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School of Security & Global Studies

Criminal Justice

Online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice (BA)

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About This Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice Online Program

Sharpen your knowledge of U.S. law enforcement, criminology, investigations, law, and community relations with a BA in Criminal Justice from American Public University.

Coursework in American Public University’s criminal justice major explores the causes of crime, criminal behavior, criminal investigation, corrections and incarceration, juvenile issues, and stress management.

Through our online criminal justice bachelor degree, professionals teach professionals. Many of your fellow students are criminal justice peers with a desire to protect communities and the nation. Meanwhile, faculty share their real-world experience from local, state, and federal government; public safety agencies; the military; corrections facilities; and private organizations.

If you want more in-depth study in digital forensic science, continue your Criminal Justice education at American Public University with a Master's degree.

*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.

What You Will Do

  1. Learn the similarities and differences among local, state, and federal criminal justice components while gaining an international perspective
  2. Explore parts components of the criminal justice system from political and public administration standpoints
  3. Learn how various prevailing theories apply to elements within the criminal justice system
  4. Design research that, if executed, would add to the body of knowledge in the criminal justice profession
  5. Probe how standards of evidence and law impact criminal justice system segments and professionals

View Program Outcome Assessment Results

Degree at a Glance

Number of Credits
120
Transfer up to 90 credits1
Cost Per Credit
$360 | $250*
$324**
*with Preferred Military Rate
**with Veteran Grant or APUS Opportunity Grant
Courses Start Monthly
Online
and vary from 8 to 16 weeks

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Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version

Students must choose a concentration for this degree program:

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.

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.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 3690

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This course gives the student an in-depth study of the chemistry of hazardous materials as emergency management personnel must deal with these types of materials. The course covers a great amount of material on the chemistry and physical properties of common materials that an emergency responder will commonly find in the course of responding to emergencies. It is important for emergency responders to have this knowledge for the safety of them and others. This course presents the chemical basis for classification of, and emergency response to incidents involving, hazardous materials. It is designed for the non-chemist emergency responder, transporters and others who need to understand the implications of single product and multiple product spills, releases and incidents.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2571

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This course is a study of the federal, state and local organizations involved in border and coastal security, associated homeland security issues, the various policy and operational strategies used for border and coastal access and security, and contemporary border and coastal security concerns. Topics also include immigration and non-U.S. approaches to border and coastal security.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3345

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This course is designed to provide students with a broad knowledge of port security issues. It examines the critical importance of ports to trade and the U.S. economy, as well as ports’ vulnerability to disruption and attack. Legislation, port facility management and operations, access controls, and future maritime threats will also be discussed in this course.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3193

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This course assesses the impact of terrorism on U.S. national security. With a focus on essential elements related to terrorism as well as on U.S. anti-terrorism and counter-terrorism policies and their challenges, the student will develop a comprehensive understanding of how the United States views terrorism and how its lasting threat affects national security.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4140

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This course is a study of the primary international and domestic laws governing navigation, naval operations, and maritime law enforcement. Students will study various aspects of the international law of the sea, maritime jurisdiction, and other laws and treaties dealing with such topics as maritime safety and security, drug trafficking, fisheries management, marine environmental protection, and piracy.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

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.

Objectives:

Choose 15 credit hours from this section.

Course ID: 2522

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This course is an introduction to the philosophy, history, and constitutional limitations of law enforcement. The course will focus on the function of law enforcement within society, ethics and professionalism, theories of law enforcement, and the legal aspects that impact law enforcement.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2523

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This course will provide an introduction to the collection, preservation, and basic crime scene investigations. Furthermore this course will also focus on the laws and court decisions relating to the admissibility of evidence as well as the appropriate methods of interrogation and its uses in the criminal justice process.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2533

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The course will provide the student with an overview of the American criminal justice system as an interdisciplinary social science involving aspects of criminology, sociology, law, and political science. This course will also examine the complexity of the American Criminal Justice System through its administrative process.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2543

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This course will explore the stresses of law enforcement, specific stress factors in law enforcement (i.e., shift work, hazards and dangers, dealing with death and severe injury, post-shooting trauma, testifying in court, and undercover work). Methods and techniques for reducing stress will be discussed as will applying these techniques in the field.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2527

