Bachelor's Degree
Online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice (BA)
Examine how criminal justice professionals prevent and respond to crime. This bachelor’s degree program at American Military University (AMU) provides a broad overview of the structures and processes that shape the U.S. justice system.
Program Overview
This Bachelor of Arts program explores how law enforcement agencies, courts, and corrections facilities protect public safety. Courses are led by faculty members that include scholar-practitioners with professional backgrounds in public safety, corrections, government organizations, the military, and the private sector.
Students deepen their understanding of:
- U.S. law enforcement
- Criminology
- Investigations
- Criminal law
- Juvenile justice issues
- Criminal behavior
- Corrections and incarceration
AMU’s curriculum addresses the vast array of ethical challenges within the criminal justice field. Students sharpen their critical-thinking skills as they consider the complex relationships between police, prosecutors, and their communities.
The University also offers a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice that may be well-suited to students interested in learning about digital forensics.
Note: This degree program is not designed to meet the educational requirements for professional licensure or certification in any country, state, province or other jurisdiction. This program has not been approved by any state professional licensing body and does not lead to any state-issued professional licensure.
Choose a Degree Concentration for Your Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice
Students can choose from one of several concentration tracks that combine specialized criminal justice courses to dive deeper into the discipline. Each track prioritizes career-readiness for current and prospective public safety professionals.
Select a concentration to learn more.
About the Concentration
This general concentration allows you to select from many different concentration courses offered within this program, enabling you to create your own focused area of study.
Program Objectives
About the Concentration
Analyzes policy and operational strategies used to ensure the security of border and coastal access including defensive measures to protect ports from disruption. Explores laws and doctrines governing navigation and shipping, as well as the law of the sea. Looks at chemical, biological, and radiological classification and response to incidents involving hazardous materials.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Analyze various policy and operational strategies used to ensure the security of border and coastal access.
- Examine ports to trade and their vulnerability to disruption and attack, as well as defensive measures to protect ports from disruption.
- Identify chemical, biological, and radiological bases for classification of, and emergency response to incidents involving, hazardous material.
- Assess the impact of terrorism on U.S. national security.
- Explore the laws and doctrines governing navigation and shipping, as well as the law of the sea.
About the Concentration
Provides a solid foundation in the leadership process and its benefits to law enforcement, including identifying one’s personal style, judging the value of an array of leadership roles, and making socially responsible decisions. Topics include gender roles in leadership, conflict resolution, human resource innovation in the workplace, budgeting, and managing an organization during a paradigm shift.
Program Objectives
Upon successful completion of this concentration, the student will be able to:
- Identify your personal leadership style and explain the benefits of your leadership style on the organization.
- Analyze necessary organizational leadership skills in given situations and prepare a plan of action for improving organizational leadership abilities.
- Contrast the value of an array of leadership roles.
- Develop critical thinking skills about decisions in a manner that is socially responsible and responsive.
- Demonstrate a persuasive and collaborative approach which encourages a teaming environment.
- Employ organizational accountability to build innovative organizations that respond to ever changing environments.
Discover How This Criminal Justice Degree Can Help You Pursue Your Goals
This online criminal justice degree program examines how criminal law and constitutional rights shape the roles of police agencies, courts, and corrections. Courses explore the criminological theories and investigative methods that today’s public safety personnel employ, and learners consider the ethical challenges of combating crime.
Students also:
- Learn the similarities and differences among local, state, and federal criminal justice components while gaining an international perspective
- Explore parts and components of the U.S. justice system from political and public administration standpoints
- Learn how various prevailing theories apply to elements within the criminal justice system
- Design research that, if executed, would add to the body of knowledge in the criminal justice profession
- Probe how standards of evidence and law impact criminal justice system segments and professionals
AMU’s online program examines the principles and professional standards that guide law enforcement and public safety operations. Students also explore the leading research on criminal behavior and how findings influence the objectives of the U.S. justice system.
