Earn Your Criminal Justice Degree Near Philadelphia

If you’re considering a future in law enforcement, courts, corrections, victim services, or criminal justice policymaking, earning your Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration at Alvernia University is a great place to start.

Here’s what you can expect to learn, how the program is structured, and why Alvernia is a great choice for students near Philadelphia.

Career-Building Curriculum

The program requires 48 credits in criminal justice courses, including:

Introduction to Criminal Justice
Criminology
Criminal Law
Corrections, Probation & Parole
Judicial Process & Procedures
Research Methods
Juvenile Justice
Writing for Criminal Justice Professionals
Ethics

Criminal Justice Administration students can tailor their degree by focusing on areas such as:

Law enforcement
Probation and parole
Corrections
Rehabilitation programs
Pretrial counseling
Victim services

This flexibility allows students to align their studies with their personal interests and career goals, whether that’s working on the front lines in policing or behind the scenes in public policy or victim advocacy.

Experienced Faculty

Our faculty includes professionals with extensive backgrounds in law enforcement, legal practice, the FBI, court systems, research, and security. Their expertise enriches the classroom, enabling students to grasp both the theory and practical applications of criminal justice. This close connection to the field provides valuable insights and mentorship.

Immersive Learning

One of the most impactful elements of the program is the senior-year practicum, which places students in real-world settings for 252 hours of field experience. Working with police departments, courts, probation offices, and victim service agencies, students apply academic knowledge in professional contexts. Through journals, portfolios, and presentations, they reflect on their development while building practical skills and career readiness.

Additionally, Alvernia’s strong regional partnerships support internship opportunities, including placements through The Washington Center in Washington, D.C. These internships enhance practical learning, expand professional networks, and cultivate leadership abilities. Many students transition from these experiences into full-time roles or graduate programs.

Supportive & Engaging Community

Alvernia’s main campus in Reading, PA, offers easy access to both urban and suburban justice systems, courts, and law enforcement agencies, providing an ideal setting for studying criminal justice administration.

On campus, students benefit from a supportive community that promotes academic and professional growth through organizations like the Criminal Justice Association, which fosters networking and career development, and Alpha Phi Sigma, the national honor society recognizing academic excellence and leadership.

Additionally, personalized academic advising and support are available to guide students in course selection and career planning. Tutoring includes help with writing, research, and test preparation to help students excel academically and stay on track.

Career Development & Opportunities

Students are prepared for diverse careers in the field. Graduates have gone on to work in various roles, including police officers, FBI agents, security analysts, court administrators, and victim advocates.

The Office of Career Development provides personalized support to help students and alumni explore careers, find jobs or internships, and prepare for graduate school. Services include career counseling, career assessments, résumé and interview help, access to job listings, and networking events.

Kickstart Your Career

If you want to earn your criminal justice degree near Philadelphia, Alvernia University offers expert faculty, immersive learning opportunities, specialized tracks, and strong ties to justice-focused agencies. You’ll be prepared for leadership roles in law enforcement, victim services, corrections, or advanced legal studies.