Criminal Justice Bachelor's Degrees Online

Two pathways. Choose the degree that fits your career goals.

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Complete the form below to learn more about our online programs and how to get started.

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At a Glance

OU Online offers two distinct Criminal Justice bachelor’s degrees: the BS in Criminal Justice and the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership. Both programs are fully online and designed for students with prior college credit. They prepare you for careers in law enforcement, criminology, and justice administration while developing leadership, analytical, and professional skills. Eligibility and tuition vary based on your academic history and transfer credits.

Admission requirements:

BS in Criminal Justice (24+ transferable credit hours): Minimum 24 letter-graded credit hours and a 2.0 GPA
BS in Interdisciplinary Studies with a major in Criminal Justice Leadership (60+ transferable credit hours): Minimum 60 letter-graded credit hours, 2.0 GPA, and age 25 or older

An enrollment coach will help determine the pathway that best fits your academic history.

100% Online

Time to Complete:

12 to 18+ Months

Credit Hours:

120

Time Commitment:

10 to 20 hours weekly

start dates

Fall, Spring, & Summer

cost

Tuition for the BS in Criminal Justice is $550 per credit hour. Books and additional materials are not included.

Tuition for the BS in Interdisciplinary Studies – Criminal Justice is $515 per credit hour. Books and additional materials are not included.

YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

Complete the form below to learn more about our online programs and how to get started.

About Criminal Justice Degrees at OU Online

OU Online offers two distinct bachelor’s degrees in Criminal Justice designed for students who have already begun their college journey and are ready to advance their career in a flexible, fully online format. Both programs emphasize criminal justice knowledge, leadership development, and practical skills that prepare graduates for careers in law enforcement, corrections, and justice administration.

Students in either program learn to analyze criminal behavior, apply legal and ethical frameworks, and make evidence-based decisions in complex justice settings. The curriculum blends theoretical foundations with practical application, preparing graduates for roles in policing, investigative services, probation and parole, and leadership positions within public and private justice organizations.

While the pathways differ in eligibility and tuition structure, they share a common commitment to academic excellence, student support, and flexible online delivery that allows working professionals to balance studies with career and personal responsibilities.

Criminal Justice: Transform Your Career in Law and Leadership

The Criminal Justice degrees at OU Online prepare graduates for careers where law enforcement knowledge, critical thinking, and leadership skills drive success. Both pathways equip students to handle complex justice challenges while developing transferable skills in communication, analysis, and decision-making. Careers you can pursue with a Criminal Justice degree:

Police officer / law enforcement professional
Correctional services specialist
Emergency management coordinator
Leadership roles in public safety, government, or nonprofit organizations

Probation or parole officer
Crime analyst
Security or risk management professional

These roles span local, state, and federal agencies, private security firms, nonprofit organizations, and community services, reflecting the versatility and applicability of criminal justice expertise in today’s professional landscape.

Industry Insights: Criminal Justice Careers Outlook

Professionals with knowledge of criminal justice, leadership, and analytical skills are in high demand across law enforcement, corrections, and public safety sectors. OU Online prepares graduates to enter the workforce with confidence, equipped to make ethical decisions, manage teams, and apply evidence-based strategies in justice-related roles.

Median Pay: $67,600 for police and detectives; $62,900 for probation and correctional officers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data; individual earnings vary by role, industry, location, and experience. Program completion does not guarantee specific salary or employment outcomes.)nce. Program completion does not guarantee specific salary or employment outcomes.)
Job Outlook: Employment in law enforcement, corrections, and protective services is projected to grow at a pace consistent with ongoing demand through 2033.
Job Opportunities: Graduates can pursue opportunities in policing, probation and parole, corrections, crime analysis, emergency management, corporate security, and public safety leadership roles.

The median pay figures reflect earnings for professionals working in these occupations and may represent mid-career compensation. Entry-level salaries vary based on role, employer, experience, and geographic location.

As communities and organizations navigate complex safety and justice challenges, the need for adaptable, ethical, and leadership-minded criminal justice professionals continues to grow. Graduates of OU Online’s Criminal Justice programs are prepared to contribute effectively in public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Program Outcomes: Criminal Justice Skills That Make an Impact

OU Online’s Criminal Justice programs build skills that prepare graduates for meaningful careers in law enforcement, corrections, public safety, and justice administration. Students gain practical knowledge and leadership capabilities that translate directly to professional success.

