Penn State's online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program 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's degree in criminal justice is a 120-credit program. To earn this degree, you must successfully complete:
- 24 credits of prescribed courses
- 3–4 credits of additional major requirements
- 12 credits of additional upper-level criminal justice courses
- 21 credits of supporting courses and related areas
- 45 credits of General Education courses
- A number of credits in elective courses dependent on the amount needed to reach 120 credits
The degree's 24 credits of prescribed 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.
Deputy Sheriff's Training and Act 120 Program
Students with ACT 120, Pennsylvania State Police, or Municipal Police Training transcripts may receive up to 16.5 credits for the following courses:
CRIMJ 100: Introduction to Criminal Justice (3 credits)
CRIMJ 220: Courts and the Prosecution Process (3 credits)
CRIMJ 210: Policing in America (3 credits)
CAS 203: Interpersonal Communication (3 credits)
KINES 067: Physical Conditioning (1.5 credits)
NURS 203: First Aid and CPR (3.0 credits)
Training from other states will be reviewed upon request.
Use the Course List to find course information, including course descriptions and prerequisites.