Criminal Justice, BS

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

Normal Time for Completion: Four Years

This program is offered on campus and online. 

Program courses are available in the evening. Students should consult with their advisor regarding the evening course schedule.

The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree program is carefully crafted to instill a deep-seated commitment to social justice and equity within our students, reflecting the values of fairness and inclusivity in our diverse society. Through a comprehensive curriculum, our students engage in rigorous academic study and practical training, preparing them to navigate complex challenges inherent within the criminal justice system with confidence and integrity.

The Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree is not designed to fulfill the educational requirements for any professional credential, such as a police officer certification. Post University assists in researching and providing information regarding licensure; however, each state has different requirements for such licensure outside of the required education. Such state requirements may include licensure exams, background checks, certain work experience, and more. It is the responsibility of each student to manage their own licensure process and to ensure that all requirements are met in order for the student to obtain licensure. Post University does not speak on behalf of any licensing board or body and does not guarantee licensure. Requirements for licensure are subject to change without notice. Learn about law enforcement and public safety careers through the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Undergraduate students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice (BS CRJ) program, with the approval of the Master of Public Administration (MPA) department, have the opportunity to enroll in the following MPA courses: PAD 610 , PAD 616 , or PAD 625 . Students approved to enroll in MPA courses may enroll in one MPA course each term. Qualified students will be selected on a first-come, first-serve basis. 

To be eligible for consideration, students must meet the following requirements:  

• Meet the MPA program's work experience requirements as determined by the MPA Program Chair. 
• Have a 3.25 GPA and Senior standing.
• Be enrolled as a full-time student majoring in the BS CRJ program.
• Obtain a recommendation from the Criminal Justice Program Chair.
• Submit a 500-word essay to the MPA Program Chair explaining why they want to obtain the graduate degree and should be permitted to take a course(s) in the MPA program. E.g., time to devote to a graduate-level course and interest in the field of study.
• If approved, obtain prior permission from the MPA Program Chair for each course.

Students must earn a grade of B or higher to associate to the MPA curriculum. 

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Program Outcomes

1. Leadership, Ethics, and Discretion - Students will be able to create a framework for leadership and ethics, including analysis of ethical dilemmas and the use of discretion in various criminal justice roles in policing, courts, and corrections.

2. Constitutional Principes - Students will be able to analyze and apply constitutional principles to contemporary issues which shape the foundation and inner workings of the American criminal justice system.

3. Crime Causation - Students will be able to analyze and apply the theories of crime causation to develop effective prevention and intervention strategies.

4. Research Skills and Effective Communication - Students will be able to analyze, apply, and communicate evidence-based practices in the criminal justice field.