Program Overview

Program Overview

The Criminal Justice Studies program is a unique and structured curriculum designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in the field of criminal justice. The program is offered in a cohort format, where students take classes in sequence with the same group of classmates, ensuring a smooth learning path.

Key Features

• Cohort format: Students take classes in sequence with the same group of classmates.
• Structured curriculum: Courses are taken in a set order for a smooth learning path.
• Built-in support: The program team handles enrollment and reviews student records each session.
• Flexibility: Students can keep working while earning their degree.
• Credit for Prior Learning: Students can receive credit for law enforcement or military experience.
• SFSU faculty: All courses are taught by University instructors.
• Personalized help: Students have access to a dedicated support team and online success coach.
• Full access: Students receive the same University resources as on-campus students.
• Asynchronous classes: Students can learn on their schedule with recorded lectures, discussions, and materials available at any time.

Degree Granting

The degree is granted by San Francisco State University, which is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The online degree is the same as the on-campus bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice Studies.

Program Structure

• Students take two courses during each eight-week session.
• The program is completed in about two years.
• There are two sessions in fall and spring, and one in summer.
• Students move through the program with their cohort, following the same course sequence.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to eligible students. Students can visit the financial aid page for details.

Time Commitment

Students should plan to spend about 15 to 20 hours per week on each class, including readings, assignments, and online discussions.

Transfer Credits

Students who have already taken similar courses may be able to transfer them into the program. These courses may count as electives, reducing the number of electives needed.

Credit for Prior Learning

Students with relevant training or work experience may be eligible for six units of upper-division credit, replacing two courses in the program. Additional Credit for Prior Learning may be available for significant work experience.

Instructors

The program is taught by faculty in the Department of Criminal Justice Studies at SFSU, including lecturers with field experience and assistant, associate, and full professors.

Program Format

The program is fully online and designed for students who need flexibility. All classes are asynchronous, allowing students to complete work on their own schedule.

Eligibility

Students may be eligible for the online degree completion program if they have completed at least 60 transferable semester units (or 90 quarter units) and meet other requirements.

Application Process

Admission decisions are usually made four to six weeks after the final deadline. Students' applications will be reviewed once all transcripts and required documents are received.

Graduation

Once students have completed 90 units as an undergraduate, they can apply to graduate. Students can use their Degree Progress Report (DPR) to help them through the process.