Graduates may have potential career opportunities as:
- Military police or law enforcement personnel, who enforce laws, conduct investigations, and maintain order on military installations or in operational environments
- Federal law enforcement officers, who may support investigations and enforcement activities within federal agencies
- Intelligence or security analysts, who analyze information related to security threats, criminal activity, and risk to support operational decision-making
- Corrections or detention supervisors, who oversee correctional facility operations, supervise personnel, and support compliance with policies and safety standards
AMU’s online courses examine how criminal law, constitutional rights, and criminological theory shape the justice system today. Coursework builds practical skills as students explore the real-world challenges that public safety personnel must navigate.
Learners will also demonstrate the ability to:
- Analyze criminal justice systems and policies with an emphasis on public safety, security, and service-oriented missions
- Apply criminological theory to assess threats, misconduct, and crime prevention strategies in military, local, state, and federal environments
- Interpret constitutional and federal legal principles that influence justice and security operations
- Design applied research to support decision-making in law enforcement, security, and/or command settings
- Demonstrate ethical leadership and integrity aligned with military values and chain-of-command expectations
- Communicate findings and recommendations using clear, structured formats appropriate for operational and professional reporting
“ AMU’s criminal justice courses are designed to allow the student to discover their own answers through developing information literacy skills and positive structured feedback to spark original critical thinking on the problems facing the American criminal justice system. ”
Explore AMU’s Curriculum for This Online Criminal Justice Program
Create New Connections While You Pursue Your Criminal Justice Degree Online at AMU
Build meaningful connections with like-minded classmates, alumni, and faculty members who share your interest in criminal justice. AMU offers a range of online student clubs and communities, including groups for servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses. Aspiring criminal justice professionals may be especially interested in the University’s Criminology Club, Alpha Phi Sigma Honor Society, OSINT Club, and Anti-Human Trafficking Club.
Explore more student groups and discover other ways to get involved when you pursue your online degree at AMU.
Signature Skills: A Learning Revolution
Integrated into our student curriculum, these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence. The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.
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Encouraging students to use current technologies, critically evaluate emerging tools, and responsibly engage with digital and AI systems.
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Strengthening the ability in all students to analyze information objectively, question assumptions, explore alternatives, and develop skills essential for navigating continual change.
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Helping students thrive in dynamic workplaces by reinforcing adaptability, resilience, innovation, and self-awareness.
Welcome to a learning revolution.
APUS signature skills.
Digital literacy, critical thinking, a growth mindset entwine themselves around the student journey.
They’re in everything we do!
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Meant to inform our approach to you, and your ability to thrive beyond the classroom,
these signature skills teach you how to move through the world with confidence.
The road to success is paved with signature skills learned at APUS.
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AMU is here to support your student journey
Your mission matters, but so does your well-being. That's why we provide supportive resources to help you stay ready for what’s next.
• Career Coaching• 24/7 Mental Health Support
• Admissions & Advising Support
• Student Life
CAREER COACHING
Whether you’re transitioning from military to civilian life or pursuing advancement within your branch of service, AMU’s Career Services are here to help. Our coach-guided experiences empower you to translate your military skills into new opportunities, develop your professional strengths, and chart a course to your next mission.
Learn More24/7 MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORT
Resilience is critical to mission success, and that starts with your mental health. AMU offers confidential, flexible, 24/7 access to support resources to help you manage stress, find balance, and stay mission-ready.
Learn MoreADMISSIONS & ADVISING SUPPORT
We understand the unique needs of military students. That’s why our admissions and advising teams provide personalized guidance from day one, helping you navigate enrollment, maximize your benefits, and plan your academic journey around your service commitments. We’re here to help you succeed wherever duty calls.
Learn MoreSTUDENT LIFE
At AMU, you’ll be part of a strong, service-minded community that understands your goals and values. Through student organizations like the Student Veterans of America (SVA) and access to the university directory through ecampus, you’ll connect with peers and mentors who can help you build your professional network and lifelong camaraderie.
Learn MoreAMU’s Online Criminal Justice Degree Program Provides an Affordable Education
American Military University is committed to providing students with high-quality, affordable online education. Low-cost tuition rates, University grants, and our generous transfer credit policy help reduce out-of-pocket costs for students pursuing this criminal justice degree.