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This course will provide an in-depth overview of the concepts and theories associated with being a patrol officer. The student will become familiar with aspects of community-oriented policing; problem-oriented policing, civil liability, ethics and day-to-day police activities that make patrol work the backbone of law enforcement.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2559

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This course will explore the sociological and psychological perspectives of sexual crimes as well as examine the legal and forensic aspects of rape. The impact rape has on its victims and society's reactions to sexual violence will be analyzed not only within the United States but around the world. Additionally the class will focus on aspects of causation and rehabilitation of rape crime as well as the proper collection, preservation and analysis of evidence in rape crimes.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3597

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This course will introduce students to the principles of juvenile delinquency. It will provide a historical overview of juvenile delinquency in America. The course will examine the psychological, social, and environmental theories of juvenile delinquency while also covering the juvenile court system and treatment options for delinquency.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2548

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The course will prepare students to use intelligence methodologies and templates to assist in case support or investigations, security and counterintelligence, trend development and forecasting, and efficient use of open source information to maximize resources. The course will examine the current use of intelligence in law enforcement (federal, state, and local) and its applications in support of investigations and operational planning. The methods examined in this course will be applicable in the private sector.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2551

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This course will provide an examination of the evolution of organized crime in the United States, with a focus on the social and legal factors that contributed to its development and the groups involved. Additionally this class will explore how organized crime is structured and how it can be exposed and controlled. Theoretical explanations of organized crime are also covered.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2553

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This course explores criminal behavior, its motivation, and the environmental influences and patterns of offending. Other topics examined are the approaches to profiling and how these investigative techniques are applied to helping solve crimes. This course will address aspects of behavior, taking into consideration the definition of criminal profiling as the inference of offender traits from physical and/or behavioral evidence. Evaluations will be made of the history, theories, and investigative techniques regarding profiling crime offenders, using a unique blend of both social science, as well as psychological and legal research. It includes legal case excerpts to demonstrate the role of the profiler (investigator). This provides the student a solid knowledge foundation of the integral relationship between the profiling techniques and theories of criminal behavior and the court system. It is recommended students take either CMRJ101 or CMRJ306 prior to enrolling in this course.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2556

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This course will examine contemporary practices for analysis and measurement of crime including the use of geographical information systems (GIS) to map various aspects of crime. Modern crime analysis focuses on reducing crime and improving police efficiency by illustrating the impact of crime on the community and community impact on crime through the use of the SARA (scanning, analysis, response, & assessment) problem-solving model. Crime analysis facilitates informed decision making on criminal activity and prevention, thereby being instrumental in helping society learn the linkages between crime and other factors such as poverty or drug abuse. Additionally, there is a review of the crime analysis function within the law enforcement organization and a demonstration of how to develop, implement, and operate a crime analysis unit.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2557

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The purpose of this course is to educate students regarding the everyday operations of state and federal crime laboratories and the forensic services provided by these organizations. The course is scientifically oriented and will concentrate on the significance of forensic evidence and various testing procedures and instrumentation used to analyze biological, chemical, pattern, and trace items of evidence. Another focus will be the proper recognition, collection and preservation of physical evidence obtained from systematic searches of crime scenes.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 4465

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This course will provide an in-depth overview of human trafficking. Human trafficking will be explored from domestic and global perspectives. Students will gain a deeper understanding of how human trafficking occurs and how victims are recruited into human trafficking. An in-depth analysis of laws governing human trafficking and the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 will be explored. Students will explore the Department of State Trafficking in Persons Report and how countries around the world are evaluated in terms of their efforts against human trafficking based on the Trafficking in Persons Report tier system. A comprehensive analysis of the scope of human trafficking in the United States will be provided along with an analysis of indicators of human trafficking. Human trafficking will be explored on a global scale and the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on human trafficking will be explored. Furthermore, the role of gangs and why they have set their targets on human trafficking will be assessed. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the role of law enforcement and other first responders in mitigating human trafficking.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2536

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This course will examine contemporary practices for investigating sudden, unexpected and violent death. Two major topics will be explored: the first focusing on the manner of death (the social circumstances under which the death occurs), the second focusing on the cause of death (the particular material actions which result in death).The following types of deaths will be considered: asphyxial, blunt and sharp force, firearms, natural causes, mass disaster, child abuse, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and suicide. Estimating the postmortem interval and identification of human remains will also be considered. It is recommended that students take CMRJ306 before enrolling in this course.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2895

