Online
Program Available
Associate
Program Type
Total Credits
60
Affordability
Private School Education At State School Prices
Why Study Criminal Justice Administration?
A criminal justice degree provides a transformative, career-focused education in foundational knowledge in areas such as criminal law and procedure, the basis of all training for careers in the criminal justice field. The associate degree program prepares students to make an impact in a wide range of careers beyond law enforcement, including probation, corrections, security, and even mental health and addiction recovery. Graduates are equipped to make an impact when they begin working in the field after completing the academy or basic training, opening the door to over 100 different career paths in criminal justice. An Associate of Science in Criminal Justice Administration also fulfills most foundational requirements for those planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree aligned with their career goals.
What You’ll Learn
- The online criminal justice associate degree examines the structure and function of the U.S. criminal justice system, providing insight into how law enforcement, courts, and corrections collaborate to administer justice. Comparisons with international justice systems and the growing influence of private sector involvement are also discussed.
- The criminal justice associate degree covers the foundations of criminal law, including key concepts such as criminal responsibility, legal defenses, and the role of evidence. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of how laws are applied and enforced within the justice process.
- You will also get a holistic education in why crime happens and how society responds to it through an examination of crime causation theories and patterns of criminal behavior. This knowledge is essential for making an impact through developing effective crime prevention and intervention strategies.
- A closer examination of the juvenile justice system introduces you to its distinctive approach, procedures, and current challenges. You’ll learn how this system differs from adult justice and how it addresses the needs of youth offenders.
- Through courses on law enforcement, corrections, security, and criminal investigation, the associate in criminal justice online program provides real learning for the real world with practical knowledge of the procedures and tools used to protect communities and uphold the law. Park’s criminal justice program emphasizes modern policing, alternatives to incarceration, investigative techniques, and the fundamentals of security and risk management.
Loading…
Tuition & Fees
Park University offers a transparent and student-focused approach to tuition and financial aid. Our tuition structure is designed to be competitive and manageable, and our financial aid counselors are available to guide you through every step of the process. From understanding your cost breakdown to exploring funding options, we ensure that financial planning is clear, personalized, and aligned with your educational journey.
Admission Requirements
To begin your journey toward an associate degree at Park University, you’ll need a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the university’s general undergraduate admission standards. Associate programs require at least 60 credit hours, including general education and major-specific courses. To graduate, you’ll need to maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA and complete at least 15 credit hours at Park to meet the residency requirements, 9 of which must be earned in the major core. Whether you’re preparing for a career or planning to continue your education, our associate degrees offer a flexible and supportive foundation.
Visit Admissions Policies and Procedures to learn more about admission requirements at Park University.
Criminal Justice Administration Career & Future Opportunities
1 /
*General salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education and opportunities for employment that are outside of Park University’s Control. The labor market and average salary range can be explored further at the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics.
FAQs: Criminal Justice Administration, A.S.
Yes. Students who complete the criminal justice associate degree can seamlessly transfer credits into Park’s bachelor’s degree programs, including the BS in Criminal Justice Administration or the Bachelor of Public Administration with a concentration in criminal justice. This pathway allows students the flexibility they need to build on their associate degree and pursue advanced roles in the criminal justice system as part of their real life.
Yes. Park University’s AS in Criminal Justice Administration introduces students to emerging areas like cybercrime and digital evidence handling. These foundational topics prepare students for modern law enforcement environments where technology plays a critical role in investigations and public safety operations.
Absolutely. The online associate degree program’s flexible format and focus on public service make it a strong match for active-duty military and veterans. Park University also offers credit for military training and experience, enabling service members to accelerate their path toward a degree in criminal justice administration.
Park University’s criminal justice associate degree is designed to strengthen foundational knowledge for professionals in roles like dispatch, corrections, and campus security. The curriculum emphasizes criminal law, ethics, and operations of the justice system providing the academic credentials and critical thinking skills needed to transition into supervisory or specialized positions within public safety agencies.
Ready To Take The Next Step?
Class Start Dates: Term Dates