Program Overview

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice degree completion programs are offered through the School of Professional Studies. Both degrees in criminal justice are designed for students who have a strong interest in understanding how agencies and institutions function as part of the criminal justice system. Graduates can help meet the strong employment demand in this critical sector.

Program Formats

This is a 100% online degree-completion program through the Edwards Campus, and a traditional in-person degree program for students on the Lawrence campus.

Career Outlook

Graduates with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice are well positioned for careers in roles as police officers, detectives, victim advocates, re-entry specialists, crime and intelligence analysts, federal agents, community coordinators, private investigators, probation/intensive supervision officers, criminal prosecutors or defense attorneys, juvenile officers, evidence technicians, security specialists, victim witness coordinators, crime prevention specialists, dispatchers, and more.

Potential Careers

• Law enforcement officers: Responds to emergency and nonemergency calls for help. Patrols assigned areas, directs traffic, searches for records and warrants, obtains and serves arrest warrants.
• Corrections officers: Maintains order and keeps rules in jails and prisons. Monitors inmate activities, supervises work duties, supports prison activities, and conducts searches.
• Intelligence analysts: Evaluates and assesses gathered information, discovers and correlates intelligence across tools, and performs duties relating to national security and foreign affairs.
• Crime scene investigator (CSI): Collect and preserves evidence from crime scenes for forensic analysis.
• Criminal prosecutor or defense attorney: Prosecutes or represents individuals accused of crimes in court, ensuring their legal rights are protected. (NOTE: requires law degree)
• Federal agent: Protects national security through counterterrorism, drug and organized crime investigations, immigration enforcement, and disaster response.
• Victim advocacy and support: Supports individuals involved in the justice system, bridging the gap between the justice system and social services.

Program Snapshot

A snapshot of overall growth and jobs availability in the field of criminal justice.

Degree Statistics

• Median annual income: $66,800
• Job growth: +7.9%
• Current jobs in the U.S. (2024): 2.92 million
• Annual job openings: 330,202
• Top employers include FBI, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Elevance Health, Deloitte, Citigroup, Amazon.
• Top skills listed in job postings: management, communications, leadership, planning, and operations.

Admissions

Degree-seeking students must follow the admission process of their program.

Academics

Learn about the degrees and certificates offered.

Resources

Helpful links and program information.