Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice
Passionate about criminal justice? Interested in becoming a peace officer? With ACU’s online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice, you will study professionalism and ethics in criminal justice, law enforcement leadership, and much more. You’ll gain an understanding of the justice system and its process, from local to global issues, and how to uphold ethical standards. You will also develop strong writing, research, and analytical skills; attractive traits to employers in all industries.
Meet the Dean
Dr. Joey Cope is Dean of the College of Graduate and Professional Studies at Abilene Christian University. He oversees all of the online undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs. He also serves as Associate Vice President for Academics and as the Associate General Counsel for the ACU Dallas Campus.
Joey received his Bachelor of Arts in Telecommunications from Texas Tech University and his Juris Doctorate from Texas Tech University School of Law. He earned a Graduate Certificate in Dispute Resolution from the Pepperdine University School of Law.
Degree Highlights
Required Hours
Major Requirements: 64 credit hours (up to 22 credit hours in electives)
Total Required: 120 credit hours
University Requirements/General Ed: 56 credit hours
Example Coursework
POLC 420: Law Enforcement Leadership
POLC 455: Professionalism and Ethics in Criminal Justice
SOCI 388: Crime and Delinquency
POLC 330: Domestic Violence
Department
School of Undergraduate Studies
Upcoming Start Dates
January 12, 2021
March 9, 2021
What can you do after graduation?
- Federal, state & local law enforcement
- Game Warden
- Probation/parole services
- Correctional Officer
- Lawyer*
- Victim/Witness Assistant
*Law degree and licensure required
Admission Requirements
ACU’s online undergraduate programs are intended for non-traditional students interested in gaining a bachelor’s degree in an online modality.
To be considered for admission, students must:
- Be out of high school for at least four years OR matriculate from institutions with an articulation agreement with ACU.
- Complete the “Online Undergraduate Program” application accompanied by a non-refundable processing fee.
- Submit official transcripts of all previous academic work.
Students are not required to submit ACT or SAT test scores.
Graduation Requirements
Students must earn a 2.0 GPA or higher to meet graduation requirements. Additionally, students must earn a C or higher in each major course and have a minimum GPA of 2.25 in the major.