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This course develops interpersonal, group, and presentational communication skills that are applicable in personal and professional cross-cultural relationships, and focuses on differences in values, message systems, and communication rules across cultural boundaries and in multicultural settings.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2918

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This course is designed to focus on communication within the workplace, personal activities, and family life in order to establish and maintain healthy interpersonal relationships. This course serves as an introduction to major theories and empirical research regarding the role of interpersonal communication as it relates to personal, contextual, and cultural variables in the development of various types of relationships.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3356

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This course is a study of the theory and practice of incident command, the various methods of incident command, and specific focus on the Incident Command System (ICS) used in crises, disasters, and emergency management response systems. The roles and responsibilities of the ICS system are identified. The different agencies and incidents in which the ICS system is used are discussed. Cases are studied in order to assist students in understanding the management and leadership complexity associated with modern emergencies and disasters. The student will participate in a 2D/3D simulation and take on a new role within an incident command scenario shifting from being an information producer, to an information consumer, and decision-maker. The scenario will feature a terrorist event at a university graduation where students will be required to activate their incident command system, working the scenario to its conclusion using decision-making points throughout.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3189

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This course differentiates historical and contemporary patterns, modus operandi, capabilities, and vulnerabilities of organized crime organizations. Course content includes a review of the contemporary literature of South American, Mexican, Asian, European, and African criminal enterprises, traditional organized crime, Outlaw motorcycle gangs and transnational criminal enterprises.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3180

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The rapid increase in multinational analysis and transnational organized crime, corporate drug trafficking organizations, and the impact of crime on national and international policy has created a critical need for law enforcement intelligence experts in the relatively new field of criminal intelligence. The course provides the student with an introduction to the methods and techniques of criminal intelligence analysis and strategic organized crime. It will demonstrate how to predict trends, weaknesses, capabilities, intentions, changes, and warnings needed to dismantle criminal organizations.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 2531

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This course is an introduction to the structure of the American court system. Topics include prosecution, right to counsel, pretrial release, grand jury process, and sentencing concepts. The course will assess the U.S Courts System and how it relates to the criminal justice system in America. Students will become familiar with the chronological events from the arrest process to sentencing and appeals. Students will be able to explain concepts of stop and frisk arrest, searches under warrant, and presentation of the case to the magistrate. Assessments of the criminal trial process and phases of pretrial and trial proceedings will be examined.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3859

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This undergraduate course will focus on the basic legal rules governing kinds of information which can be developed and received at trial, and how evidence may be considered by the trier of fact. Students will study how policies favoring probative evidence must be weighed against policies protecting against hearsay, opinion, prejudice, time consumption, and other harmful matters. Proper examination and impeachment of witnesses will also be explored.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 2547

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This course examines various elements and aspects of International and Domestic Terrorism. Students explore the cultural and ideological philosophies, as well as the social, economic, political, and religious conditions of select states, groups, and individuals that comprise the phenomena of terrorism. By examining the historical and contemporary aspects of terrorism students develop a working knowledge of the current Global War on Terror and are better prepared to comprehend terrorist motives and ideologies. Topics include: History and Development, Types of Terrorism, Conventional and Unconventional terrorist tactics, the Media’s impact on terrorism including the US Counterterrorism Policies. Particular attention is addressed to the Al-Qaeda terrorist network.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2560

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This course is an overview of the principles and issues in business and organizational security management. It reviews the classical management functions including the role of the Chief Security Officer and the principles of organizing the security function. It assesses the traditional management theories and concepts of planning, staffing, span of control as they are applied to the organization. Students examine the challenges embodied in various aspects of physical, personnel, and information security. Principles of loss prevention and the protection of assets are also considered. The history, legal foundations, functions, operations, processes, and tools of security management are explored to ensure the student has a broad understanding of security management and its current role in government and business operations.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Objectives:

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4715

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The act of being an entrepreneur is taking an idea and turning it into reality. There are two types of entrepreneurs - those that have a myriad of ideas and those that can't think of one idea. This course, Idea generation, is dedicated to helping the student identify opportunities for a new business venture by either deciding on one idea they have or helping to create ideas. The course starts with recognizing various ways to come up with a new idea and ends with outlining a plan to take the idea to reality.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 4565

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This course outlines appropriate processes to evaluate potential employees. This course was designed and developed to guide students through recruiting, advertisement planning, and hiring the most qualified applicants. Students research comparable pay rates and the cost of compensation for employees, learn of the most effective methods for motivating employees, and learn about employment law.

