F. Phelan
John F. Phelan
Fire Chief – Mashpee, MA

“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 Webb
Wayne Webb
Criminal Justice Graduate

“At Keiser University we’re here to help you succeed by providing the professional and academic foundation to meet your educational goals and objectives.”

Emily Emilov
Emily Emilov
Forensic Investigations Graduate

“Because of the experiences I had at Keiser, along with the contacts I made, I made great progress throughout my career already. I thoroughly enjoyed the quality of my education at KU.”

Ayden Przybylowicz
Ayden Przybylowicz
Associate of Science in Culinary Arts Graduate

“The C & I program at Keiser University is one of the best PhD programs, offering student-center learning and student-first learning. KU provided the rigor and growth I needed to be prepared for my future endeavors.”

Jennifer Kotzur
Jennifer Kotzur
Curriculum and Instruction, PhD

“I chose Keiser University because I was looking for a local University that was flexible and suited my needs as a parent and full-time RN. The weekly live interactions with the professors were a definite plus. The tuition was reasonable and less than other Universities. Keiser University’s motto, “purity, truth, wisdom” was honored by the commitment of the nursing faculty to the students.”

Marie Boone
Marie Boone
Family Nurse Practitioner, MSN

“My name is Javier Araki, and I’m in the nursing program at Keiser University. What stands out most to me is their students-first approach. Everything is centered on preparing us for the real-world demands of the field. The faculty and staff genuinely support you and help in every way they can. Because of that environment, I truly feel empowered and confident about my future in nursing.”

Javier Araque
Javier Araque
Keiser University’s College of Nursing

“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Keiser Sports Management program! Not only did I gain professional momentum to kickstart my career, I received help from professors that truly care about their students and made great friends along the way.”

Anthony Alber
Anthony Alber
KU Sport Management and Operations, MS Graduate

“My instructors weren’t interested in just teaching. They were invested in every single student. They were invested in me. I’m proud to say I went to Keiser University, if for no other reason, because of my personal and professional development my instructors brought me.”

Ryan Bushey
Ryan Bushey
Content and Media Production

“I really enjoyed the small class sizes and having an advisor at the campus who was able to guide me when I needed advice. I could take the program online, which helped tremendously as I was staying home with my children. Being able to do my schoolwork on my own timetable helped me to be accessible for my children and my husband.”

Danna Murphy
Danna Murphy
Master of Science in Nursing Graduate

“The Family Nurse Practitioner Program at Keiser University is an excellent program managed by a group of dynamic and dedicated professional educators. During my time at Keiser University, there was never a moment when I felt alone or lost. The support and guidance of my instructors were instrumental in accomplishing my professional goals and certification.”

Jane Krolewski
Jane Krolewski
Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner Graduate

“The dedicated faculty and my incredible colleagues continually challenged, inspired, and encouraged me, shaping both my personal and professional growth. With my Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering, I’ve been able to pursue meaningful contributions in public service and technology.”

Kiefer Suau
Kiefer Suau
Software Engineering Graduate

“Keiser was one of the best choices I made for culinary school but you must put in the time, show up, and listen to your chefs.“

Jada Vidal
Jada Vidal
Culinary Arts Graduate

Liska said he chose the Keiser University Fire Science program because of the professors’ real-life experiences in the field and the convenience of the one-class-at-a-time and one-class-per-month schedule. “You’ve got to find a way to balance things and Keiser was very beneficial in providing me that balance.”

Jason Liska
Jason Liska
Keiser Graduate and Lake County Fire Fighter and Paramedic

I loved that Keiser University focused on one class per month. I feel I gained a lot from this because there were no distractions from other subjects in the same period of time. I found the information for each subject was better retained this way. In addition, my professors were always available for one-on-one help which is nearly unheard of in a large university or state college.

Desiree James
Desiree James
Keiser University Diagnostic Medical Sonography Graduate

My time at Keiser gave me hands-on experience teaching golf and great mentors to look up to.

Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore
Deanna Confessore – Golf Management graduate – Keiser University

“Huge gratitude towards Keiser University, you know, I was a golf enthusiast and wanted to get into the game. And it was a perfect school that opened its doors to me, let me in, and showed me the ropes. And their guidance and education, and not to mention mentorship, even after I graduated, has really propelled me into the professional I am today.”

Jason Loomis
Jason Loomis
Executive Director at Great River Golf Club.

I’m Samuel Fernandes of Keiser University. I’m currently enrolled as a student under the animation and game design bachelors and I enjoy with my whole heart right now. I came to Keiser because it welcomes people and it was very warm and inviting. It allowed me to create the world I want. Here at Keiser, if you want to create world environments, if you want to enlist in characters, the game design program here is perfect.

Samuel Fernandes
Samuel Fernandes
Animation and Game Design student – Keiser University

“I know that when I go for a job interview and I have Keiser University on my resume that I am going to get the job.”

Ryan G
Ryan G
Culinary Arts Graduates
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Location

Tallahassee
1700 Halstead Blvd Building 2
Tallahassee, FL 32309

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 do not require specialized programmatic accreditation, the curriculum meets rigorous academic standards and prepares students for successful careers in criminal justice.

Required Courses

NameCredits
Criminal Justice Major Courses (42.0 credit hours)
Criminology3
Introduction to Criminal Justice3
Introduction to Corrections3
Introduction to Law Enforcement3
Introduction to Juvenile Procedures3
Writing and Communications for CJ Professionals3
Criminal Law3
Criminal Investigations3
Law Enforcement Academy Externship I3
Law Enforcement Academy Externship II3
Law Enforcement Academy Externship III3
Law Enforcement Academy Externship IV3
Law Enforcement Academy Externship V3
Law Enforcement Academy Externship VI3
Subtotal42
General Education Courses (24.0 credit hours)
American History Pre 18763
American History Since 18763
Political Science3
Introduction to Psychology3
Sociology3
Subtotal15
Communications (3.0 credit hours)
Speech Communications3
Subtotal3
Computers (3.0 credit hours)
Introduction to Computers3
Subtotal3
English (6.0 credit hours)
English Composition I3
English Composition II3
Subtotal6
Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours)
American Literature3
English Literature3
Contemporary World Literature3
Creative Writing3
Subtotal12
Mathematics (6.0 credit hours)
Intermediate Algebra3
Subtotal3
Natural Science (6.0 credit hours)
General Biology3
General Biology Laboratory1
Environmental Science3
Advanced Biology3
Advanced Biology Laboratory1
General Chemistry3
General Chemistry Laboratory1
Advanced Chemistry3
Advanced Chemistry Laboratory3
Subtotal21
Program Total105
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Criminal Justice (AS)
Keiser University · Tallahassee, FL