Bachelor's in Criminal Justice Administration

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Why Study Criminal Justice Administration? 

Our criminal justice program is a launching pad for the vital role you’ll play in society. Examine the most current and pressing issues in cybercrime, crisis intervention, private security, juvenile justice and constitutional criminal procedures. This program also prepares you for graduate study and law school. 

What You'll Learn 

Accomplish more in your career with an in-depth understanding of the roles of policing, courts, laws, and corrections as they contribute to social order. Through hands-on opportunities and real-world experience, you’ll learn the procedures and processes used in day-to-day field work, as well as skills like communications and critical thinking that are crucial for long-term success. Our expert faculty will give you the insight you need to jumpstart your professional path in law enforcement, security, investigation, juvenile services, or corrections.

Program Details

A Bachelor’s degree prepares you for a rising career and for future graduate study by emphasizing clear communication, critical thinking, and a leading-edge understanding of your chosen field. View the core requirements and electives needed to earn a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia College.

A Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science require slightly different coursework. A Bachelor of Arts allows you to take more classes in the humanities, specifically foreign language. A Bachelor of Science requires more courses specific to your major.

  • Policing 
  • Corrections 
  • Ethics 
  • Investigation 
  • Juvenile justice 
  • Management of criminal justice agencies 
  • Criminal law and procedure

Pair your degree with a related minor or explore your other interests without taking on a full course load.

Careers & Outcomes 


Through both classroom and out of class experiences, this program prepares you for a variety of careers in the criminal-justice field: 

  • Police Officer 
  • Sheriff's Deputy 
  • Loss Prevention Officer 
  • Corporate Security Manager 
  • Criminal Investigator 
  • Juvenile Detention Officer 
  • Restorative Justice Facilitator

Law enforcement and corrections professionals can transfer work training toward their degree requirements. 

Where You Can Take Classes

At Columbia College, our flexible options make it easy to adapt to changing circumstances and pursue your education wherever life takes you. Many of our degrees are offered 100% online. If you prefer a traditional classroom experience, you can attend selected classes at our nationwide locations or at our main campus in Columbia, Missouri. Students at all locations will engage with multiple learning methods, including online and virtual while completing their degree.

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Classes Available In Seat

Day Campus - Columbia, MO Fort Stewart - GA Hunter Army Airfield - GA Marysville - WA NAS Jacksonville - FL NASJRB Fort Worth - TX

because a future built by you is a future built for you.

Too many people have been made to feel that higher education isn’t a place for them— that it is someone else’s dream. But we change all that. With individualized attention and ongoing support, we help you write a new story for the future where you play the starring role.