Course ID: 4822

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Social entrepreneurship is a growing movement for entrepreneurship. Social entrepreneurship scans society and identifies social problems; the entrepreneur then solves that problem/need by creating a solution that benefits society. Because of this, Social Entrepreneurship has since become the new trend for aspiring entrepreneurs to start their entrepreneurial ventures. According to a survey of 1,000 social entrepreneurs (conducted by Un.Ltd. research team), they impact health and well-being, community cohesion, promote personal development, and create training and skills development. Further, the research indicated 40% of social entrepreneurs held a degree.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 4570

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This course introduces students to the essential principles and tools of small business finance, with a focus on planning, budgeting, forecasting, and funding strategies for new ventures. Students will develop key components of the financial section of a business plan—including start-up cost estimates, cash flow projections and profit and loss statements. Emphasis is placed on understanding the financial decision-making process, building effective financial systems, maintaining compliance, and presenting financial data persuasively to lenders or investors. This course is designed to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the financial knowledge and confidence to fund, manage, and sustain a small business.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 4572

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New business owners must be able to retain customers and capture new customers. Whether online or in a physical location customer service is critical to the success of any small business. This course provides students the foundation for service innovation, finding opportunities for service innovation, and exploring customer “jobs.” In addition, this course focuses on determining what your customer is trying to accomplish, not what you are offering. This is crucial to implement a quality service culture.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

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.

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.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 4474

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This course is an overview study of the concepts and techniques in finance for non-financial managers. The course will cover basic financial tools and principles for both small and large business. Topics include financial and securities markets, financial statements and analysis, capital budgeting, management, and decision-making. Students must have access to Microsoft Word® and Microsoft Excel® software. Microsoft Word® and Microsoft Excel® are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2967

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This course provides an overview of concepts, skills, theories and techniques involving human resource management(i.e. recruitment and selection, training and development, performance appraisals, reward systems, and benefit programs). Students will have the opportunity to review scenarios involving innovative HR practices in the workplace.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2968

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This course focuses on the principles, practices, and processes of dispute and conflict resolution. The course draws on interdisciplinary materials from social science, decision theory, management/labor relations, law, and others. Course curriculum incorporates a review of non-binding dispute resolution strategies such as negotiation and mediation, binding strategies including arbitration, and psychological challenges to overcoming conflict such as cognitive perception biases.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2931

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This course is designed to provide students with a solid foundation about leaders, the leadership process, and motivation. Topics include the theories of leadership and motivation, leadership power, leader behavior, leadership characteristics, the role of gender, substitutes for leadership, and dysfunctional leadership. MGMT312 serves as a self-assessment of the student's leadership and motivation skills, knowledge, and attitudes and addresses the questions: Who am I as a leader? What are my most distinguishing leadership traits? What leadership style am I most comfortable being around? How do I influence others, and how do I motivate others?
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Course ID: 2928

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The realities of organizational change affect every individual, every business, and every government. Change and transformation are constants in today's global and technical environment. This course explores theories and concepts which explain how to gain acceptance and buy-in for change management initiatives within organizations. If management and employees accept these changes, the impact will be beneficial and less disruptive to daily operations. Whether the change is as small as the implementation of a new financial system or as big as a plant move across the country, the implementation process necessitates planning and communication to ensure success.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session

Must take the following in this Section:

Course ID: 5037

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Information and Digital Literacy is designed to provide students with sustainable and usable skills essential to success in both academic and professional settings. Students will learn best practices to locate and evaluate sources, and effectively communicate using digital literacy to become proficient 21st century learners.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4951