Graduates will be able to:

Apply ethical decision-making and critical thinking in justice-related contexts
Develop leadership and supervisory skills for law enforcement and public safety roles
Strengthen communication, collaboration, and conflict resolution abilities
Analyze and apply criminal justice policies and procedures to real-world situations
Use evidence-based strategies to address community safety and organizational challenges
Prepare for roles that require problem-solving, risk assessment, and operational oversight

Criminal justice skills are highly valued across public, private, and nonprofit sectors, giving graduates the expertise needed to lead teams, manage programs, and contribute to safer communities.

Ready to take the next step?
Schedule a one-on-one call with an OU Online enrollment coach to get personalized guidance, ask questions, and explore how our programs can help you reach your goals.

Course Details

Course requirements vary between the BS in Criminal Justice and the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership at OU Online. Both programs share a core set of courses, detailed in the accordions below, that build knowledge and skills in law enforcement, criminology, and justice administration. The Criminal Justice Leadership degree also includes additional courses focused on leadership and management in justice-related organizations. OU Online’s programs empower professionals to apply criminal justice principles with confidence, ethics, and strategic insight, with asynchronous, 8-week courses designed for flexibility without sacrificing connection. An enrollment coach can provide more details about the shared courses and the additional courses specific to each degree.

Shared Core Courses

American Judicial Processes (3 credit hours)
Critical Inquiry in Interdisciplinary Studies (3)
Portfolio in Interdisciplinary Studies (3)
Police and Policing (3)

Additional BS in Criminal Justice Courses

Comparative Justice Systems (3)
The American Correctional System (3)
Theories of Criminal Behavior (3)
Juvenile Delinquency (3)
Foundation of Ethics in Liberal Studies (3)
Interdisciplinary Inquiry (3)

Additional Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership Courses

Effective Communication (3)
Leadership in Organizations (3)
Digital Literacy and Data Analysis (3)
Innovation and Problem-Solving (3)
Criminal Justice Administration (3)
Conflict Resolution (3)

Expand each section below to view more about the courses included in each program, including shared core courses and degree-specific courses.

American Judicial Processes

Credit Hours: 3

This course acquaints students of criminal justice with the overall structure of state and federal courts, including jurisdiction, sources of law, civil and criminal legal procedures from initial pleadings through appeal, substantive civil and criminal law, and policy issues about the role of the judiciary in representative government.

Portfolio in Interdisciplinary Studies

Credit Hours: 3

The practicum course for the Interdisciplinary Studies program requires students to create a comprehensive ePortfolio, which showcases their key learnings about effective communication, digital literacy, data analysis, innovative problem-solving, and their primary area of concentration.

Comparative Justice Systems

Credit Hours: 3

Examines and compares the legal and criminal justice systems of different nations. Focuses on historical, political, and social factors, and explains their influence on legal institutions and systems of justice. Examines the points of divergence between other societies and the United States in their perceived causes of crime and their differing approaches to rehabilitation and crime prevention.

Theories of Criminal Behavior

Credit Hours: 3

Provides an overview of theories of criminal behavior and current issues in criminology. Covers biological, sociological, and psychological theories of crime, along with opposing viewpoints on key topics in the field.

Foundation of Ethics in Liberal Studies

Credit Hours: 3

Provides a foundation for scholarly research and discussion of ethics. Uses an interdisciplinary approach to explore historical and philosophical perspectives on ethical decision-making.

Effective Communication

Credit Hours: 3

Students will enhance their interpersonal and professional communication skills in this course. Special attention is paid to recognizing the role of listening in communication, in addition to enhancing verbal, nonverbal, written, and presentation skills. Throughout the course, students will apply these concepts to real world situations and reflect on the impact of communication on their personal and professional lives.

Digital Literacy and Data Analysis

Credit Hours: 3

This course is designed to increase students' knowledge and application of digital and quantitative data literacy. Students will also be introduced to principles of ethical decision-making. Using applied activities and analyses, students will learn how to utilize these skills in the real world and the workplace.

