Penn State's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice is designed to provide you with the theoretical and practical knowledge of crime control, and the skills necessary to succeed in criminal justice and related careers. This interdisciplinary approach to the problems of crime and society can enhance your ability as a problem solver in the field of criminal justice.

The bachelor of science degree in criminal justice is a 120-credit program. To earn this degree, you must successfully complete:

• 25 credits prescribed courses
• 12 credits additional upper-level criminal justice courses
• 6 credits behavioral science courses
• 15 credits in courses taken in consultation with adviser
• 45 credits General Education courses
• A number of credits in elective courses dependent on the amount needed to reach 120 credits

The degree's 28 credits of prescribed core courses and 12 credits of additional courses focus on the history, practice, and science of criminal justice. Many different course options are available to complete the program, allowing you to customize the degree to meet your specific goals.

Students with ACT 120, Pennsylvania State Police, or Municipal Police Training transcripts may receive a total of 7.5 credits for the following courses:

• KINES 067: Physical Conditioning – 1.5 credits
• CAS 203: Interpersonal Communication – 3 credits
• NURS 203: First Aid and CPR – 3 credits

View the Course List for course information, including course descriptions and prerequisites.

View the Course Schedule to see courses listed with start and end periods, registration deadlines, and semesters offered, as well as a link to sample lessons and syllabus when available, by clicking on the six-digit schedule number.