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Martin Luther King, Jr, said, “If you can’t fly, then run. If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl. But whatever you do, you have to KEEP MOVING.” Making Writing Relevant is a composition course that will definitely keep you moving. It is not merely a required course; it is the type of course you will want to take because it moves you onto the path to success. Over eight-weeks, we will help you learn the most important components of a successful writer-communicator. We will teach you how to research properly, knowing you will need this skill in every course you take here at APUS and also in interactions in your professional and personal life. We will teach you the formatting style you will use in your field. We will provide a supportive community to strengthen and encourage you, and by the end of this nearly-all-you-need-to-know-about-writing course, you will be able to fly.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 2534

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This course is an evaluation of the breadth and complexity of contemporary police administration from a systems perspective, a traditional structural perspective, a human behavioral perspective, and a strategic management perspective. Students will apply terms and ideas in the study of policing; and be able to demonstrate and assess the historical development of law enforcement at local, state and federal levels. Additionally they will be able to critically analyze contemporary problems and trends facing law enforcement agencies including their functions, operations and management styles. Managerial theories and practices in organizations will be examined and assessed as to their application in law enforcement organizations.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2535

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This course examines criminal behavior in relationship to various criminological theories and analyses these theories through a historical context. These theories include classical theories and current theories of crime as they relate to criminal involvement. Additionally this course will analyze society's response to criminal behavior through the assessment of legal approaches and the various aspects of the criminal justice system. Additionally types of criminal behavior and the systems reaction to these crimes will be distinguished. Research affecting social policy and public crime concerns are examined including social problems and social responsibility perspectives as well.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2538

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This course is an analytical examination of crime detection and solution, including such topics as crime scene procedures, physical evidence, interviews, field notes and reporting, follow-up investigation, interrogation, and rules of evidence. Specific detail is given to investigations involving homicide, sex-related offenses, and crimes against children, robbery, larceny, vehicle thefts, computer crime, environmental crime, arson, and drug abuse. There is an in depth analysis of investigation methodologies addressing inductive and deductive reasoning to assess the decision making process to solve crimes.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2539

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This course concentrates on the major functions, structures and processes that underline ethical issues within the American Criminal Justice System. This course will explore the structure and nature of the various types of ethical debates within the American judicial system. There will be an assessment of the ethics in criminal justice, as it explores the issues of morality, virtue, honesty, and making ethical decisions in the United States criminal justice system. Assessments of various issues will be examined as they relate to decision making and ethics.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2545

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A comprehensive study of the context, practices, and special interests of corrections. Topics include the early history and current trends of correctional thought and practice, jails and other short-term facilities, intermediate sanctions, the prison experience, women in prison, institutional management, educational/treatment programs, prisoners' rights, and race/ethnicity challenges.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2554

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This course is an introduction to Constitutional Law, the Supreme Court, and other aspects of the legal system using the case analysis approach. Its concentration is on the study and analysis of United States Constitution. It emphasizes an in-depth study of the Bill of Rights, specifically those rights pertaining to Civil Liberties. Topics include: the historical events that led to the development of the Constitution; principles governing the operation of the Constitution and the role of the U.S. Supreme Court and the Judiciary; characteristics and powers of the three branches of government; development of due process and individual protections to include right to speech, freedom of religion, right to bear arms, right to vote, and right to counsel.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2555

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This course familiarizes the student with the basic law, procedures and rules that govern the criminal justice system in America. It is designed to produce students who can understand, appreciate and discuss the benefits and problems with the criminal justice system in America today. The students will become conversant with the Bill of Rights, basic criminal law terminology and procedures. The course emphasizes the principles of criminal liability and the acts, mental state, and attendant circumstances that are necessary ingredients in crimes against persons or property or in offenses involving theft, fraud, drugs, morality and decency, public peace, or public justice.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2537

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This is a procedural law course which includes an overview of the law of arrests, search, and seizure, the making of bail, adjudication, pre- and post-trial activities and the nature of plea bargaining. Substantial emphasis is given the constitutional protections afforded through the Bill of Rights. This course examines procedures used by American police, prosecutors, and courts to bring criminal cases to trial and explores some of the defendant’s rights at trial and on appeal. The course will consider the Common Law, constitutional, and statutory bases of procedural practices in American criminal law. The student will be exposed to a comprehensive overview of the processes involved in the use of criminal evidence including rules of evidence; arrests, searches, and seizures; interrogations, confessions, and non-testimonial evidence, impeachment and cross-examination of witnesses; opinion evidence; hearsay evidence; and articles and exhibits of evidence.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4890

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This course provides basic research methods skills for addressing problems and issues specific to the programs within the School of Security and Global Studies. The course covers four basic approaches to social research including experimentation, survey research, field research, and the use of available data. Students will gain foundational knowledge in research planning, design, methodology, data collection, and analysis. This course prepares students to carry out research at the undergraduate level.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session
Select any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Credits applied toward a minor or certificate in an unrelated field may be used to fulfill elective credit for the major.