Criminal Justice Administration

Credit Hours: 3

This course covers the development, proliferation, institutionalization, and goals of the components of the criminal justice system and their administration. The course will also cover the ethics of managing justice and punishment.

Critical Inquiry in Interdisciplinary Studies

Credit Hours: 3

This course requires students to locate, critique, and integrate literature/concepts to demonstrate their understanding of the foundational principles of interdisciplinary studies and their primary area of concentration. During the course, students will complete a series of assignments that will be used in the development of a comprehensive ePortfolio in the program practicum course.

Police and Policing

Credit Hours: 3

This course provides a historical perspective of policing as well as up-to-date information on policing and the issues that police deal within a post-9/11 society. The course will provide students with a basic understanding of the CSI effect, the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, and developments in community policing. The course also highlights the role of officers in society.

The American Correctional System

Credit Hours: 3

Surveys the development of corrections in the United States. Discusses the function of jails, correctional facilities, probation, parole, and private/contract corrections.

Juvenile Delinquency

Credit Hours: 3

Explores juvenile delinquency in the United States, including classic studies and current research. Examines the emergence of the juvenile justice system and trends in youth crime.

Interdisciplinary Inquiry

Credit Hours: 3

Focuses on adult learning theory, assessment of prior learning, and development of self-directed learning skills. Prepares students for academic writing and career planning.

Leadership in Organizations

Credit Hours: 3

The general purpose of this course is to learn about contemporary thinking regarding leadership in organizations and the applications of these insights for growth as a leader.

Innovation and Problem-Solving

Credit Hours: 3

This course is intended to empower students to think clearly and analytically about information and beliefs. Students will be prepared to recognize bias and common fallacies in reasoning and evaluate informational resources. An introduction to innovative thinking and creative decision-making will help position students to tackle problem-solving at the personal, academic, and career levels.

Conflict Resolution

Credit Hours: 3

A review of several contemporary theories of the nature of conflict and how best to manage it. Students examine the communication process and practice effective communication skills through practice.

Why OU Online: Built for Criminal Justice Success and Real-World Impact

OU Online’s Criminal Justice programs combine academic rigor with practical skills that prepare graduates to excel in law enforcement, corrections, public safety, and justice administration. The curriculum emphasizes ethical decision-making, leadership, and critical thinking — competencies employers value across justice-related fields.

Students learn from experienced faculty and engage in coursework that bridges theory and practice. Leadership concepts, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making are integrated throughout the curriculum so graduates can navigate complex justice environments and drive meaningful results in their careers.

Flexible online learning and personalized student support are key components of the OU Online experience. Beyond convenience, students gain access to a respected academic institution, career-focused coursework, and a network of resources designed to help them succeed from enrollment through graduation.

Faculty Expertise: Insight from Experts Who’ve Led the Way

Faculty at OU Online bring deep experience in criminal justice, law enforcement, corrections, and public safety leadership to both Criminal Justice degree programs. These educators have worked in policing, corrections, emergency management, and justice administration, ensuring coursework reflects real-world challenges and opportunities in the justice system.

OU Online faculty translate criminal justice theory into actionable strategies. Many have held leadership roles in law enforcement agencies, correctional institutions, and public safety organizations, and they bring that professional insight into the classroom. Their mentorship helps students build confidence, sharpen decision-making skills, and prepare for careers that demand ethical judgment, collaboration, and operational impact.

Instructors combine advanced academic training with professional experience across the justice field, linking theory and practice so students develop skills that employers value.

By blending academic rigor with practical industry insight, OU Online delivers a curriculum that bridges learning and application. Whether you are learning to analyze criminal behavior, manage public safety programs, or lead justice initiatives with integrity, faculty guidance equips you with competencies that translate directly to professional environments.

Robust Student Support

OU Online offers comprehensive student support services tailored to working professionals in both Criminal Justice degree pathways. From academic support and online tutoring to mental health resources and career development services, students receive guidance designed to help them succeed. The flexible online format allows you to build criminal justice knowledge, leadership, and analytical skills while balancing work and personal responsibilities.

