Online Criminal Justice

Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice - Online

Comprehensive Law Enforcement Training for Career Advancement

Gain the hands-on training necessary for in-demand law enforcement and human services careers with the Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice degree from East Central University Online. Developed for the next generation of law enforcement and human services leaders, this bachelor鈥檚 degree examines relevant, real-world issues to help you build a strong understanding of what it takes to lead successfully.

The program is designed to prepare you for the Council on Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) certification. Students who live near campus may also participate in the Collegiate Officer Program (COPs) to build a strong background for the law enforcement career they want.* ECU also grants full-time certified law enforcement professionals credit from CLEET training.

*The Collegiate Officer Program (COPs) is a six-week, immersive internship offered to online students who live near campus and seek theoretical and practical preparation for a career in law enforcement. The purpose of COPs is to provide students with an opportunity to complete the State of Oklahoma peace office certification through a Council of Law Enforcement Education and Training (CLEET) approved curriculum in conjunction with the completion of bachelor鈥檚 degree requirements.

Topics of Study

The curriculum explores current law enforcement issues and diverse aspects of the criminal justice system to ensure you graduate with the broad knowledge necessary for the law enforcement or human services position you want.

You鈥檒l study topics like:

Police function
Criminal investigation methods
Legal aspects of criminal justice
Criminal behavior theory
Correctional institutions
Rural criminal justice
Criminal justice in Indian Country
Causes of crime
Society鈥檚 reaction to crime

Learning Outcomes

By the time you graduate, you will be able to:

Completely understand the causes of crime and society鈥檚 reaction to crime, and utilize this understanding to prevent criminal activity.
Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the police function and carry out criminal investigations effectively.
Respond to a variety of crimes fast and efficiently to ensure those involved are safe.
Secure crime scenes and collect criminal evidence properly to prevent potential contamination.
Practice effective leadership techniques in diverse law enforcement settings to ensure officers are safe and protected while serving the community.