Online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration (BA)

The demand for well-trained criminal justice professionals is growing as communities face challenges ranging from cybercrime and drug crises to rehabilitation and reentry programs. Alvernia University’s Online Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration (BA) is designed for motivated learners who want to make a difference in their communities.

A Flexible and Accessible Degree Path

Designed for working professionals and adult learners, the online Criminal Justice Administration program at Alvernia offers the flexibility of fully virtual courses delivered in 7-week modules. Students can balance academic goals with personal and professional responsibilities while progressing at their own pace.

Program Overview

Length: 2–4 years, depending on transfer credits
Credits Required: 123
Transfer Credits: Up to 75 accepted
Cost per Credit: $650 (with tuition discounts available)

What You’ll Learn

The program introduces students to the core principles and practices of the field. Courses explore how the justice system functions as an interconnected whole, theories of crime, and the impact of gender and race. Students examine corrections, judicial procedures, and juvenile justice, alongside ethical standards and crisis management strategies.

The curriculum covers topics such as:

Law enforcement and investigation
Probation, parole, and corrections systems
Victim advocacy and pretrial counseling
Community rehabilitation programs
Security and crime prevention strategies

Courses are taught by professors who bring years of professional practice in areas such as law enforcement, the courts, security, corrections, research, and the FBI. Graduates emerge with the ability to evaluate evidence, manage teams, communicate effectively, and apply ethical frameworks to decision-making.

Career Opportunities

Earning a criminal justice degree online opens the door to a variety of career paths, including:

Police Officer or Detective – Serving local and state communities.
Corrections Officer – Supporting rehabilitation and security in correctional facilities.
Probation or Parole Officer – Guiding individuals through reintegration into society.
Victim Services Specialist – Providing advocacy and resources to victims of crime.
Security Specialist or Investigator – Safeguarding private organizations and public spaces.

In addition to entering the workforce, Alvernia graduates are well-prepared to continue their education in graduate programs, including law school, public administration, or criminology, for those who want to advance their expertise even further.

The Alvernia Advantage

Alvernia combines the flexibility of online learning with the personalized support of a private university. Advisors help online students with course planning, understanding degree requirements, and staying on track for graduation, often through virtual appointments, email, or phone calls.

Career services are also available remotely, offering résumé reviews, mock interviews, job search tools like Handshake, and virtual networking or employer events. This ensures that even at a distance, students receive the same level of support and guidance as those on campus.

Alvernia also emphasizes the importance of community and networking. Even in an online environment, criminal justice students engage in meaningful collaboration. Through virtual discussions, guest speaker events, and optional service projects, students build strong professional networks. Many participate in community initiatives, like supporting victim advocacy groups or justice reform organizations, gaining experiences that translate directly to their careers.

Ready to Get Started?

If you are ready to advance your career or enter the criminal justice field, the online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Criminal Justice Administration at Alvernia University provides the skills, values, and leadership preparation you need. Whether your passion lies in law enforcement, victim advocacy, corrections, or security, Alvernia offers the flexibility and quality education to help you achieve your goals.