Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

The University of Phoenix online Associate of Arts with a concentration* in Criminal Justice program is designed to introduce students to many aspects of criminal justice, including criminal courts, security, corrections and policing. Using interactive learning techniques, the program addresses criminal justice theories, police department organization, the roles of court professionals, the management of correctional systems, juvenile delinquency and elements of private security. Students may have the opportunity to visit their local police department to observe policing processes. General courses and electives are also taken in the areas of communication arts, mathematics, social sciences, physical sciences and humanities.

What Are the Prerequisites?

While not required, previous courses in criminology can be beneficial. You should have an interest in working for the court system or a police department. Applicants to University of Phoenix programs should have a high school diploma or GED.

What Are the Course Requirements?

The completion of 60 credits is required to earn the University of Phoenix Associate of Arts degree with a concentration in Criminal Justice. This requirement includes 18 credits in the Criminal Justice area of concentration. Nine-week courses are taken in complementary pairs or blocks. Two tracks are available in this program. Track A is for students entering the program with 24 or more transfer credits, while the Track B curriculum is for those with less than 24 transfer credits. Track B students follow the University of Phoenix First-Year Sequence.

Criminal justice concentration courses

• CJS 200: Foundations of the Criminal Justice System
• CJS 210: Fundamentals of Policing
• CJS 220: Introduction to Criminal Court System
• CJS 230: Introduction to Corrections
• CJS 240: Introduction to Juvenile Justice
• CJS 250: Introduction to Security

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Advanced Degrees

Graduates of the Associate of Arts with a concentration in Criminal Justice program at University of Phoenix could pursue entry-level positions in the criminal justice field. Bachelor's degrees are available to graduates who might be required to obtain a 4-year degree or who simply wish to expand their knowledge in this area. Graduates could choose to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration or in Organizational Security and Management. Concentration areas in the Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration program include:

• Management
• Human Services
• Institutional Healthcare

*Maryland residents completing this program will earn an Associate of Arts with an emphasis in Criminal Justice.