Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminal Justice
Practice compassionate advocacy, honor human dignity, and keep communities safe by earning your BA in Criminal Justice degree at Azusa Pacific University.
Why Major in Criminal Justice at APU?
Upholding an Imago Dei framework, APU’s criminal justice major empowers you for a life of service and influence.
Our degree program emphasizes hands-on learning, rigorous academic training, and real-world application. This ensures that you have the expertise and tools needed to tackle complex challenges in today’s justice system and shape the future of crime prevention, policing practices, and correctional policy.
During your time in the bachelor’s in criminal justice program, you’ll benefit from
- a mission-oriented curriculum that challenges you academically and inspires you spiritually;
- field experience that helps you apply your theoretical knowledge in real-world settings;
- dedicated faculty members who bring years of experience in the criminal justice system to your training; and
- opportunities to network with a diverse range of professionals, including law enforcement, prosecutors, probation officers, and more.
Program at a Glance
Application Deadline
At APU, we have rolling admissions. This means we accept and review applications on a continuous basis.
Program Information
- Program Units: 51
Location
What You’ll Learn
As a criminal justice major at APU, you build a strong foundation in interdisciplinary research, analytical and ethical thinking, and real-world application that prepares you to lead in today’s criminal justice systems.
While progressing through the criminal justice degree program, you learn how to
- use criminological theories to understand criminal behavior and victimization and their impact on society;
- evaluate criminal law, criminal procedure, constitutional protections, and correctional practices within the U.S. legal system;
- integrate social science research and data to inform evidence-based justice practices and decision-making;
- examine the impact of criminal justice policies and outcomes related to underserved and vulnerable populations; and
- operate from a Christian worldview by applying ethical reasoning that upholds the dignity of individuals and communities.
Get Started
Program Details
Advocate for safer societies by pursuing a BA in Criminal Justice. Through our rigorous program, you gain the skills and expertise to help reduce crime, advance police practices, and improve corrections.
Some core courses in the criminal justice program include:
- Criminal Justice, Civic Engagement, and Social Responsibility
- Police and Society
- Juvenile Justice
- American Court System
- Victimology
- Race, Ethnicity, and Crime
Students can tailor their learning through a wide range of elective options and an internship. Browse the full list of courses.
Step into your God-given calling at Azusa Pacific University. We created a straightforward undergraduate admissions process that helps you take the next step toward a purpose-filled education.
The prerequisites and required next steps for applying to APU vary depending on your student type. Select your enrollment path for more detailed admissions information:
Have questions along the way? Connect with our dedicated admissions representatives to get the support you need.
Azusa Pacific University makes a Christ-centered education affordable and accessible. To help you cover the cost of your criminal justice bachelor’s degree, we offer a 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.
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!
At APU, we’re committed to delivering the highest quality education, backed by respected accreditation and academic excellence. Azusa Pacific University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
By the Numbers
Career Outcomes for Criminal Justice Majors
Launch a purpose-filled career with a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice degree. Created to prepare you for roles across the justice system, our program empowers you for positions ranging from information security analyst and paralegal or legal assistant to private detective and law enforcement officer.
Ashley Lucas ’19 studied criminal justice at Azusa Pacific with the hope of working with juveniles and changing the criminal justice system to benefit individuals hindered by it.
Department of Criminal Justice Faculty
APU’s criminal justice faculty serve as instructors and mentors, guiding you through an intensive curriculum grounded in justice, ethics, and social responsibility.
Candice R. Williams
Associate Professor
Become a Voice of Influence at APU
Azusa Pacific University’s Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice empowers you to lead with integrity and compassion. Our program delivers hands-on training and academic formation to address complex justice challenges and protect communities.