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Criminal Justice Major

Study Criminal Justice at Azusa Pacific University

You’ll graduate equipped to enter a growing field, prepared for positions ranging from information security analyst, paralegal and legal assistant to private detective, gaming surveillance officer, and law enforcement officers. We’ll help you learn in real-world contexts through local prison tours, at-risk youth volunteering, and internships with local police departments, courts, and law offices. You’ll hear from professionals in the field at different stages of their careers. Ultimately you’ll be prepared to make society safer by learning the methods of reducing crime, advanced police practices, and improving prison, jail, and parole policies.

Program at a Glance

The School of Behavioral Sciences equips students for compassionate leadership in fields like physical therapy, social work, and psychology, guided by experienced faculty and hands-on learning.

Upcoming Events

APU One Day

  • Friday, May 9, 2026
  • Saturday, June 13, 2026
  • Saturday, July 11, 2026

Application Deadline

We are rolling admission.

Apply Now

Program Information

  • Program Units: 51

Location

  • Azusa (Main Campus)
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Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School

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Gain Hands-on Experience

  • Critique how major components of the justice system respond to crime, criminals, and victims.
  • Use data and social science research to respond to contemporary criminal justice systems.
  • Illustrate ways in which social inequalities are linked to criminal justice systems.
  • Demonstrate a Christian worldview in recognizing, understanding, and applying ethical reasoning skills.

By the Numbers

#1 APU was ranked as the top Christian college in California in The Wall Street Journal’s 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S.
10 :1 Student-to-faculty ratio
100 % of incoming students receive financial aid

Get Started

ashley lucas smiling

Ashley Lucas ’19 studied Criminal Justice at Azusa Pacific with hopes of working with juveniles changing the criminal justice system to benefit individuals hindered by it.

Program Details

You’ll analyze methods of reducing crime; advance police practices; improve prison, jail, and parole policies; and make society safer.

Browse the tabs below—if you have questions, visit the Student Services Center page, and we’ll make sure you get the info you need.

General Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Select an option below:

At Azusa Pacific University, we’re committed to making your bachelor’s degree in psychology affordable. That’s why APU provides a comprehensive range of financial aid options, including federal loans, state grants, fellowships, and scholarships.

For more information, contact the Student Services Center at (626) 815-2020.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are considered gift aid, meaning they do not require repayment. These awards may come from federal, state, institutional, or private sources. Scholarships are often merit-based and awarded for academic achievement, leadership, or other demonstrated talents.

While APU does award scholarships, you can also find external scholarship opportunities through websites such as Finaid and Fastweb. Contact the Student Services Center about scholarships offered through APU departments or local organizations.

Student Employment

Along with gift aid and student loans, you can apply for on-campus student employment opportunities to earn additional income to pay for education-related expenses. As an APU student, you can also find work off campus in the surrounding community.

Military and Veterans Benefits

If you are a veteran, serve in the military, or qualify as a spouse or dependent, you may access financial assistance that helps cover the cost of tuition, housing, and books. As a Yellow Ribbon and Military Friendly School, APU offers the support and flexibility needed to help you complete your bachelor’s degree in psychology.

Net Price Calculator

We’re committed to helping you understand the value of the APU experience early in the college search process. Once you’ve explored the financial aid opportunities available, take the next step by estimating your cost to attend. The Net Price Calculator provides a personalized estimate based on the information you share, so you can start planning today!

Calculate Net Price

To view specific requirements and coursework information, visit the current academic catalog:

Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

Career Outlook and Outcomes

Featured Faculty

Candice R. Williams

Candice R. Williams

Associate Professor

student talking to police man during class

Criminal Justice Major: Integrating Christian Faith into Your Studies

APU gives you a unique opportunity to integrate your faith into the criminal justice major, where you’ll explore some of society’s most pressing challenges.

Note: This information is current for the 2025-26 academic year, but all stated academic information is subject to change. Refer to the current academic catalog for more information.

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