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 3979

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This seminar is a senior level course designed to allow the student to review, analyze, and integrate the work the student has completed toward a degree in Criminal Justice. The student will complete an approved academic paper that demonstrates mastery of their program of study in a meaningful culmination of their learning, as well as assess their level of mastery of the stated outcomes of their degree requirements. NOTE: ALL required, core, and major courses must be completed prior to enrollment in this course. Student must have SENIOR standing to register. (Note to students: The course materials, assignments, learning outcomes, and expectations in this upper level undergraduate course assume that the student has completed all lower level general education and career planning coursework necessary to develop research, writing, and critical thinking skills. Students who have not fulfilled all general education requirements through courses or awarded transfer credit should strongly consider completing these requirements prior to registering for this course.)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
02/23/26 - 07/31/26 08/03/26 - 09/27/26 Summer 2026 Session I 8 Week session
04/27/26 - 10/02/26 10/05/26 - 11/28/26 Fall 2026 Session B 8 Week session
05/25/26 - 10/30/26 11/02/26 - 12/27/26 Fall 2026 Session I 8 Week session
06/29/26 - 12/04/26 12/07/26 - 01/31/27 Fall 2026 Session D 8 Week session

Why Pursue Your Criminal Justice Degree Online at American Public University?

1. Learn From Faculty With Real-World Experience 

The bachelor’s in criminal justice program at American Public University is designed to equip students with a deeper understanding of criminal law, crime prevention, law enforcement, the U.S. court system, and the penal system. Courses are led by learned professionals, many of whom are scholar-practitioners who have held prior criminal justice positions and even served in law enforcement themselves. 

“When teaching a course, I always try to bring personal experiences from my criminal justice career into the discussions where applicable. I believe that applying real-life experiences to theoretical course content assists students with applying the course material to the situations they will encounter later in their professional careers. The blending of theory and practice seem to make the course content easier for students to comprehend.”
– Ron Wallace, Ph.D., Associate Professor, School of Security and Global Studies

2. Gain Career-Relevant Skills

Managing relationships with the public and peers often requires strong communication skills, enhanced critical thinking, and the ability to be an effective problem solver. Higher education can be an excellent means to sharpen these skill sets.

3. Earn Your College Degree From an Accredited University

American Public University is part of American Public University System, which is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (hlcommission.org), an institutional accreditation agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Accreditation is your signal that the University is committed to a quality learning experience and rigorous academic standards. 

4. Study Online and Access Coursework 24/7

Pursuing your online bachelor degree at American Public University allows you the flexibility to advance your education, even while working full-time, raising a family, or balancing other long-term commitments. Classes are delivered online and have no set login times.

5. Affordable Tuition and $0 Ebooks

American Public University strives to make quality education affordable by offering a competitive cost-per-credit-hour compared to many other universities. To help further minimize the cost of pursuing a bachelor’s degree, the University provides no-cost ebooks to all undergraduate students, thus eliminating the need to buy or rent textbooks.

6. Online Classes Start Each Month For Flexible Scheduling

Most courses in this bachelor’s degree program run for only 8 weeks. Students can register for new classes every month. This allows undergraduates to progress through the degree program at their own pace—without having to wait for a new semester to enroll in classes.

police officer

Criminal Justice Classes and Curriculum

The online bachelor’s degree in criminal justice program provides a well-rounded learning experience, combining general education with major-specific courses and a degree concentration. Students are also required to complete a specified number of credit hours’ worth of electives. Electives may include any baccalaureate-level courses—other than the senior seminar in criminal justice—that have not already been completed to satisfy general education, major-specific, or degree concentration curriculum requirements. 

