Criminal Justice
Online Bachelor's Degree Program

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Be a Force for Justice

Earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice at University of Arkansas Grantham can open a wide range of professional opportunities in law enforcement, security, and public safety. Required coursework builds a foundation of knowledge in advanced criminal justice theory and crime, the practice of law enforcement, and the U.S. judicial system, which includes adult and juvenile corrections. U A Grantham’s 100% online format allows you to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from the comfort of your home and at your convenience. Your online studies will introduce you to the important work being done by police and other security agencies and organizations, while also introducing you to the work being done behind the scenes administratively.

Expect More from UA Grantham

More transferability: Students can transfer in up to 75% of credits for this degree.

More affordability: UA Grantham has one of the lowest tuition rates in the U.S.1 and we provide a new laptop to all new and returning degree-seeking students—at no additional cost.

More start dates: Most courses in this program start monthly. It's easy to get started whenever you're ready.

More credibility: UA Grantham is accredited by the Distance Education Accreditation Commission (DEAC), which is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).


The Convenience of Online Learning

One of the most significant advantages of pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice online at UA Grantham is the convenience it offers. The UA Grantham online program format allows students to access lectures, coursework, and assignments from anywhere with an internet connection. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for working professionals who are balancing various commitments. It enables them to earn their degree while managing their existing responsibilities, making education more accessible.

The UA Grantham online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice program gives students the flexibility to set their own study schedules. Terms at UA Grantham begin every month and continue for eight weeks, providing the necessary flexibility that is valuable for students who have work and family obligations to balance. It also allows students to pace themselves, ultimately increasing the likelihood of successful degree completion.


Comprehensive Curriculum

UA Grantham's online criminal justice degree program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of subjects within the field. From criminal law and ethics to policing strategies and corrections, UA Grantham students gain a well-rounded understanding of the criminal justice system.

Specialized Fields of Study

The UA Grantham online Bachelor of Arts programs offer two concentrations within the field of criminal justice: homeland security and computer forensics investigations. These concentrations allow students to focus on specific areas of interest and gain expertise in their chosen field they want to explore.

Available Specialization Courses:

Criminal Justice Overview

An overview of the criminal justice system, its components (police, courts, corrections), and the role of each in maintaining law and order.

Criminal Law

The study of criminal statutes, legal principles, and the legal process, including the rights of the accused and due process. Explore historical and ethical aspects of criminal justice that dominate news headlines each day, including the use of force and the role mental health plays in committing and prosecuting those who commit crimes.

Policing and Law Enforcement

An exploration of police practices, procedures, and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies. Topics may include community policing, ethics, and the evolving relationship between the police and the communities they serve. Dive into the complexities of being a police officer, from defining its role to identifying what influences the conduct of one.

Criminal Investigation

Curriculum includes techniques and principles of criminal investigation, including evidence collection, crime scene analysis, and forensic science. Investigative practices are the key components of finding, apprehending and prosecuting a criminal. Learn more about historical investigative tactics and techniques and how they’ve evolved.

Criminology

The study of the causes and theories of criminal behavior, including social, psychological, and economic factors. Getting into the mind of criminals and the knowing behaviors and traits that result in a life of crime help prevent future crimes and rehabilitate and prosecute those that have already been committed.

Criminal Procedure

An in-depth look at the legal procedures and constitutional rights that protect the accused during the criminal justice process. Bringing criminals to justice is often not as simple as it might seem. Learn the reasons behind the complexities of the judiciary process and the importance of following protocols and precedents.

Corrections and Rehabilitation

The study of correctional facilities, probation, parole, and rehabilitation programs for offenders. Learn about the debate about the effectiveness of rehabilitation and whether rehabilitation programs can effectively change offenders, and the many rights and responsibilities those in the criminal justice system have while they’re detained.

Juvenile Justice

An examination of the juvenile justice system and the unique issues surrounding young offenders.

Ethics in Criminal Justice

Discussion of ethical dilemmas and moral issues that professionals in the criminal justice field may face.

Criminal Justice Administration

An overview of the administrative and managerial aspects of criminal justice agencies, including budgeting, policy development, and leadership. Look behind the curtain at why certain administrative decisions are made, how they’re communicated and what effect they have.

Research Methods in Criminal Justice

Training in research techniques and methodologies used to study and analyze criminal justice issues. The curriculum may also include electives that allow students to specialize in areas of particular interest, such as leadership, public administration, or psychology and the law.

Professional Advancement

Earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice or a related field can significantly enhance your opportunities in the field. Many law enforcement agencies, private investigators, police officers, security professionals and legal organizations in the criminal justice field require candidates to have at least a bachelor's degree for certain positions or promotions. Having a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice can enhance your professional credentials and development, while also increasing your chances of making a difference in society.

What is the Difference Between Criminal Justice and Criminology?

Criminal Justice: Criminal justice is a broader field that primarily deals with the practical aspects of the criminal justice system. It encompasses the study of law enforcement, the courts, corrections, and the entire process of how crimes are investigated, prosecuted, and punished. Criminal justice professionals, such as police officers, lawyers, judges, and corrections officers, work within this system to maintain law and order and ensure that justice is served.

Criminology: Criminology, on the other hand, is a more specialized and academic field that focuses on the study of crime as a social phenomenon. It delves into the causes, patterns, and consequences of criminal behavior, aiming to understand why people commit crimes, how society responds to crime, and how crime can be prevented. Criminologists analyze data, conduct research, and develop theories to explain criminal behavior.

In summary, criminal justice is concerned with the operation and administration of the criminal justice system, while criminology is the scientific study of crime and criminal behavior. While these fields are closely related and often overlap, they have distinct areas of expertise. Many individuals pursue programs that bridge both fields, using criminological knowledge to inform and improve the practices within the criminal justice system.


Are Your Ready to Excel in Your Profession?

Pursuing an online criminal justice degree from UA Grantham is a wise choice for many reasons. With its accreditation, flexible format, experienced faculty, comprehensive curriculum, and affordability, UA Grantham provides students with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in the dynamic and crucial field of criminal justice. Whether you are a recent high school graduate or a working professional looking to enhance your credentials, this institution offers a pathway to a brighter and more secure future in the criminal justice field.

Program Outcomes

  • Explain the various causes of crime using criminal justice theories, practices and processes to a multicultural population
  • Compare and contrast historical and contemporary police functions, issues and responses to crime
  • Describe the nature and function of corrections, its services, practices and institutions
  • Analyze relevant criminal law and procedures as they relate to the administration of justice
  • Differentiate between adult and juvenile procedures throughout the criminal justice system
  • Apply the concepts of professionalism, ethical behavior and social responsibility to make decisions as a criminal justice professional
  • Evaluate the three components of the criminal justice system

Need More Help?

Talk to a dedicated admissions representative and get answers to all your Criminal Justice questions. Give us a call at 800-955-2527 or email us at admissions@uagrantham.edu.