Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Learn to Empower Your Community
About the Online B.S. in Criminal Justice Program ¶
The field of criminal justice has reached a tipping point. In today’s society, there is a rare opportunity for transformational leaders to imagine and implement solutions that work for all populations — which is exactly what an online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice degree from Athens State University prepares you to do.
Criminal justice is a dynamic, far-reaching field that touches every corner of our society. No matter your unique goals, the online B.S. in Criminal Justice program provides an affordable, flexible, and supportive learning environment for you to get the skills you need to make an impact and land a rewarding role. The program’s ethics-focused curriculum and experiential learning opportunities empower you to move from the classroom to your career seamlessly — our graduates work for organizations such as the FBI, the CIA, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Redstone Arsenal, and more.
Dedicated people like you transfer to Athens State for their online B.S. in Criminal Justice because we know what it takes to get you across the finish line. How will you improve the criminal justice system with your degree? We can’t wait to find out.
What You’ll Learn
Our immersive curriculum prepares you to make an immediate impact in criminal justice. During your time in the online B.S. in Criminal Justice program, you’ll get:
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A holistic understanding of how subfields such as law enforcement, criminology, criminal law, justice process, corrections, and juvenile delinquency come together to drive solutions
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Hands-on internships and experiential learning opportunities that provide real-world experience
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A strong foundation in ethical practice and policymaking to create a better system that supports all populations
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The oral, written, and interpersonal skills to effectively communicate across contexts and personnel
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An opportunity to select the Juvenile Justice Studies degree option where you’ll study juveniles in regard to delinquency, justice, advocacy, prevention, intervention, and research.
Affordable Tuition
Cost per credit for the online bachelor’s in Criminal Justice is just $241 plus fees.
Athens State boasts one of the most affordable tuition rates among state universities in Alabama and Tennessee.
Athens State offers a flexible tuition payment plan that works with your budget.
Support You Can Count On
Career-Focused
83% of Athens State alumni are employed following graduation — outperforming average national employment rates.*
Experienced Faculty
Our B.S. in Criminal Justice faculty members have robust firsthand experience in the field, allowing you to learn from people who know the challenges you’ll face.
Small Classes
Small class sizes — typically around 18 students — deliver a personalized learning experience.
Real-World Learning
Internships and experiential learning opportunities allow you to work with diverse populations in contexts of your choosing before entering the workforce.
Flexible
Our online bachelor’s degrees are designed with flexibility at the forefront, so students can balance their studies with their busy lives.
Legacy
Founded in 1822, Athens State University is the oldest continuously operating institution of higher education in Alabama, with 200 years of academic excellence.
*according to a 2019-20 Alabama economic impact study by Emsi Burning Glass
How to Apply
Students seeking admission to the the on-campus, hybrid, or online B.S. in Criminal Justice program must have:
- At least 36 transferable credit hours from a regionally accredited institution(s) prior to term of admission
- A minimum 2.0 cumulative transfer GPA on a 4.0 scale
- 15 credit hours applicable to Athens State general education requirements
- Eligibility to return to previously attended colleges or universities
Have questions about the eligibility of your transfer credits? Feel free to reach out to our admissions team at admissions@online.athens.edu or (256) 252‑3216.
Embark on a Career of Impact
The criminal justice field is expected to grow by 7% between 2020 and 2030, meaning that a variety of rewarding careers may be available to you. This degree helps prepare you for roles such as*:
Magistrate Judge
Median Annual Salary: $148,030
Private Investigator
Median Annual Salary: $59,380
Paralegal
Median Annual Salary: $56,230
Correctional Officer
Median Annual Salary: $47,920
Court Clerk
Median Annual Salary: $44,610
Mental Health Counselor
Median Annual Salary: $48,520
*salary statistics provided by the u.s. bureau of labor statistics
Our Awards
College Factual
Honorable mention in “Best Bachelor’s Degree Colleges for Overall Value,” making us a top 20% school in the nation for overall value
Best Colleges
Ranked as a Top 5 online college in Alabama
College Factual
Top 5% nationwide — “Top Ranked Education for Veterans”
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