Deepen Your Knowledge of the Criminal Justice System

An education in criminal justice opens your eyes to the many layers that comprise this complex field. From defending the law to charging and rehabilitating offenders, students will be familiarized with each system involved along the way. 

The criminal justice major therefore examines how the following entities work toward a shared goal to protect public safety and bring criminals to justice:

  • Local and state law enforcement officers*
  • Federal agents (Secret Service and FBI agents)*
  • Forensic science technicians*
  • Criminal courts professionals*
  • Prosecutors*
  • Corrections officers*
  • Parole officers*
  • Probation officers*
  • Homeland security professionals*
Applying to This Criminal Justice Program 
  • All APU 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 APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.

How to Transfer Credits Toward This Bachelor’s Degree

Students pursuing an online criminal justice bachelor’s degree at American Public University may be eligible to transfer up to 90 credits from other academic and/or professional programs. This may reduce the number of courses an undergraduate must take in order to satisfy degree requirements, making it possible to graduate in less than four years (if studying full-time).1 Time to completion is also dependent on the number of courses taken per session.

1 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. 

lawyer

Your Professional Experience May Translate to College Credit

Often, students interested in criminal justice programs already have professional experience—either as police officers or in other roles within the criminal justice field—which may translate to applicable college credit. For this reason, students are strongly encouraged to inquire about a transfer credit evaluation. A transfer credit evaluation may be completed at no cost, and preliminary results may be provided within only 2-3 days.

The University may award credits for any of the following:

  • Academic credit, including college credit earned through completion of an associate degree program
  • Military service and education
  • Professional training and certification
  • Credit by examination
  • Government (such as homeland security) training
  • Public safety (such as police officer) training
  • Relevant prior learning
  • Community college agreements

For more information about transferring credits, please visit the University’s transfer credit policy page.

Paying For Your Online Criminal Justice Degree

Tuition and fees are due at the time of course registration. Those pursuing a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice may pay for their studies in any number of ways.

Everyday Heroes Grant

The University recognizes the selfless and courageous work of public safety professionals and awards a tuition grant to all police officers, firefighters, and emergency medical services personnel. This grant is available for all undergraduate and master’s-level programs. Family members, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents, are also eligible for this grant. Request information to learn more about this opportunity. 

 

Financial Aid, Loans, and Scholarships

Students who seek financial assistance may qualify for federal student aid administered by the government in the form of loans and/or grants. Federal student aid may help to lower the upfront cost of pursuing a degree online—and, unlike loans, many federal grants do not need to be repaid. 

Alternatively, degree-seekers may wish to consider looking into private loans and/or scholarships that may further lower the upfront cost of enrollment.

 

Employer Tuition Assistance Benefits

Those who are currently employed and seeking a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice are encouraged to inquire about employer-sponsored tuition assistance. Many companies offer benefits to support team members who are pursuing a college degree. Consult with your employer’s human resources department to find out if you are eligible for tuition assistance through your workplace. Many police departments and municipalities have partnerships with the University, which may afford additional savings and benefits. Ask your HR department or your department’s leadership if there is a partnership with the University.

NOTE: Grants cannot be combined with other University grant offers. Only one tuition grant can be applied per course registration.

 

Paying For Your Online Degree Out-of-Pocket

The following payment methods are accepted for tuition and fees:

  • Credit cards
  • Digital payments
  • E-checks

We also offer an Automatic debit plan, with 8- and 16-week payment schedule options.


 

Frequently Asked Questions

A bachelor’s in criminal justice includes a complete overview of the field. Criminal justice majors study every step of the criminal justice process, from crime prevention and law enforcement strategies to rehabilitation programs for juvenile and adult offenders. This degree program also incorporates social sciences: students are introduced to the leading criminology theories in order to better understand the influences and conditions believed to contribute to criminal behavior.

As a criminal justice major, you will complete coursework that challenges you to consider the ways in which police agencies deter and solve crimes. You will engage in open discussions with your peers and professors about law and order, human services, and the many gray areas within the criminal justice realm. Such topics may include potential ethical concerns and other complex situations that may arise during—or as a result of—an arrest, criminal investigation, or criminal trial.

