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Study the justice system, law, and social impact while earning an affordable, flexible bachelor’s degree online.
Accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
The Criminal Justice specialization within the Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts program combines a broad interdisciplinary education with focused study of the justice system and its role in society.
Students explore how laws are created and enforced, how the court system operates, and how social, ethical, and political factors shape justice outcomes.
Because the program is grounded in the liberal arts, students also build strong skills in critical thinking, communication, and analysis—skills that are essential in legal, public service, and community-based careers.
Graduates leave with:
• A broad liberal arts foundation
• Knowledge of criminal justice systems and processes
• Transferable skills for public-facing and analytical roles
This degree prepares students to understand not just how the system works, but how it impacts individuals and communities.
Complete a simple application to get started.
Review your transfer credits and map out your degree plan.
Complete courses online at your own pace with no semesters or deadlines.
Built for the modern learner, we’ve reimagined higher education to focus on mastery rather than seat-time.
✓Competency-based learning
✓Fully online degree
✓Self-paced progress
✓Transfer up to 90 credits
Students focus on mastering material instead of managing schedules.
The Criminal Justice specialization fits within the Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts structure.
You must complete an Associate of Arts degree before beginning the BA core courses.
| Course Code | Course Name | Category | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal Justice Specialization | |||
| CJ 101 | Foundations of the American Criminal Justice System | Specialization | 3 |
| CJ 102 | Foundations of Criminology | Specialization | 3 |
| CJ 201 | Ethics in Law Enforcement | Specialization | 3 |
| CJ 202 | Foundations of Criminal Law | Specialization | 3 |
| CJ 203 | Foundations of Criminal Procedure | Specialization | 3 |
| Liberal Arts Core | |||
| LA 101 | Exploring the Liberal Arts | Core | 3 |
| LA 102 | Critical Reading & Writing | Core | 3 |
| LA 201 | Foundations of Arts & Humanities | Core | 3 |
| LA 202 | Foundations of Social Science | Core | 3 |
| LA 203 | Foundations of Natural Science | Core | 3 |
| Electives | |||
| EL 100 | Any Newlane Course not already counted for another category | Electives (30 cr) | Various |
A criminal justice-focused liberal arts degree supports a wide range of roles.
Careers in policing, corrections, and public safety organizations.
Work in legal support roles, court administration, or paralegal pathways.
Roles in local, state, or federal agencies focused on justice and policy.
Positions supporting rehabilitation, prevention programs, and community outreach.
Fully online • Self-paced • Transfer up to 90 credits
Earn an accredited bachelor’s degree while studying criminal justice on your schedule.
Accredited by DEAC • Recognized by CHEA & U.S. Department of Education