- $0 Application Fee
- $0 Textbooks & Ebooks
- $0 Transfer Credit Evaluation
Earning a degree is a valuable investment, but it needs to fit into your budget. Our tuition estimator can help you estimate your tuition and fees, so you can plan a manageable path to your educational goals. For full details, please refer to the financial aid cost of attendance (COA). This estimate does not include course materials, supplies, equipment, software and other expenses such as lab fees. You may be eligible for partnership grants through your employer. Speak with your admissions representative for more details.
AMU Removes Barriers
Quality Education Shouldn't Break the Bank
We offer special rates and grants for eligible students and limit fees to help keep the cost of higher education within reach. Find out how you can save on tuition expenses with our:
- Transfer Credits
- Financial Aid
- Private Loans & Scholarships
- Military & Veteran Benefits
Transfer Credits
AMU recognizes the value of your service and experience. Our generous transfer credit policy ensures that you get credit for prior college coursework, military education and training, exams, and certifications so you can save time, keep costs low, and stay focused on your education mission.
Learn MoreFinancial Aid
In addition to special rates and grants for military servicemembers, veterans, and their families, we also participate in federal financial aid programs for those who qualify. Our Financial Aid Office team can help ensure you have the support you need.
Learn MorePrivate Loans & Scholarships
AMU students may explore private education loans or scholarship options to supplement their education funding. Before pursuing these options, you should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to learn about your eligibility. We encourage all borrowers to research their choices, review interest rates and repayment terms, and make an informed decision that aligns with their goals.
Learn MoreMilitary & Veteran Benefits
As a leader in higher education for the nation’s military and a top choice for veterans using education benefits, AMU proudly accepts Tuition Assistance (TA) and other military education benefits. Our experienced Military Tuition Assistance team can help you understand your eligibility, apply your benefits, and make the most out of your available resources.
Learn MoreApply to AMU's Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Criminal Justice Today
This bachelor's degree program is designed to accommodate working adults and active-duty servicemembers. All courses are held online. Students may participate in class discussions, submit weekly assignments, and access course materials from anywhere with an internet connection. Courses start monthly, have no set login times, and run for 8 to 16 weeks. The University also has rolling admissions and welcomes new students to this criminal justice program all throughout the year.
Review our admission requirements and submit your application today.
- No Entrance Exams No SAT® or ACT®4 required for undergraduate programs
- No Application Fee For undergraduate courses
- Courses Start Monthly Enroll now, start next month
- All AMU undergraduate programs require a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent (i.e., GED). Please read all undergraduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation.
- There is no fee to complete the AMU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.
Learn More About AMU’s Criminal Justice Degree Program
Students pursuing a criminal justice degree will gain foundational knowledge of how police, courts, and corrections operate within our country. Still, certain career paths may require additional education.
For example, many law enforcement roles require state-certified training, including police academy and crisis intervention programs. Corrections and probation officers require officer certification and risk assessment training. Some court and legal careers require passing law school, paralegal, or court clerk certification. Federal agencies such as the FBI and the CIA also demand specialized training.
Yes, eligible students may transfer up to 90 credits from prior education, military service, and/or professional experience. Transferring outside credit may help satisfy some general education requirements and lead to faster degree completion.
A transfer credit evaluation is available at no cost, and preliminary results may be provided in as little as 2 to 3 days. AMU may accept transfer credits for:
- Previously completed education
- Public safety training and education
- Military service and education
- Government training
- Professional training
- Credit earned through College Level Examination Program (CLEP) or DSST (formerly DANTES Subject Standardized Tests)6
Please refer to the University’s transfer credit policy webpage for additional information.
Both bachelor’s degrees provide foundational knowledge of the criminal justice field. The Bachelor of Arts program focuses on leadership, policy, and the legal or organizational factors that influence decision-making in the U.S. justice system. The Bachelor of Science emphasizes research methods, forensic science, and digital investigations.
The best choice depends on your academic interests and career goals.
Related Programs
American Military University offers more than 200 career-relevant degree and certificate programs online.
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The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.
The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.
See all military student benefits.