You will learn how crime scenes are preserved to properly collect and analyze evidence. Furthermore, your studies will cover the ways in which forensic science technicians apply research methodology to assist in solving crimes.

Additionally, pursuing your degree in criminal justice means you will examine the relationship between local law enforcement departments and federal agencies like the U.S. Marshals or the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Criminal justice majors explore the processes through which police officers and FBI agents open, conduct, and close criminal investigations. 

Courses also expand students’ knowledge of state and federal laws, and how violations of each may impact jurisdiction and penalties.

The criminal justice bachelor’s degree offers an introduction to U.S. criminal law, crime prevention practices, law enforcement objectives, forensic science, and the legal and corrections systems. Throughout their studies, students are encouraged to think like a police officer: courses advance their knowledge of criminals, while simultaneously dissecting scholarly theories and real-world solutions for discouraging individuals from committing crimes. 

Ultimately, whether or not you should pursue your degree in criminal justice depends on your own academic goals and your unique subject matter interests. For some students, a criminal justice bachelor’s degree is a natural fit, while others may be better suited to different educational programs.

Yes. Those interested in pursuing a master’s degree may wish to pursue American Public University’s online master of arts in criminal justice.

In general, a full-time student without any transfer credits can expect to complete a bachelor’s degree within four years. Completion time is also dependent on transfer credits accepted and the number of courses taken each session.

While both criminal justice bachelor degrees provide the opportunity to obtain practical knowledge, there are several key differences to consider when selecting an undergraduate program. For instance, a criminal justice BA (bachelor of arts) program may focus primarily on law enforcement and the duties of a police officer. Conversely, the criminal justice BS (bachelor of science) might take a more scientific and technical approach to the field, emphasizing the work done by crime scene investigation personnel, detectives, investigators, state agents, federal agents, and forensics and digital forensics teams.

Neither degree is objectively “better,” but one may certainly be more aligned with your particular interests than the other.

While online, asynchronous learning allows for convenience and flexibility, no undergraduate student should expect academic success to come effortlessly or without truly applying oneself. 

The criminal justice major is designed to challenge students to think critically, ask meaningful questions, and learn from the unique perspectives of professors whose teachings draw from their own criminal justice career paths. 

FBI agents may assist police agencies to investigate illegal activities that include: 

  • Terrorism
  • Cyber crime
  • Counterintelligence
  • Civil rights
  • Public corruption
  • Weapons of mass destruction
  • Organized crime
  • Violent crime
  • White-collar crime 

Yes, law enforcement officers will sometimes enlist the assistance of a PI (private investigator) to collect evidence during an investigation.

Correctional officers work in detention centers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)7, correctional officers’ duties and responsibilities include:

  • Enforcing rules and keeping order within jails or prisons
  • Supervising activities of people in custody
  • Inspecting facilities to ensure they meet security and safety standards
  • Conducting searches in the facility, such as persons and property, for rule violations
  • Reporting on the conduct of people in custody
  • Escorting and transporting people in custody between jail, courtroom, prison, or other points 

Conversely, probation officers8 work with individuals outside of the prison system who’ve been placed on probation. As the BLS states, they “ensure that probationers are not a danger to the community and help in their rehabilitation by visiting frequently. Probation officers write reports that detail each probationer’s treatment plan and progress since being put on probation. Most work exclusively with either adults or juveniles.”

7Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, [career information accessed August 31, 2023] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/protective-service/correctional-officers.htm#tab-2. Employment conditions in your area may vary.

8Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, [career information accessed August 31, 2023] https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/probation-officers-and-correctional-treatment-specialists.htm#tab-2. Employment conditions in your area may vary.

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Admission Requirements

  • All APU 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 APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.

Need Help?

Selecting the right program to meet your educational goals is a key step in ensuring a successful outcome. If you are unsure of which program to choose, or need more information, please contact an APU admissions representative at 877-755-2787 or [email protected].

Quality Education Should Be Affordable

So you can focus on the opportunities ahead, without the financial burden of more expensive schools who are not as invested in your success. Learn more about paying for school.

Consumer Information

Disclosures

Maryland Residents learn more about costs, completion rates, median debt, and more.

 

1The 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.

*Cost Per Credit Hour

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.

Cost of Attendance

Learn more about American Public University's cost components and full cost of attendance.