Global Alumni Network

As a student in a Criminal Justice degree program at OU Online, you’ll join a global network of more than 250,000 University of Oklahoma alumni. Graduates serve in law enforcement, corrections, public safety, government, and community organizations, creating a powerful community of professionals committed to justice and public service. Becoming a Sooner connects you to mentorship, career opportunities, and professional networks that support long-term growth and professional advancement.

Still have questions?

An enrollment coach can walk you through what to expect, how to apply, and how this degree fits your academic and career plans. Schedule a call to get personalized guidance and take the next step.

Flexible Format

Criminal Justice degrees at OU Online are delivered 100% online in a flexible format designed for working professionals. You can complete coursework at a pace that fits your schedule while balancing work, family responsibilities, and personal goals. Asynchronous, 8-week courses allow you to study from anywhere and develop criminal justice knowledge, leadership, and analytical skills that translate directly to professional environments.

OU Online’s student-centered approach makes it possible to advance your education without putting your career on hold. Whether you are pursuing the BS in Criminal Justice or the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership, the program is built to support academic progress, professional growth, and preparation for meaningful careers in law enforcement, corrections, public safety, and justice administration.

Tailored Experience

Elective options and interdisciplinary coursework in both Criminal Justice degree programs allow students to shape their learning based on career interests in law enforcement, corrections, public safety, and justice administration. The curriculum encourages collaboration and critical thinking while building the skills needed to lead with confidence, make ethical decisions, and address complex challenges in justice-related fields.

Each program provides opportunities to engage with faculty and peers in meaningful ways, fostering a learning environment that emphasizes real-world application and professional development. Students graduate prepared to navigate complex justice environments and pursue leadership and operational opportunities across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

Cost & Financial Aid

An OU Online degree is an investment in your future, and we are committed to making tuition clear and accessible. The BS in Criminal Justice and the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership have different tuition structures based on eligibility. Review the details below to determine which option aligns with your academic history.

BS in Criminal Justice

$550 per credit hour
Books and additional materials are not included.

BS in Interdisciplinary Studies – Criminal Justice Leadership

$515 per credit hour
Books and additional materials are not included.

Financial Aid & Additional Costs

Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance may be available to help offset the cost. For questions about financial aid for your online program, contact the Online Aid office at onlineaid@ou.edu or call 405-325-2929.

Tuition and fees are subject to change, as determined by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education.

Take the Next Step

Whether you pursue the BS in Criminal Justice or the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Leadership, our team will help you navigate the process from application to enrollment.

To apply for either program, you will need to meet certain criteria. Eligibility requirements vary by program and are based on your academic history and transfer credits.

BS in Criminal Justice
To be considered for the BS in Criminal Justice, applicants must:

Have at least 24 hours of letter-graded college credit
Hold a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0
Be at least 21 years old by the first day of class, or have current active-duty military status
Submit unofficial transcripts for initial review; official transcripts are required within 45 days of admission

This program is designed for working professionals ready to advance in criminal justice careers while strengthening analytical and practical skills.

BS in Interdisciplinary Studies – Criminal Justice Leadership
To apply to the online BSIS in Criminal Justice, you must meet the following requirements:

Be at least 25 years old or a minimum of five years post-high school graduation or GED by the first day of class
Have completed at least 60 credit hours of college coursework
Hold a minimum 2.0 GPA on all prior college coursework

These criteria ensure that students enter the program with the academic background and life experience needed to succeed in a leadership-focused, fast-paced learning environment

Application Timeline

OU Online uses a rolling admissions process, reviewing applications as they are received. Admissions may remain open until two weeks before classes begin, though some programs may have earlier deadlines. Applicants typically receive a decision within two weeks of submitting a completed application.

Step 1

An enrollment coach will review your academic history, answer questions about program pathways, and guide you through the application process.

Step 2

Submit your application
BS in Criminal Justice
Complete the BSCJ application and submit the $50 application fee.
BS in Interdisciplinary Studies – Criminal Justice Leadership
Complete the application for the BSIS – Criminal Justice Leadership program. There is no application fee for this pathway.

Step 3

Provide official transcripts from all previously attended institutions within 45 days of admission. Transcripts allow the admissions team to review transfer credit and finalize eligibility.