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Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

School of Justice Studies

College of Justice, Safety & Military Science

Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice

School of Justice Studies

College of Justice, Safety & Military Science

On-Campus & Online

Options

120 Credit Hours

to Graduate

On-Campus: $5,010 Per Semester

Online: $443 Per Credit Hour

(On-campus rate is for in-state students)

Free Books

for All Students

Study the Complexities of Crime and Systems of Social Control

Make a positive impact in your community

The need for trained professionals to navigate America’s complex and ever-changing criminal justice system is on the rise. EKU’s online criminal justice degree provides students with the leadership skills and theoretical, ethical, and practical approaches needed to successfully serve and protect their communities. Graduates are prepared to take on key positions in law enforcement, courts, social service agencies and corrections, or to pursue law school or other graduate studies.

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Career Outlook


The criminal justice system employs nearly two million people across the nation and offers a variety of career opportunities. These opportunities include corrections, law enforcement, the court system, probation and parole.

Criminal justice is a dynamic, multidisciplinary field of study that prepares students for a wide range of career options.

Job Titles Include:

  • Correctional officer
  • Victims advocate
  • Treatment specialist
  • Court administrator

Law enforcement careers are challenging and rewarding.

Employers Include:

  • Cincinnati / Northern Kentucky International Airport Police Department
  • Department of Juvenile Justice
  • Lake Cumberland Youth Development Center

The Office of Academic and Career Services is a one-stop shop for all your career and professional development needs.

Services Include:

  • Creating/updating your resume and cover letter
  • Interviewing tips and coaching
  • Career documents review
  • Job search

Why EKU?

  • Free textbooks through EKU BookSmart
  • No application fee
  • Reduced tuition for active-duty military members and their spouses
  • Learn from expert faculty members many of whom have authored widely adopted criminal justice textbooks
  • Work with faculty mentors on an independent study topic of your choice
    Excellent cooperative experience and internship opportunities
  • Dynamic, supportive learning environment
  • Law enforcement officers that have completed Kentucky’s DOCJT training can receive 9 hours of college credit

Attend Online

Choosing an online program doesn’t mean completing your education alone. EKU Online strives to provide students with unparalleled staff and faculty access, rich engagement opportunities and every resource possible to succeed. We are committed to helping you find success in your coursework, as well as identifying and pursuing employment opportunities upon graduation. We are here to help you every step of the way.

Online students have access to:

  • Accelerated 8-week terms
  • Courses begin 6 times per year
  • No campus visits required
  • Personal advisors stay with you from application to graduation
  • Free online tutoring and career services assistance 

Curriculum & Admission


EKU provides a range of courses in justice studies including courses in general criminal justice, policing, corrections, law, juvenile justice, and social justice designed to prepare students for employment in the fields of criminal justice, social services, and social advocacy.

A minimum of 120 credits are required to graduate.

View the degree requirements:

Please review the admissions requirements before applying for this or any program. If you have questions about the program or are planning to register for classes, please speak to the program advisor.

Students may transfer up to 90 hours of credit from accredited institutions. Please note that a minimum of 30 credit hours in this degree program must be completed at Eastern Kentucky University.

Previously earned credits must be reviewed upon admission to EKU for appropriate articulation.

On-Campus Deadlines
Online Deadlines

All applicants must provide an application and evidence of appropriate scholastic achievement through prior educational experience.

Please note that certain degree programs have special admission requirements. Admission to the University does not mean automatic admission to all degree programs.

The completed application and all required supporting documentation must be received by the University no later than:

• August 1 for fall enrollment
• December 1 for spring enrollment
• May 1 for summer enrollment

To apply for undergraduate admission to Eastern Kentucky University (EKU), submit an application at apply.eku.edu and submit any required materials electronically or by mail to:

Office of Admissions
Eastern Kentucky University
Whitlock Bldg. 112, CPO 54
521 Lancaster Avenue
Richmond, KY 40475-3154.

Enrolling & Advising Information


EKU’s College of Justice, Safety, and Military Science is committed to delivering high-quality enrollment and academic advising for our students. We strive to create an atmosphere of mutual trust and meaningful engagement to help students reach their academic goals and have a rewarding educational experience.

Interested in enrolling? Reach out to the college enrollment counselor for your preferred program.

professional photo of Jacinda Bertie-Cockerham

Jacinda Bertie-Cockerham

College Enrollment Counselor

859-622-6520
jacinda.bertie@eku.edu

professional photo of jacob mobley

Jacob Mobley

Online Enrollment Advisor

859-622-2877
Jacob.Mobley@eku.edu

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Contact Information

School of Justice Studies

Stratton Building
Room 467
4453 Kit Carson Drive
Richmond, KY 40475

859-622-1978
jus.dean@eku.edu