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Online Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Crime and Criminal Behavior
PROGRAM AT A GLANCE
Why earn a degree in crime and criminal behavior?
Our BS in Criminal Justice, Crime and Criminal Behavior program gives you a chance to better understand the factors that lead to criminal activity. You’ll gain actionable knowledge you can use, from the street to the courthouse, to help prevent crime and protect society.
BS in Criminal Justice, Crime and Criminal Behavior program overview
This program provides an understanding of the social causes for crime, how criminals think and the effectiveness of crime and delinquency prevention programs — plus an overview of careers in criminal justice.
Build your skills
- Understand the causes of crime and its effect on society.
- Apply ethical thinking and judgment to a wide range of criminal justice situations.
- Identify the increasingly complex and powerful technologies used in fighting crime.
- Communicate effectively, share information, persuade others and manage conflicts.
- Think critically to effectively investigate crimes, enforce laws and implement corrections.
Class size varies based on course objectives and the teaching demands of the subject matter. In general, Strayer University aims to keep the student-to-instructor ratio low.
How long does it take to get a degree in crime and criminal behavior?
- There are 40 11-week courses in this program.
- How many courses you take at a time will determine how long the overall program will be.
- Strayer University credits are expressed in quarter hours.
- One quarter hour of credit is granted for the successful completion of 10 contact hours per course.
- The standard requirement for a 4.5 credit hour is for students to spend 10 to 14 hours in weekly work, including in- and out-of-classroom work, for a total of 135 hours by the end of the course. Strayer’s course design uses this requirement to meet applicable regulatory standards.
Accredited online university
Strayer University has distinct accreditations and affiliations that attest to our academic quality. We’re committed to meeting quality standards, so you can earn a diploma you’re proud to display. View the ACBSP student achievement information.
80
of Strayer Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice alumni agree that their degree was a worthwhile investment.
Strayer Alumni Survey, 2023
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*Student is required to take two courses per quarter during disbursement period
PREPARING YOUR RESULTS
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Program cost breakdown
In most cases, Strayer’s BS program consists of 40 courses, with the price of $1525 per course. There are additional fees for textbooks and supplies, a $65 technology fee each term and a one-time $150 degree conferral fee.
Transfer credits
Courses from another institution may be eligible for transfer credits to Strayer, which can reduce the number of courses you need to graduate and your overall tuition. You can transfer up to 28 classes toward your bachelor’s degree (if approved). Strayer’s transfer credit page has more information, as well as a tool to estimate how many transfer credits you may be able to apply to your Strayer degree program.
Scholarships and financial aid
There are a number of financial aid options worth exploring on our financial aid page. To apply for federal aid, prospective students should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. Stafford loans are available for graduate study. These are direct unsubsidized loans, not based on financial need. Unlike subsidized loans, Stafford loan interest will accrue while in the program. Making interest payments while in school will help reduce the amount of principal that would otherwise build up.
There are also scholarships and private loans available for Strayer students.
Save up to $15,250 on your Strayer bachelor’s degree by accessing your general education courses through our affiliate, Sophia.*
*Savings assumes transferring 10 courses taken at Sophia. Eligibility rules apply. Connect with us for details.
Transfer up to 28 classes toward your bachelor’s degree.
More than 500 organizations – including corporations and community colleges – invest in their employees by partnering with Strayer University to offer access to discounted education programs. If your employer is a Corporate Alliance Partner, you may qualify for programs that can help you discover career pathways in your field.
Private loans
Nonfederal loans may pay the difference between the cost of attendance and the total of loans and grants received from other tuition assistance programs. The terms and conditions of federal loans are often more favorable than private loans and should be considered before exploring private loans.
Military tuition assistance
Scholarships are offered to eligible students currently serving in the military as well as military spouses. Strayer is also approved by Veterans Affairs to accept and process veteran education benefits. Learn more about Strayer’s active military assistance program here.
Veteran benefits
In addition to participating fully in the Yellow Ribbon Program, Strayer is approved by Veterans Affairs to accept and process veteran education benefits. Student veterans can receive transfer credit for military training and life experiences.
Criminal justice, crime and criminal behavior courses
The courses in this program cover topics such as the scientific method and criminal behavior, giving you an in-depth understanding of how criminal justice professionals work and ways to prevent or address crime. View all courses.
What is a minor in college?
A minor is a group of five courses in a select subject area that can add depth to your resume and round out your degree. Pursuing a minor offers you the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills in a secondary area of interest outside of your major and concentration.
How does a minor work?
Since you can use elective courses to complete a minor, in some cases you may not have to spend extra time or money on additional courses to complete your degree. Keep in mind that courses used to complete your major can’t be applied toward a minor.
Should you get a minor in college?
Getting a minor can help give you professional skills. It demonstrates your forward thinking, self-motivation and organization – all valuable skills in the workplace.
Sample courses
Examine the organization and practice of the Department of Homeland Security and the terrorist threats that dictate its operations. Topics include foundations of homeland security, terrorism, countermeasures and response to terrorist threats.
This course provides a broad range of topics relevant to criminal behavior and the development of the personality. Biological, psychological, and social structural factors which influence the possible origin of criminal behavior, as well as criminal justice and societal approaches for preventing crime, are addressed.
This course links research methods, application, and expertise in the field of psychology to the legal system. Students will be exposed to the field with a richer understanding in how forensic psychologists contribute to the legal system, including expert testimony, jury selection, insanity defenses, child custody hearings, and release and reentry of violent offenders.
This course examines various crime and delinquency prevention policies and programs. Topics covered include the historical development of crime and delinquency prevention methods, theoretical applications to prevention efforts, and research findings on program effectiveness. Students are exposed to the importance of research design in evaluating effective prevention strategies as well as the relationship between fear of crime and victimization. You have options: choose this course, or CRJ310 Law Enforcement Operations and Management.
This course addresses the use and abuse of drugs and alcohol, both legal and illegal; the etiology, social phenomena, psychological and physiological effects, and current relationship between gang activity and drugs, as well as organized crime and the drug epidemic in the United States and abroad. Students will also be exposed to the historical rise in popularity of gangs associated with the drug trade and the rise and fall of power of organized crime syndicates and drug distribution.
Being an effective communicator is an essential skill for any profession. In this course, you will learn the secrets to writing, listening, and speaking with credibility in order to share your voice with the world.
Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice admission requirements
Here’s what you’ll need to start the admission process for Strayer’s Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice program.
A completed application and enrollment agreement, as applicable
A diploma from an approved high school or its equivalent
Official copies of transcripts from all other colleges or universities attended
A valid, current and legible government-issued photo ID
Learn more about the admission process at Strayer. Students applying to Washington, D.C., or New Jersey campuses must provide proof of proper immunization.
Transferring to Strayer from another university?
Some or all of the credits you’ve earned may be transferable.
International bachelor's students
We welcome international students.
Campus locations
Come to a campus near you for guidance and support. You’ll have access to helpful resources, a supportive community and plenty of spaces to learn and grow.
Ready to take the next step?
Your admissions officer is here to guide you through every step of the process, from completing your application to choosing your concentration.